Stetson Mansion, Florida, United States

5PeterButzin 5:00 PM Apr 13, 2022

Best alternative to all the central Florida theme parks.
J.T. and Michael, the mansions owners and restorers are to be congratulated for their careful restoration and updating of this richly historical property. I knew nothing about John B. Stetson's 20 years of "wintering" in Deland, although I had a clew in the 1990's when our family visited Stetson University as a possible "college landing" for our elder daughter. (She decided on Eckerd College, but Stetson has a recognized liberal arts program and a lovely campus.) I particularly appreciated our visit because (1) I have advanced degrees in American History; (2) I'm a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation; and (3) I'm an avid woodworker, who appreciates fine moldings, unique, custom hardwood floors and hand-made window, frames, latices, leading and stained glass. We purchased Michael Solari's book about Stetson, the mansion and the renovation in the "schoolhouse", which ends the tour. This brief, easily readable book includes lots of "before & after" pictures. It also makes it clear, even in 2014, when the first edition was published, that the owners would like to sell the property to a worthy buyer. (A particularly strong pitch is made that Stetson University could make this into a profit center.) If I were younger, and wealthy, I'd be happy to make an offer. My hope that the property will continue to be preserved as a part of late 19th century history. What was the nature of our visit? We spent a "multi-generational" week near Disney and Universal. Our children's and grandchildren's generations spent their days at the theme parks: which, at 77 years old, I see as little more than very expensive opportunities to stand in line for hours. Not for us. So, I Googled "historic homes in Central Florida" which provided links to the Stetson and Howey mansions. Alas, we couldn't squeeze in the Howey mansion, which will await our next visit. But I was intrigued with the Stetson Mansion's website, and we couldn't have been more pleased with our visit. We've lived in Tallahassee since 1973. Although we've traveled most of the state, we were unfamiliar with the Stetson Mansion, which is a gem, well worth visiting. Oh, and a shout out to JoAnne, our tour guide. She was entertaining, well-informed and vivacious. My understanding is that one of the owners, J.T., also provides guided tours. Although this would have been a special treat, JoAnne presented herself, enthusiastically, as almost part of the family.

5Pauline Z 5:00 PM Jun 3, 2022

MUST SEE, FLORIDA HISTORY
A MUST SEE. This is a private home and full time residence of those who painstakingly, lovingly, restored it to it's former glory, and as you will be told "as if the Stetson family still lived there". As such, there are modern amenities but the detail paid to restoration of architecture and furnishings and preservation of historical points such as Edison's fuse panel will quickly override your senses and you will not conscientiously notice most of them. Even the schoolhouse is an amazing piece of architecture. Once the tour begins (recommend the full, not partial) you will find yourself immersed in a time and culture in history so amazing you will almost feel the presence of the Stetson family and their famous visitors. My son graduates high school next May and wants to become an architect, which is what drew us to the mansion, in addition to his love of all things western and Stetson attire. The architecture is absolutely amazing and the floors are awe inspiring as is the dental work on the ceilings. To think each piece was hand made and installed or laid is unfathomable in today's age of construction. Purchase both books written by the owners about themselves and the restoration to wrap up an amazing day. We left with two desires - to meet the owners in person (and for my son, to talk architecture with Michael) and wondering what time the elegant lawn party started. (Oh, make that three - we wanted to stay overnight a few days....). Tickets are a bit expensive but worth the experience, and guides are extremely engaging and knowledgeable. We will definitely visit again, perhaps for what we have been told is a spectacular Christmas presentation. Remember on your visit, you are not going to a museum (they will tell you this too), but a living example of history, Florida history, and the home of two very amazing people. What a great experience! Thank you J.T., Michael, and JoAnn.