A Property Steeped in Legacy, Built for Celebration

The first recorded owners of The Maples Estate were John Bates Grant (1845–1906) and his wife, Augustus Kingsley, who married in 1870. Of Scottish descent, Grant’s early career began in education, where he taught school for three years before pursuing law. His legal career flourished as he formed a partnership with State Senator Hobard Krum, a respected public official and businessman, gaining influence in politics, commerce, and local development.

But Grant was much more than just an attorney—he was a man of the land, an agricultural enthusiast, and a dedicated community leader. He owned several farms throughout Schoharie County, fostering innovation in local farming and dairy production. His leadership extended beyond agriculture, serving as Director of the Schoharie County Bank, President of the Schoharie Creamery Association, Treasurer of the Schoharie County Historical Society, and Chairman of the Board of Supervisors of Schoharie County. His business acumen and civic engagement helped shape the economic and cultural landscape of the region, making The Maples Estate a cornerstone of local history.

Grant was also a world traveler, deeply fascinated by history and culture. In the late 1800s, he embarked on several international expeditions, exploring England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, as well as Egypt, the Holy Land, and various locations across Europe, Asia, and Africa. These experiences broadened his perspective, reinforcing his belief in the importance of heritage, storytelling, and the preservation of meaningful spaces.

His legacy of connection, curiosity, and hospitality is woven into the very fabric of The Maples Estate. Just as Grant gathered thinkers, farmers, and leaders at the estate in its early days, today it remains a place of celebration, creativity, and community—where couples and their loved ones come together to create their own unforgettable memories.

The second owner of The Maples Estate, Don Cameron Shafer (1881–1975), was a renowned author, lecturer, and historian, known for his deep fascination with early American life and the rich history of the Schoharie Valley. Best remembered for his historical novel, Smokefires in Schoharie (1938), Shafer wove a vivid tale of survival, identity, and conflict, chronicling an Indian raid on a small village in the Catskill foothills through the eyes of one of his own ancestors—a Palatine settler navigating the complexities of Native American relations and Revolutionary-era politics. His work was celebrated for its thoughtful treatment of indigenous communities, early German settlers, and Loyalist struggles, capturing the spirit of the region he called home.

Before dedicating himself fully to writing, Shafer worked as the advertising manager for General Electric Company in the 1920s, where he honed his storytelling abilities in a corporate setting. His love for writing eventually led him to national newspapers and magazines, where he built an impressive career publishing over 200 works by 1940. His expertise extended beyond fiction—his 1914 publication, Harper’s Every-day Electricity: How to Make and Use Familiar Electrical Apparatus, reflected his curiosity and technical knowledge, making complex electrical concepts accessible to everyday readers. Later, he became the editor of ‘Scoop,’ a military depot publication, further solidifying his role as a storyteller and historical documentarian.

But Shafer wasn’t just a writer—he was a passionate host, historian, and community leader. Elected Schoharie County Clerk in 1925, he opened the doors of The Maples Estate to scholars, historians, and writers, transforming the farmhouse into a literary salon and gathering place. The estate became a setting for spirited discussions, historical research, and social gatherings, much like the intimate and meaningful celebrations that take place here today.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Shafer was an innovator, too—always drawn to progress while preserving the past. A fun bit of local history? He was the first person in the region to own an electric lawn mower, bringing a touch of modern convenience to a home steeped in tradition.

Today, The Maples Estate continues Shafer’s legacy of storytelling, hospitality, and creative inspiration. Just as he welcomed thinkers and dreamers into his home, the estate now serves as the perfect place for couples to craft their own love story—surrounded by history, beauty, and meaningful connections.

In the mid-20th century, Edwin ‘Wynn’ Kintz (1940–2021) and his wife became the third owners of The Maples Estate, purchasing the historic property from author Don Cameron Shafer. With a deep love for history and preservation, the Kintz family undertook a meticulous, historically accurate restoration of the farmhouse, ensuring that the estate’s original charm and architectural details remained intact. Their passion for authenticity helped maintain The Maples Estate as a timeless retreat, blending historic grandeur with modern functionality—a spirit that continues to define the venue today.

Wynn’s career spanned both military service and business innovation. He served in the U.S. Navy for three years as a Supply Officer, earning an honorable discharge in 1966 before returning to Schoharie to join his family’s plastics business, Harva Plastics—a company that still operates today. With an entrepreneurial drive, he later founded Kintz Plastics Inc. in 1976, an advanced manufacturing business in Howes Cave, NY, which quickly became known for its precision-engineered plastic components.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Wynn was a passionate historian and avid collector of political Americana, with a particular focus on the American presidency. His expertise and vast personal collection played a pivotal role in shaping the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Exhibit at Federal Hall in 2009, where many of the artifacts on display came directly from his private collection. His love of storytelling, historical preservation, and curation made him an invaluable contributor to public history projects—a legacy that mirrors the estate’s ongoing commitment to meaningful, story-driven experiences.

Wynn’s interests extended beyond history and business—he was also a New York State boxing judge, officiating some of the most legendary fights in boxing history. He was ringside for Mike Tyson’s first six fights, as well as Evander Holyfield’s final fight at Madison Square Garden. His ability to balance historical reverence with modern excitement is something that still resonates at The Maples Estate, where couples blend tradition with their own unique, dynamic celebrations.

Through his dedication to historical integrity, love of storytelling, and commitment to preservation, Wynn ensured that The Maples Estate remained a place where history is honored and new stories are created. Today, his influence lives on in the carefully restored farmhouse, where every detail—just like every wedding—feels like a seamless blend of past and present, tradition and personal expression.

In the late 20th century, John and Sue Anne Wilkinson (1948–2007) became the next dedicated stewards of The Maples Estate, breathing new life into the historic property through their passion for hospitality, community, and the arts. Under their care, The Maples evolved into a welcoming retreat, as they transformed part of the farmhouse into The Maples Bed and Breakfast, offering guests the opportunity to experience the charm and history of the estate firsthand.

Sue Anne, a nurse by profession, had an innate gift for hospitality and culinary arts. In addition to managing the day-to-day operations of the bed and breakfast, she also co-owned a catering company, further enhancing the estate’s reputation as a warm and inviting place for gatherings. Her expertise in hosting and creating memorable experiences contributed to the estate’s longstanding tradition of bringing people together—a value that continues to define wedding weekends at The Maples Estate today.

John, a retired engineer and renowned local folk artist, had a deep appreciation for history, storytelling, and craftsmanship. His love for the Schoharie Valley’s rich past inspired his book, Images of America: The Schoharie Valley, a visual and historical documentation of the region. His contributions as a member of the Schoharie Colonial Heritage Association, Schoharie Valley Association, and Schoharie County Historical Society further cemented his role as a preserver of local heritage.

The Wilkinsons didn’t just maintain the estate—they expanded its role as a cultural hub for artists and creatives. They opened the barn onsite to local makers and antique dealers, creating a space where history and craftsmanship could thrive. Their commitment to supporting artisans, celebrating heritage, and cultivating a sense of place made The Maples Estate more than just a home—it became a destination for meaningful connections and creative expression.

Today, The Maples Estate continues in the Wilkinsons’ spirit of thoughtful hospitality and artistic inspiration. Their legacy lives on in the estate’s commitment to intimate gatherings, creative storytelling, and personalized wedding experiences—where every couple has the opportunity to make history of their own.

In 2018, we fell in love with The Maples Estate and knew it was the perfect place to create immersive, nontraditional wedding experiences. We purchased the property from the Roselli family, who had lovingly cared for the estate while serving as teachers at the local central school. Their dedication to education and community resonated deeply with us, inspiring us to carry on the tradition of making The Maples a place of connection, celebration, and shared stories.

With backgrounds in event production, design, and hospitality, we’ve reimagined the estate as a private retreat for couples who want to celebrate their love in a way that is thoughtful, experience-driven, and completely unique to them.

We’ve preserved its rich history while seamlessly blending modern touches, curated design elements, and expert planning support, allowing you to craft a personalized, immersive wedding weekend—one that reflects your story, style, and love for bringing people together. At The Maples Estate, every wedding is a new chapter, written with intention, creativity, and deep meaning—just as it should be.

• ‘Souvenir of Schoharie, 1904”

• A newspaper clipping regarding the sale of the estate between Don Cameron Shafer and Mr. and Mrs. Kintz, date unknown

• A database of newspaper articles

• A website regarding Mr. Shafer’s novels.

• Images of Schoharie River provided by NY Gen Web

• An obituary for Winn Kintz

• An obituary for Sue Anne Wilkinson

• Archadia Publishing Author Bio