Cedar Rock State Park - Frank Lloyd Wright designed Walter Estate — Attraction in Independence

This was very interesting. Very historical but not in a boring way. When you see a Frank Lloyd Wright house in a picture it looks amazing, but when you actually tour one it's so much more real. I dreamed of owning such a home, but now that I've toured one, it makes me appreciate what I already have. To think these homes are so coveted and all I can think as I am touring this one is Geez! This is so inconvenient, uncomfortable, and impractical. To say that FLW valued style over function is putting it mildly. I have learned that I no longer covet his homes. A definite lesson in the grass is always greener. Maybe I would have liked the older style instead of the designs after his mistress was murdered. But until I could tour one of those, I count myself lucky right where I am. And maybe that is just as well. Interesting to think about anyway, and the fact the tour is...

Our last stop on our way back to MN and we totally enjoyed it. This was our first Frank Lloyd Wright designed home that we have toured. While we waited for our tour, we checked out the family’s boat and motor. It was like nothing we have ever seen before. Our tour guide Nathan was the very knowledgeable. There wasn’t a question he didn’t answer including ones that didn’t directly pertain to the home. He played the piano for us and it was just marvelous. The ideas that Frank Lloyd Wright included into the home were amazing. We were surprised at the number of patents that he held. The bathroom was very interesting and a real space saver. Our favorite tidbit was that the homeowners left money in their will so the gas station close by could hand out full size candy bars like they used to do...

This park is about the Frank Lloyd Wright house, and they do a good job of putting the house in context and telling the story of the property.

You really need to see the house to understand it. Pictures alone won't do it. It is both conspicuous and the antithesis to conspicuous consumption. The house is both expansive and very frugal with space. Wright's attention to detail is evident everywhere. The use of hardwood for interior surfaces and furnishings is rich.

An astute person could probably spot many design patterns and geometric forms. Even as a passive observer I did spot a few. The surrounding property, the lake and the boathouse make for an impressive residence.

The property is a small treasure, and the state park and their staff make the visit...