A wall with three framed items: a small frame left, a larger framed map in the center, and another framed piece on the right, all hung above a wooden ledge.

Vanderpoel Bar

Named for the original builder and owner of Dawn Manor, the Vanderpoel Bar serves craft cocktails, fine wines, and beer.

Old black-and-white portrait of a stern man in a dark military coat, framed, with a plaque underneath in a gold ornate frame.

Vanderpoel Bar Room Features

  • Seats 20 guests at multiple tables and bar
  • Located on the main level
  • Available for private events or group reservations

Historic Art and Displays

A cozy corner with a tufted red leather booth, warm wooden wall paneling, a hanging lamp, and two vintage black-and-white framed portraits on the wall.

Dawn Manor's First Owners

The Vanderpoel Bar features a beautiful George Raab original of a crystal pitcher and glasses, and vignettes of the first Dawn Manor owners and residents, Christina and Abraham Vanderpoel.

Stone carved statues of crouching humanoid figures beside a white building; one larger in front, another smaller behind, outdoors.
Two framed vintage maps hung on a white wall above a wooden mantle.

Chicago Stones of Dawn Manor

Several framed displays near the lobby honor former owner William J. Newman, a Chicago contractor who brought historic stone statuary from landmarks like Midway Gardens and the Chicago Board of Trade to the Dells, showcasing their original grandeur.

A gallery wall with framed black-and-white portraits along a light textured wall, each with a small bronze plaque beneath.

The Wall of Honor

In the hallway directly across from the Vanderpoel Bar, you will find detailed plaques and photos of Dawn Manor owners and famous visitors on the Wall of Honor. Take time to read about these remarkable people who are a key part of the mansion's history.

Another piece in this area specifically commemorates actress Agnes Moorehead and her frequent visits to Dawn Manor for tea with Helen Raab. The Mooreheads spent much of their life in nearby Reedsburg.

A wall with three framed prints/map art: a small frame left, a larger center map, and another print on the right, above a wooden shelf.

Historic Development

The large Delton Township map from 1936, located here and in the lower-level hallway near the staircase, commemorates the grand plan of William J. Newman to develop the 2000 acre "Dawn Manor Resort" stretching from Lake Delton, built by Newman and excavator Ralph Hines, to the current location of the mansion here on Mirror Lake.