DeBary Hall – Cassadaga, Florida
This historic site was formerly the winter retreat of a European-born wine merchant as his hunting estate. Built in the 1870’s he used the house for entertaining and hunting while in the states.
The house is 8,000 square feet in the main house. Although in 1941, when the last deBary heir died, there were more than 6000 acres with many outbuildings on the estate there are now only 10 acres. There is still the stables and other structures on the estate. The stable is now used to hold meetings, receptions and other events for the community.
The tenant house, which was truly a modest worker’ quarters has been restored too. It is believed to be older than DeBary Hall and may have belonged to settlers who sold deBary the core acreage for his home.
When you visit the estate you will be taken on a tour of the estate by knowledgeable docents showing you the exhibits, multimedia programs about the St. Johns River region, the winter house and lands and tell you stories of the people that worked on the estate.
You can take a hike along the spring-to-spring trail that traverses land now owned by Volusia County and the St. Johns River Water Management District. Enjoy a picnic at the new trailhead pavilion.
Hours
Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday: noon – 4 p.m.
(Last guided tour begins at 3:30.)
Driving Directions
From Interstate 4: Take exit 108 and turn right (west) on Dirksen Drive. Turn right on Mansion Boulevard and left on Sunrise Blvd and follow the signs to the parking lot.
From U.S. 17-92: Go east on Dirksen Drive. Turn left on Mansion Boulevard. Turn left on Sunrise Blvd and follow the signs to the parking lot.
Visitor parking is at the rear of DeBary Hall.
Admission
Adults: $5
Seniors: $4
Children ages 3-12: $2
Children under 3: Free
Phone: (386) 668-3840 or (386) 736-5953
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