Swedish immigrant and horticulturist, Axel Hallstrom, moved from Minnesota to Florida in 1904 for a warmer climate for his sickly wife, and land to grow tropical trees and fruits. He later purchased 100 acres on the "golden ridge," the tropical sand dune that runs along the western side of the Indian River. First he grew pineapples, then citrus fruit. By 1918 his brick three-story home was completed and stands today on five acres of property, bequeathed to the Indian River County Historical Society in 1999 when Axel's only daughter, Ruth, passed away. This beautiful home is filled with the original furnishings and archives from the Hallstrom family. It is open Monday through Friday and the last Saturday of the month from 1-4 pm. Many Swedish holidays are celebrated here including St. Lucia Christmas, Fika Pause, and Axel Name Day. A donation of $5 a person is suggested to help maintain the house and gardens.See more..
