H.H. Fitzgerald (specifically Howard H. Fitzgerald) was a prominent figure in Michigan journalism during the early to mid-20th century. He is most notably recognized as the publisher of The Pontiac Press (now The Oakland Press) and played a foundational role in the growth of daily newspapers in the state.
Here is a breakdown of his career and impact:
H.H. Fitzgerald & The "Butterball Mansion" Timeline
1890s – Early 1900s: The Foundation Fitzgerald begins his career in the newspaper industry on the west side of the state. He serves as the business manager for the Grand Rapids Press. During this time, he is a rising professional, but not yet the owner of a major media empire.
1911 – 1914: Becoming a Publisher He transitions from employee to owner, acquiring interests in several Michigan newspapers, including the St. Johns News and The Flint Journal.
1914: The Big Move to Pontiac Fitzgerald leads a syndicate to purchase the Pontiac Press Gazette. This becomes his primary business focus. As the automotive industry (General Motors) booms in Pontiac, the newspaper becomes immensely profitable, turning Fitzgerald into a wealthy "media baron."
1927 – 1928: Building 750 Plymouth Ave SE Now wealthy and established, Fitzgerald returns to his "home" city of Grand Rapids to build a trophy estate. He commissions the 10,000-square-foot mansion at 750 Plymouth Ave SE.
Status: He builds this house to live among the city's elite (neighbors like the Blodgetts) while still overseeing his newspapers in Pontiac and Flint.
Architecture: The house is a grand Italian Renaissance/Tudor Revival design.
1930s – 1940s: The Later Years Fitzgerald maintains his presence in both cities but eventually shifts his focus and residence toward Pontiac to be closer to the daily operations of The Pontiac Press. He builds a separate large Tudor mansion on Ottawa Street in Pontiac (which was a local landmark until it burned down in 2020).
1950s: The "Butterball" Transition The Fitzgerald family eventually sells the 750 Plymouth estate. It is purchased by Leo Peters, the founder of Butterball Farms.
Because the Peters family owned and occupied the home for over 60 years, it became known to modern Grand Rapids residents as the "Butterball Mansion."
