William E. Upjohn

Upjohn bought a 40-acre (160,000 m2) farm in 1895 that would eventually become the Brook Lodge Hotel & Conference Resort in Augusta, Michigan.

During the time that the creamery was being converted to family living quarters, Dr. Upjohn erected a combination garage and guest house where the Conference Hall now stands.

The original landscaping of Brook Lodge included a swimming pool, tennis court, and walking paths.

According to varying reports, Dr. Upjohn grew from 400 to 675 varieties of peonies, 40 acres (160,000 m2) of red, white and pink blossoms.

The original carpet in the Dining Hall has since been replaced with a custom design incorporating Upjohn’s peonies.

In 1967, a Japanese guest who was particularly pleased with his stay at Brook Lodge, sent an authentic temple lantern as a token of his appreciation.

With the help of a Japanese architect who insisted that every element "feel right" in order to "look right," the temple garden came to life.