John B. Stetson House, Victorian mansion in DeLand, Florida.
The John B. Stetson House is a three-story wood frame residence with over ten thousand panes of leaded glass windows and sixteen different parquet patterns throughout its interior. The elaborate interior finishes showcase the luxurious living standards typical of prominent manufacturers during that era.
Built in 1886 by architect George T. Pearson, the residence served as the winter home for John B. Stetson, creator of the American cowboy hat. Its construction reflected the growing wealth and industrial prosperity transforming the nation during the late 1800s.
The residence reflects the tastes of wealthy Americans during the Gilded Age, blending Gothic, Tudor, Moorish, and Polynesian design elements. This mix of architectural styles shows how a prosperous family expressed their cosmopolitan interests through their home.
The residence is located on Camphor Lane and is open for guided tours throughout the year, with special holiday decorations visible from November through January. Visitors should plan ahead to choose the best time for a visit and experience seasonal highlights.
Thomas Edison personally supervised the electrical installation, making it one of the first residences designed specifically for electric lighting. This early adoption of electricity was a sign of both wealth and the family's willingness to embrace modern technology.
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