In 1903 Benjamin Purnell, who claimed to be a prophet of God, founded the House of David commune in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Members of the commune had to swear off all human vices…drinking, gambling, sex (a vice?), swearing, etc. The men, in order to appear Christ-like, had to let their hair and beards grow. They did, however, have fun. They built an amusement park and started a zoo. The public came in droves to see these strange people. Their commune was called Eden Springs. They were best known for their baseball team. Despite their odd appearance with flowing locks and beards, the House of David nine were very good.
From 1914 into the early 1950’s the House of David baseball team toured the Midwest, East Coast and South playing any and all comers. Wearing fake beards, baseball greats and Hall of Famers Grover Cleveland Alexander, Satchel Paige and Babe Ruth played for the House of David.
During the 1930’s the House of David played in the Denver Post Tournament, winning it three times. It was the only baseball tournament of its day that had no color barrier. The best semi-pro teams in the country came to vie for the $7,500 winning purse.
As their popularity grew they developed ‘Harlem Globetrotteresque’ routines.
Even though I knew of the House of David baseball nine from Ken Burns documentary on baseball, I did not connect them with the Eden Springs RV Park we booked in Benton Harbor. We ended up camping on their old ball field now an RV park.
House of David Amusement Park entrance.
Ruins of some of the House of David buildings.
We were camped 100 feet from here.
Peace…Wanderers in Wonder.
Wanderers in Wonder 
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