Whether you're a history buff or simply love a good piece of architecture, these four famously historic homes will have you yearning to visit each of the unique cities that host them.
Featuring desired character that is also showcased in a number of historic homes for sale in Lake County today, let's explore these famous pieces of Real Estate in Leesburg, Howey in the Hills, Mount Dora, and Fruitland Park, Florida:
The Mote Morris House – Leesburg, Florida
Dating back to 1892, The Mote-Morris house brings a rich history to the town of Leesburg, Florida. The beautiful Queen Anne Victorian was originally built by eight-term Leesburg Mayor, Edward H. Mote, for $9,000. It was then relocated in 1992 to Magnolia Street in Downtown Leesburg, one of today's most beloved local hotspots. The home features a four-story turret, two-story bay, formal parlor, and formal dining room. It is on the National Register of Historic Places, and home to the Leesburg Chamber of Commerce today.
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The Howey Mansion – Howey in the Hills, Florida
Photo by Abandoned Florida. "Howey Mansion." 2013. www.abandonedfl.com/howey-mansion
In 1916, after purchasing 60,000 acres in Lake County, William J. Howey founded the town that would later be called ‘Howey-in-the-Hills.’ In 1924, he and his wife Mary Hastings completed their plans for their new permanent home in ‘Howey-in-the-Hills.’ Interestingly, their architect was Katherine Cotheal Budd who had designed temporary lodging homes for women who were visiting their male relatives during World War 1. Budd is credited with this “Hostess” style idea, and The Howey is most likely the only existing example of the architectural design. It was designed in Mediterranean Revival style and is set back on a wide lawn with a large horseshoe-shaped drive. The interior was decorated using a wide-array of cultural influences such as Austrian and Florentine. Sadly, after Howey and his wife passed away, they were laid to rest in the family mausoleum on the grounds.
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The Donnelly House – Mount Dora, Florida
As a wedding gift, John P. Donnelly gave his new bride, Annie McDonald Stone, this Queen Anne style home in 1893. Donnelly served as the city’s first mayor, and thus, the home has become a staple of what visitors and residents alike resonate with when they think of historic Mount Dora. It is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and can still be admired today situated on N Donnelly Street, just across the street from ERA Grizzard Real Estate in Downtown Mount Dora.
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The Rose Plantation - Fruitland Park, Florida
A Massachusetts resident, William Dwight, built this estate in 1917 as a winter retreat. Many from the area describe The Dwight’s as “Florida’s Gatsby’s,” hosting galas, masquerades, tennis tournaments, and dozens of social parties. Over the century, many new owners resided in the Rose Plantation, but it was when Mr. & Mrs. Gibson purchased the property that it became a place that all Fruitland Park residents could enjoy. The couple turned this historic lakefront plantation home into an upscale steakhouse known and loved today as 'The Rose Plantation.'
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Each of these four historical homes showcase the charm still felt throughout each Lake County city today, adding to what makes them some of the most sought-after places to call home.
Loving the historic charm of these popular communities?
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Sources:
http://www.mountdoracitizen.com/donnelly-house-barbers-designs/
https://www.floridamemory.com/items/show/323834
http://www.howey.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7BACD34B8F-327E-4C9D-95F8-88E22AFF88BA%7D
http://www.abandonedfl.com/howey-mansion/
