Have you ever wondered what it would be like to step inside a Florida home from more than 100 years ago?
In the charming city of DeLand, Florida, there's a beautifully preserved historic house where visitors can explore elegant rooms, admire period furnishings, and discover the fascinating stories of the people who helped shape Central Florida.
Welcome to the DeLand House Museum!
Originally built in 1886, this historic residence has witnessed more than a century of change.
The home was transformed into an elegant Neoclassical Revival residence during the early 1900s, and an extensive restoration completed in June 2024 brought new life to the property.
Today, guided tours transport visitors to the years when DeLand was growing rapidly and Florida's famous land boom was transforming communities throughout the state.
Whether you love touring historic homes, exploring beautiful architecture, or discovering unusual Florida attractions, the DeLand House Museum deserves a place on your bucket list!
A Historic Florida Home Dating Back to 1886
The story of the DeLand House Museum begins in 1886, during the early years of DeLand's development.
The original residence was a modest, one-and-a-half-story wooden home.
It stood on property that had once been part of the land acquired by Henry Addison DeLand, the city's founder.
At the time, Central Florida looked very different from the communities visitors see today.
Orange groves, small farms, and developing neighborhoods surrounded the growing town.
The original property even included an orange grove extending toward what is now Woodland Boulevard.
As DeLand developed, the home changed ownership and eventually became associated with prominent members of the community.
Over the following decades, the building was enlarged and transformed into the elegant residence that visitors can tour today.
The Connection to DeLand's Founder
The museum's property has an interesting connection to Henry Addison DeLand.
A businessman from New York, DeLand played an important role in establishing the community during the 1870s.
He envisioned a growing Florida town with educational opportunities, businesses, and attractive residential neighborhoods.
The land on which the museum stands was part of his early property holdings.
As the community expanded, portions of that land were sold and developed.
The DeLand House became one of the residences built during the town's early growth.
Today, its preservation provides a connection to the city's beginnings.
An Interesting Connection to the Hamlin Orange
Another fascinating part of the home's early history involves George Washington Hamlin and the Hamlin family.
The original house was built after land associated with Henry DeLand was sold to George Washington Hamlin.
The family was connected to Arthur George Hamlin, an early DeLand attorney associated with the development of the Hamlin orange.
The Hamlin orange became an important variety in Florida's citrus industry.
This connection reflects how closely the city's early development was tied to agriculture and citrus production.
Visitors interested in Florida history may appreciate learning how a single historic property connects to the state's early orange-growing economy.
From a Modest Home to an Elegant Residence
One of the most remarkable things about the DeLand House Museum is how much the building changed over time.
The original 1886 residence was a relatively simple wooden dwelling.
Around 1912, the home underwent major alterations that transformed its appearance.
The expanded residence adopted elements of the Neoclassical Revival architectural style.
This style became popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
It drew inspiration from classical architecture, emphasizing balanced proportions, prominent columns, and elegant exterior details.
The transformation reflected the growing prosperity and changing architectural tastes of DeLand's residents.
Today, the house provides a beautiful example of how older Florida homes were adapted as communities developed.
Meet Dr. Charles and Alma Farriss
The DeLand House Museum tells the story of the family most closely associated with the residence's early-20th-century appearance.
Dr. Charles and Alma Farriss made the house their family home during an important period in DeLand's history.
Charles Farriss was closely connected to Stetson University.
He served as a professor and held important administrative positions during his long career.
His work linked the household to one of the city's most influential institutions.
Alma Farriss was also an important part of the family's story.
Together, the couple raised their family during a period when DeLand was experiencing significant cultural and economic changes.
The museum's current interpretation focuses on their lives and the community around them.
The Stetson University Connection
Stetson University has played an important role in DeLand's development for generations.
The institution traces its beginnings to 1883, when it opened as DeLand Academy.
It later developed into the university known today.
Dr. Charles Farriss joined the institution's faculty during the 1890s.
Over the course of his career, he served in several leadership positions, including university vice president and interim president.
His connection to Stetson helped make the Farriss home part of DeLand's educational and social history.
Visitors can learn about the relationship between the university, its faculty, and the surrounding community.
For anyone interested in historic college towns, this connection makes the museum particularly fascinating.
Explore Beautifully Restored Historic Rooms
One of the highlights of visiting the DeLand House Museum is stepping inside its restored rooms.
The interiors reflect the early-20th-century period when the Farriss family lived in the residence.
Visitors can admire period furnishings, decorative objects, and historic details that help recreate the atmosphere of the era.
The rooms illustrate how a professional family might have lived during DeLand's years of growth.
Furniture arrangements, household objects, and architectural features help tell the story of daily life.
Rather than simply displaying antiques, the museum uses its rooms to interpret the people and events connected to the property.
A guided tour provides additional context about the furnishings and the family's experiences.
Discover Authentic Artifacts and Memorabilia
The museum contains a collection of authentic artifacts and memorabilia associated with DeLand and West Volusia County.
These objects help illustrate the area's development from a small settlement into a thriving community.
Visitors can discover items connected to local families, businesses, and institutions.
Everyday household objects provide a glimpse into how people lived during earlier generations.
Other artifacts reflect the social and economic changes that shaped Central Florida.
The collection makes the museum more than a beautifully preserved residence.
It also serves as a place to explore the broader history of the surrounding region.
Historic Photographs Bring DeLand's Past to Life
Another fascinating feature of the DeLand House Museum is its collection of historic photographs.
These images document the growth of DeLand and nearby communities.
Visitors can see how neighborhoods, streets, buildings, and everyday life changed over time.
Historic photographs are particularly interesting because they allow people to compare familiar places with their earlier appearances.
For local residents, the images may reveal surprising details about streets and landmarks they recognize.
For travelers, they provide valuable context about the community's development.
The photographs help connect the house's personal history with the larger story of West Volusia County.
Discover Florida's Progressive Era
The museum's current exhibits emphasize DeLand's growth during the Progressive Era.
This period, spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries, brought significant changes to American communities.
Cities expanded, educational institutions developed, and new technologies transformed everyday life.
DeLand experienced many of these changes as its population and economy grew.
The Farriss family's experiences provide a useful perspective on this period.
Visitors can learn how broader national developments influenced life in a Central Florida community.
The Great Florida Land Boom of the 1920s
One of the most interesting periods interpreted at the DeLand House Museum is Florida's land boom of the 1920s.
During this era, Florida experienced rapid growth as developers promoted new neighborhoods, communities, and investment opportunities.
People from across the country became interested in purchasing property in the Sunshine State.
New roads, businesses, and residential developments appeared throughout Florida.
The boom brought excitement and economic opportunities, but it also involved speculation and financial risks.
By the middle of the decade, the boom had begun to collapse.
The DeLand House Museum explores the community during this dramatic period of change.
Its exhibits help visitors understand how Florida's growth affected ordinary families and local institutions.
A Major Restoration Completed in 2024
The DeLand House Museum underwent an extensive restoration that was completed in June 2024.
The project was a partnership between the City of DeLand and the West Volusia Historical Society.
The work addressed important preservation needs while refreshing the museum's interior interpretation.
Before the restoration, the house had been presented primarily as a Victorian-era residence.
The updated exhibits now focus more closely on the early-20th-century period associated with the Farriss family.
This change allows the museum to tell a more specific story about DeLand's development.
The restored museum officially reopened to visitors on June 4, 2024.
For travelers who visited years ago, the updated exhibits provide a reason to return.
How the Historic Home Was Preserved
The DeLand House has survived thanks to decades of local preservation efforts.
In 1988, Robert and Hawtense Conrad purchased the property and donated it to the City of DeLand.
Their efforts helped ensure that the historic residence would be preserved rather than lost to redevelopment.
The home opened as a museum in 1990.
Since then, the West Volusia Historical Society has helped maintain the property and share its history with visitors.
The extensive restoration completed in 2024 represents another important chapter in the home's preservation.
Today, the museum continues to serve as an educational and cultural resource for the community.
Take a Guided Tour of the DeLand House
The best way to experience the DeLand House Museum is through one of its docent-led tours.
Knowledgeable guides share stories about the residence, its former occupants, and DeLand's development.
Tours provide an opportunity to learn about details that might otherwise be overlooked.
Visitors can hear about the home's architectural changes, the Farriss family, and the historical events that influenced the community.
The museum currently offers two scheduled guided tours each operating day.
Tour Times:
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Tuesday–Saturday: 12:30 PM
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Tuesday–Saturday: 2:30 PM
Because tours begin at specific times, it's important to plan your visit accordingly.
Groups should contact the museum in advance to arrange a tour.
Visit the Robert M. Conrad Educational & Research Center
The DeLand House Museum is part of a larger historical complex operated by the West Volusia Historical Society.
Also located at 137 West Michigan Avenue is the Robert M. Conrad Educational & Research Center.
This facility houses an extensive collection of historical research materials.
Its archives include vintage photographs, maps, directories, telephone books, and genealogical records documenting West Volusia's history.
The center is especially useful for people researching local families, historic properties, or the development of the region.
Research Center Hours:
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Tuesday–Saturday: Noon–4 PM
Researchers are encouraged to contact the center before visiting to confirm access and availability.
Discover the Lue Gim Gong Memorial Grove
Another feature of the West Volusia Historical Society complex is the Lue Gim Gong Memorial Grove.
Lue Gim Gong was a Chinese American horticulturist whose work became closely associated with Florida's citrus industry.
He developed an improved orange variety that became known as the Lue Gim Gong orange.
His contributions to citrus cultivation are an important part of DeLand's agricultural history.
The memorial grove provides another connection between the historic property and the region's citrus-growing heritage.
For visitors interested in Florida agriculture and local history, it's a worthwhile feature to learn about during a visit.
Browse the Museum Gift Shop
The historical society also operates a gift shop featuring books and other items related to local history.
Visitors can browse publications about DeLand and West Volusia County.
A boutique associated with the organization offers handcrafted items created by members of its Makers' Guild.
These items make thoughtful souvenirs for travelers who enjoy discovering locally made products.
Shopping at the museum also helps support the organization's preservation and educational efforts.
Explore DeLand's Historic Neighborhoods
One of the best things about visiting the DeLand House Museum is its location within a beautiful historic neighborhood.
The surrounding streets feature an impressive variety of architectural styles.
Visitors can admire homes dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The area includes examples of Frame Vernacular, Colonial Revival, and Mediterranean Revival architecture.
Walking through the neighborhood offers another opportunity to appreciate DeLand's history.
For architecture enthusiasts, the surrounding district can be just as interesting as the museum itself.
Take a Guided Historic Walking Tour
The West Volusia Historical Society offers seasonal guided walking tours through DeLand's historic neighborhoods.
These tours provide an opportunity to explore the city with knowledgeable local guides.
The walking tours generally operate October through April.
One route explores the Old Northwest Residential Historic District.
Another focuses on the historic Stetson University campus.
Each tour lasts approximately 75 minutes.
Visitors can learn about DeLand's early residents, architectural styles, historic homes, and important institutions.
Published Walking Tour Admission:
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Adults: $10
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West Volusia Historical Society Members: Free
Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance.
Because tour dates vary, check the current schedule before planning your visit.
Explore the Old Northwest Residential Historic District
The Old Northwest Residential Historic District is one of DeLand's most attractive historic neighborhoods.
The area contains homes built during different stages of the city's development.
Visitors can see how architectural styles changed as DeLand grew.
Historic residences line streets such as West Michigan Avenue, West Minnesota Avenue, and North Clara Avenue.
The neighborhood offers an opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and design of earlier generations.
For travelers who enjoy photographing historic buildings, it's a particularly appealing area to explore.
Discover Stetson University's Historic Campus
Another interesting destination near the museum is Stetson University.
Founded in 1883, the university has played an important role in DeLand's history.
Its campus includes historic buildings and landscaped grounds.
The historical society's guided campus walking tour explores the university's early development and architectural heritage.
Visitors can learn about the people who helped establish and expand the institution.
The campus is especially interesting for travelers who enjoy historic architecture and college-town destinations.
Visit the DeLand Memorial Hospital and Veterans Museum
History enthusiasts may also enjoy visiting another museum operated by the West Volusia Historical Society.
The DeLand Memorial Hospital and Veterans Museum is located at 230 North Stone Street.
This museum explores medical history, military history, and the experiences of local residents.
Exhibits include a recreated historic operating room, pharmacy, and physician's examination room.
Visitors can also explore displays about World War I, World War II, and the Florida Military School.
The adjacent Burgess Pavilion contains exhibits interpreting Black history and medical care in West Volusia County.
Published Museum Hours:
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Tuesday–Saturday: 10:30 AM–2:30 PM
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Last Tour: 1:30 PM
This is a separate museum location, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Spend Time in Historic Downtown DeLand
After touring the DeLand House Museum, make time to explore downtown DeLand.
The city is known for its charming historic buildings, locally owned businesses, and welcoming atmosphere.
Visitors can browse boutiques, antique shops, specialty stores, and art galleries.
Downtown also offers restaurants, cafés, and places to enjoy a relaxing lunch.
For travelers who appreciate walkable historic districts, DeLand is a wonderful destination.
The combination of preserved architecture, local businesses, and cultural attractions makes it easy to spend several hours exploring.
Make the DeLand House Part of a Florida Day Trip
The DeLand House Museum is a great starting point for a day of exploring the city.
A possible itinerary includes:
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Taking a guided tour of the DeLand House Museum
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Exploring the restored historic rooms
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Viewing period photographs and artifacts
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Visiting the Conrad Educational & Research Center
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Learning about the Lue Gim Gong Memorial Grove
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Browsing the museum gift shop
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Walking through the historic residential district
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Exploring Stetson University's campus
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Enjoying lunch in downtown DeLand
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Shopping at locally owned boutiques
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Visiting the DeLand Memorial Hospital and Veterans Museum
With so much history concentrated in one area, DeLand makes an appealing destination for travelers who enjoy exploring at a relaxed pace.
How Long Should You Spend at the Museum?
Allow approximately 45–60 minutes for the guided house tour and time to appreciate the exhibits.
Visitors who enjoy studying historic photographs and artifacts may want additional time.
If you plan to explore the research center or surrounding neighborhood, consider allowing another hour or more.
The seasonal historic walking tours last approximately 75 minutes and require separate reservations.
For a full day of sightseeing in DeLand, plan several hours to enjoy the museum, historic districts, restaurants, and shops.
Tips for Visiting the DeLand House Museum
Plan around the guided tour schedule. Tours begin at 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday.
Arrive a little early. This allows time to check in before your tour begins.
Admire the architecture. The home's transformation from an 1886 dwelling to a Neoclassical Revival residence is one of its most interesting features.
Look for the historic photographs. They provide a fascinating glimpse into DeLand's past.
Learn about the Farriss family. Their connection to Stetson University is central to the museum's story.
Explore the research center. It's a valuable resource for local history and genealogy.
Consider a walking tour. Seasonal guided tours reveal even more of DeLand's historic neighborhoods.
Visit downtown afterward. The city's restaurants and shops make it easy to turn your museum visit into a longer outing.
Check for special events. The historical society offers lectures, educational programs, and seasonal activities throughout the year.
Plan Your Visit to the DeLand House Museum
Attraction: DeLand House Museum
Location: DeLand, Florida
Address: 137 West Michigan Avenue, DeLand, FL 32720
Phone: (386) 734-4765
Operated By: West Volusia Historical Society
Original Construction: 1886
Major Architectural Transformation: Approximately 1912
Architectural Style: Neoclassical Revival
Museum Opened: 1990
Restoration Completed: June 2024
Guided Tour Schedule:
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Tuesday–Saturday: 12:30 PM
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Tuesday–Saturday: 2:30 PM
Published Admission:
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Adults: $10
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Children Ages 6–12: $5
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West Volusia Historical Society Members: Free
Group Tours: Available by Appointment
Museum Highlights:
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Restored Historic Residence
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Period Furnishings
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Historic Photographs
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Authentic Artifacts and Memorabilia
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Farriss Family History
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Stetson University Connections
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Progressive Era and Florida Land Boom Exhibits
Nearby Historical Society Attractions:
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Robert M. Conrad Educational & Research Center
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Lue Gim Gong Memorial Grove
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Historic Neighborhood Walking Tours
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DeLand Memorial Hospital and Veterans Museum
Recommended Visit Length: Approximately 45–60 Minutes for the House Tour
Before You Go: Confirm current tour availability, admission prices, special events, and holiday closures directly with the museum.
Is the DeLand House Museum Worth Visiting?
If you love historic homes, beautiful architecture, and fascinating stories about Florida's past, the DeLand House Museum is definitely worth adding to your travel plans.
The beautifully restored residence offers an opportunity to experience life during an important period in Central Florida's development.
Its furnishings, photographs, artifacts, and guided tours bring the history of DeLand and the Farriss family to life.
And because the museum is located near historic neighborhoods, Stetson University, and downtown DeLand, visitors can easily turn their tour into a memorable day of exploring.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply enjoy discovering unique places, the DeLand House Museum is a wonderful Central Florida hidden gem.
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