It seems like something out of a movie. A story of what seemed like a fairy tale marriage, but all was not as it appeared when it was revealed that their new son-in-law had ulterior motives for marrying his lovely bride. Motives that resulted in an almost perfect crime had it not been for some meddling kids.
The poisoning deaths of John and Hannah Peck, one of Grand Rapids’ wealthiest families, back in 1916 garnered national attention for the devious scheme surrounding their deaths. Buckle in as we learn the story behind Peck Mansion, one of GR’s most infamous buildings.
*Much of this information comes from US Ghost Adventures, Grand River Realty, and Metro Times. If you seek more information on this story, please visit these sites.
The Peck Family
Back in the early 1900s, the Peck family (John, Hannah, daughters Catherine and Clara, and son Percy) was one of Grand Rapids’ wealthier families after creating a successful chain of drug stores around West Michigan. They built the still-standing Peck Mansion in 1887, a 6,500+ sqft mansion that once had the largest ballroom and living room in Grand Rapids.
Peck Drugstore, pictured right. / Grand Rapids City Clerk’s Office , “Monroe Avenue Looking Northwest from Division Avenue,” City of Grand Rapids Archives and Records Center…