3954 N Ellamae Road Oakland MI 48363 MLS #20261041689

Historic Walter Reuther Estate—a rare opportunity to own two separate 3BR/2BA homes on approximately two private acres with nearly 1,000 feet of frontage along the crystal-clear waters of Paint Creek. Offering exceptional flexibility for multigenerational living, guests, rental income, a private office, artist retreat, or wellness retreat, this extraordinary property combines architectural significance, natural beauty, and American history.
At the heart of the estate stands one of Michigan’s rare authentic Mid-Century Modern homes. Originally built as a cabin in 1912 and expanded in the early 1950s as the private retreat of Walter Reuther—president of the UAW and civil rights advocate—the home features walls of glass, original stonework, custom built-ins, Walter Reuther’s private office, bullet-resistant windows, an original milk delivery cubby, and a distinctive rain channel that transforms rainfall into a soothing natural soundtrack.
The second residence, originally built to host visiting diplomats and world leaders during peace negotiations, offers approximately 1,500 SF of additional living space with dramatic 12-foot floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Paint Creek.
The grounds feature a private swimming hole, an orchard with apple, peach, pear, plum, and cherry trees, blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry plantings, a thriving organic garden with twelve cedar raised beds, a koi pond, firepit gathering areas, New York bluestone walkways, and a Japanese arboretum honoring the estate’s original gardens. Direct access to the Paint Creek Trail further enhances this remarkable setting.
Extensive updates include major mechanical systems, water systems, air conditioning, appliances, and roofing. A private sanctuary, architectural treasure, and irreplaceable piece of Michigan history