The original Lodge was built in 1939-1941.

History

LaSalle Manor Retreat center was built between 1939 and 1941 by local businessman Frank Ryan as a wedding present for his wife. Pleasant Valley Farm was built in the south west corner of 350 acres of property with access from Galena Road. The design for the log lodge was based on a building Mr. Ryan had seen in his travels in Europe. Sixty four railroad cars of logs came from northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Mr. And Mrs. Ryan used the lodge as their home with their two daughters. Local residents still comment how they came to Pleasant Valley Farm for meetings, parties, and business.

The De La Salle Christian Brothers purchased the property from the Ryans in 1958. It was purchased by the four schools the Brothers ran in Chicago at the time, and was under the control of St. Mel High School. Originally homerooms of 40 boys would come out for silent retreats during the week. They slept in bunk beds on the balcony. The Brothers, themselves, used the facility on weekends for recreation.

The dormitory wing and chapel were added in 1960.

In 1960, the dormitory wing was added. It was built with individual rooms for 50 boys. The other rooms were intended for chaparones, offices, etc. A large chapel was also added at this time. The lake was added later, along with the tennis courts, swimming pool, volleyball court, playing fields, and hiking trails. Eventually some of the property was sold. The Manor now has 47 acres.

The original vision of the Brothers and their founder, St. John Baptist De La Salle, is still alive today. The Manor is a place for people of all ages, especially high school students, to find themselves and God through nature. The manor hosts over 45 high school retreats a year and is available for many groups to use on weekends and in the summer. Over 5000 people use the Center each year.