Brackett’s Point: Lake Minnetonka Real Estate™

A shoreline steeped in legacy, design, and distinction.

A Historic Peninsula Between Browns Bay and Smiths Bay

Brackett’s Point is one of Lake Minnetonka’s most iconic landforms — a private peninsula reaching between the calm waters of Browns Bay and the morning sunrises of Smiths Bay. Its story predates even the lake’s name.

In the early 1850s, a reclusive frontiersman — a skilled trapper known simply for his respectful way of life — settled here in solitude. Though his name was never recorded, the memory of his quiet passing gave rise to the early moniker Starvation Point. Later, the land became known as Promontory Point and, briefly, Printer’s Point before finding its enduring name.

George Augustus Brackett and the Naming of Orono Point

In 1880, George Augustus Brackett — former Mayor of Minneapolis and influential flour industry pioneer — purchased the entire point from vineyard owner Nathan Stubbs. He named it Orono Point, honoring his Maine hometown, and built a distinguished summer home for his growing family. It was here that Brackett launched his sailboat Ida, became the first Commodore of the Minnetonka Yacht Club, and helped anchor the social and nautical life of the lake.

The Dunwoody Era and the Estate Called Pennhurst

A decade later, Brackett sold part of the point to another Twin Cities titan: William Hood Dunwoody. Known for his role in forming Washburn Crosby (the forerunner to General Mills) and his philanthropy throughout Minneapolis, Dunwoody built an elegant summer home called Pennhurst, defined by its sweeping lake views and architectural grace.

Southways: A Lake Minnetonka Legacy Estate

In the early 20th century, John Sargent Pillsbury, grandson of Minnesota’s 8th Governor and co-heir to the Pillsbury Company, purchased the Pennhurst estate and transformed it into Southways — one of the most revered homes on Lake Minnetonka.

Designed by New York architect Harrie T. Lindberg, Southways was crafted from reclaimed brick and crowned with a custom slate roof meant to reflect the hues of lake, sky, and forest. The estate sat on over 13 acres with more than 1,700 feet of shoreline and remained in the Pillsbury family for over 70 years. It was known for its lush formal gardens, elegant fountains, and a boathouse that felt like a second home.

Lake Access and Real Estate on Brackett’s Point Today

Today, Brackett’s Point is one of the most exclusive and discreet locations for luxury real estate on Lake Minnetonka. With homes offering private lake access, deep water docks, sweeping views of Browns Bay and Smiths Bay, and proximity to Wayzata, the point combines privacy with prestige.

Real estate here rarely comes to market. Many homes are passed from generation to generation, and off-market opportunities are shared only within trusted networks.

Explore Homes for Sale or Prepare to Sell on Brackett’s Point

Whether you’re looking to buy quietly or preparing to sell with complete discretion, representation matters. We provide early access to buyers and strategic guidance to sellers — always rooted in trust, timing, and legacy.

Lake Access. One Relationship at a Time.