The House That Hats Built: Exploring John B. Stetson’s Winter Retreat

During the Gilded Age, John B. Stetson, renowned for his iconic cowboy hats, sought refuge from harsh northern winters in the sunny climate of DeLand, Florida. His winter retreat, the Stetson Mansion, stands as a testament to his legacy and innovation. This historic estate, now a sought-after event venue, showcases the blend of luxury and technology that defined its era.

The Stetson mansion's history reveals how Stetson's move south for health reasons transformed DeLand into a social hub for elites like President Grover Cleveland and Thomas Edison. Funded by "Hat Money," the estate set new standards in self-sufficiency and elegance on the Florida frontier. Explore how this remarkable destination stands apart among historic Florida homes and has evolved from a private retreat to a unique venue for special events.

During the Gilded Age, John B. Stetson, famous for his cowboy hats, escaped the cold northern winters by heading to sunny DeLand, Florida. His winter home, the Stetson Mansion, still stands today as a symbol of his legacy and creativity. Now a popular event venue, the estate highlights the mix of luxury and technology that made its time special.

The story of the Stetson Mansion shows how Stetson’s move to Florida for his health helped turn DeLand into a gathering place for famous guests like President Grover Cleveland and Thomas Edison. Built with money from his hat business, the estate set new standards for comfort and style in early Florida. Today, it stands out among historic homes and has grown from a private getaway into a special place for events.

John B. Stetson: Florida's Original Snowbird

John B. Stetson moved to Florida mainly for his health, not just for relaxation. Like many people during the Gilded Age, he wanted to escape the cold northern winters. Florida’s warm weather was a welcome change and attracted others looking to feel better. Stetson’s yearly trips south started a trend, making him one of the first "snowbirds."

Stetson’s choice was more than just a personal one; it reflected a new trend among wealthy people of that era. As one of the first well-known figures to build a winter home in Florida, he helped shape the state’s reputation as a place for luxury and health. His move to DeLand drew other rich visitors, making the area a top spot for winter getaways.

Choosing DeLand: A Strategic Escape

John B. Stetson chose DeLand, Florida, for his winter home because it made sense and showed vision. Back then, DeLand was a small but growing town with a quiet atmosphere and room to grow. Located in central Florida, it offered both country charm and easy access to new social opportunities. Its natural beauty and mild weather attracted people escaping the cold north.

By the late 1800s, Florida was a popular place for wealthy people to spend their winters. DeLand stood out because of its beautiful scenery and growing town features. When people like Stetson arrived, the town grew quickly, becoming a lively place that drew others looking for a peaceful but active winter escape.

The Stetson Mansion: A High-Tech Gilded Age Estate

The Stetson Mansion showed off both new ideas and luxury, capturing the spirit of the Gilded Age. Built with money from Stetson’s hat business, the estate included advanced technology for its time. It had one of Florida’s first electrical systems, indoor plumbing, and steam heat, making it a self-sufficient home on the frontier.

Every part of the mansion’s design showed Stetson’s focus on modern living and comfort. The home featured detailed woodwork, imported tiles, and stained glass windows, all showing the luxury of the time. These touches highlighted both Stetson’s wealth and his forward-thinking style, making the mansion a model of elegance and new ideas.

A Social Hub for Gilded Age Elites

The Stetson Mansion soon became a favorite spot for social events among the wealthy during the Gilded Age. Its large halls and beautiful gardens hosted big parties and smaller get-togethers. Well-known guests like President Grover Cleveland and Thomas Edison often visited, attracted by the mansion’s beauty and Stetson’s warm welcome.

These gatherings were more than parties; they gave important people a chance to meet and share ideas. The mansion’s role as a social center made it a symbol of style and progress. Stetson’s knack for bringing together famous guests showed how important the mansion was in high society.

See Stetson Mansion History For Yourself. Reserve Your Spot in the Historic Tour

Today, the Stetson Mansion still shows off the grandeur and new ideas of the Gilded Age. Its history and beautiful design make it a must-see for anyone interested in this time period. Visitors can tour the mansion’s rich interiors and learn about its past through guided tours that highlight its special features and famous history.

If you’re looking for a special place to hold an event, the Stetson Mansion combines historic charm with modern comforts. Whether you’re planning a wedding, business event, or private party, the mansion offers a memorable setting that reflects its Gilded Age roots. To see this historic treasure for yourself, book a ticket online and find out why it’s still a symbol of Florida’s rich history.

Step Inside a Living Estate: The "Past & Present" Tour Difference

Step into a place where history and modern life come together. The "Past & Present" tour at the Stetson Mansion lets you walk on original floors and see classic fixtures next to modern furniture and updated bathrooms. Unlike most historic tours, this one shows how the past and present mix in a lively way.

The Concept of a Living Estate

A living estate changes how we see history by mixing old and new. Instead of keeping everything the same, the estate grows and adds modern touches to its historic setting. Visitors get to see how the estate has changed over time.

The main idea is that history is not only saved but also lived every day. Each room has its own story, showing off original features like the detailed 1886 parquet floors next to modern comforts. This helps visitors connect with history in a hands-on way and see how the past and present work together.

The "Past & Present" Tour Experience

On the "Past & Present" tour, you'll see history and modern style come together in every room. Victorian details sit alongside new designs, and the tour leads you from one time period to the next. As you walk through the estate, each space shares its own story, showing how the mansion has changed. This mix of old and new makes the mansion more interesting and helps you think about how styles have changed over time.

Historical Features

One of the best parts of the tour is seeing the estate's original features up close. The parquet floors show the detailed work of the past and give you a sense of what people valued back then. The original woodwork and stained-glass windows are also kept in great shape to keep their history alive.

Because the estate works hard to keep these features, visitors can really see the skill and detail from that time. These details aren't just old pieces; they're part of a story that's still going on.

Modern Touches

The estate also has modern updates that make the tour better. New bathrooms and modern furniture fit right in with the old rooms, so you get comfort and convenience without losing the estate's historic feel.

These modern touches are important because they show how the estate keeps up with today’s needs while still respecting its history. Mixing old and new makes the tour both fun and educational, letting you experience history firsthand.

Guided Tours: Enhancing the Experience

Guided tours make the "Past & Present" experience even better. Knowledgeable guides take you through the estate and share stories that make each room interesting. They point out both the old and new features and give you a background that helps you understand more.

The guides do a great job linking the estate’s history with what it is today, helping you see the care and creativity behind every change. With their help, you can really get to know the estate’s unique story.

Setting Expectations for Visitors

To make the most of your visit, wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking through different rooms and floors. Feel free to take photos to capture the beautiful details and contrasts around the estate.

Be sure to check the estate’s website for details like tour times and booking info. Planning ahead will help you enjoy your visit and focus on all the beauty and history around you.

Experience the Past and Present at the Stetson Mansion

The "Past & Present" tour at the Stetson Mansion is a unique experience that goes beyond regular historic tours. Walking through this living estate lets you see how history and modern life come together in a memorable way.

Whether you love history or just want to visit a special place, the Stetson Mansion has something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to explore this amazing living estate. Book your tour today and see where the past and present meet.

Victorian Innovation: Inside Florida’s First "Smart Home"

Step into a home that was a center of innovation in the 19th century, long before modern technology existed. The Stetson Mansion became known as Florida’s first "smart home" because of John B. Stetson’s incredible vision. As Florida’s 1st luxury estate, it featured Edison electricity, steam heat, and indoor plumbing amenities that focused on comfort, efficiency, and design long before they were standard.

Today, that same spirit attracts tech fans and those seeking the most authentic historic tours in the state. We invite you to join us for a legacy tour to see these marvels firsthand.

The Visionary Behind Florida’s First Smart Home

John B. Stetson created more than just a grand house; he built a laboratory for new ideas. Famous for changing American industry, Stetson brought his forward-thinking approach to his Florida home. He embraced life-improving technologies before they went mainstream, showing that a smart home should provide reliability through thoughtful design. This philosophy is what makes our history tours so unique. You aren't just looking at a building; you're looking at a blueprint for the future.

Edison Electricity: Lighting Up the Stetson Mansion

When most homes used oil lamps, Stetson chose Edison electricity. This choice changed everything, making lighting safer and allowing the home to run on its own schedule. Electric lights changed how guests moved and how events unfolded after dark. It was a bold statement that technology should make life better, a theme we explore deeply when you join us for our legacy tour.

Steam Heat: Comfort Designed for Every Season

While most homes relied on drafty fireplaces, the Stetson Mansion used steam heat to provide steady warmth. Radiators spread heat evenly, keeping the air cleaner by cutting down on smoke. By choosing steam, Stetson ensured this historic tour destination remained comfortable and welcoming for guests all year round, proving that reliability is the ultimate luxury.

Indoor Plumbing: A Revolutionary Convenience

In the late 1800s, indoor plumbing was a rarity, but Stetson made it a priority. With running water and multiple bathrooms, the home became a model of sanitation and efficiency. This made it easier to host large groups and earned the mansion its reputation as a forward-thinking estate. It transformed daily needs into a smooth, modern experience that continues to impresse visitors today.

The Stetson Mansion Today: A Venue for the Tech-Minded and History Buffs

Today, the Stetson Mansion offers a unique backdrop for events, shaped by 19th-century innovation. As Florida’s 1st luxury estate, it draws guests who appreciate creativity and quality. Its history of early electricity and steam heat makes it a one-of-a-kind setting for weddings, business events, and private parties.

Guests don’t just look at history; they experience how new ideas once changed daily life. Whether you are here for one of our historic tours or a private gala, the mansion’s creative spirit and original details continue to spark conversation and wonder.

Experience the Innovation of Florida’s First Smart Home

The Stetson Mansion shows that bold ideas always matter. It highlights how modern living was redefined before the term "smart home" even existed. We invite you to experience this for yourself. Join us for our legacy tour and walk through the halls of history.

Get in touch with us at the Stetson Mansion today to book one of our premier tours or to host an event that brings together innovation and unforgettable experiences.

Image credit: // Shutterstock // Kittisak Sirichunsuwan

Stetson Mansion Featured On ABC Action News - Tampa Bay

GALLERY: You can tour Stetson Mansion and its incredible Christmas decorations

This holiday season, you can take a tour of a more than 100-year-old mansion with some pretty impressive Christmas decorations.

Built in 1886, the Stetson Mansion is the largest and most spectacular "Gilded Age" residence ever built in Florida before 1900 according to its website.

It's a private residence that is lived in, but welcomes guests this time of year with over the top elegant holiday decorations.

Each year 10 rooms in the mansion are embellished with all new elaborate designer decorations and 24 nativities from around the world. Decorations are different each year. This year’s room themes include A Woodland Escape, Pretty As A Peacock, A Blue Christmas, Cardinal Conclave, Stetson Country Christmas, Life Is Wonderful, Hero’s Tribute, A Trip to the Pole, and A Santa Convention. Visitors will be guided through the first and second floors of the home by a knowledgeable tour guide providing lively commentary as holiday music from the baby grand player piano wafts in the background. The owner/designer might stop in to say hello to your group.

The tour lasts 75 minutes and reservations are required.

The cost is $27 + tax for adults, and $15 for those under 22 years old. However, note that the mansion is not recommended for infants and toddlers.

Holiday tours run daily through January 15.

For more information and to make a reservation, click here.

Stetson Mansion Ranked 3rd in The Nation by USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Award 2019

The top 10 winners in the category Best Holiday Historic Home Tour are as follows:

1. Graceland - Memphis

2. Wildwood Manor House - Toledo, Ohio

3. The Stetson Mansion - Deland, Fla.

4. Filoli Historic House and Garden - Woodside, Calif.

5. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens - Akron, Ohio

6. Meadow Brook Hall - Rochester, Mich.

7. Brucemore - Cedar Rapids, Iowa

8. Glessner House - Chicago

9. The Mount - Lenox, Mass.

10. Webb Deane Stevens Museum - Wethersfield, Conn.

A panel of experts partnered with 10Best editors to pick the initial 20 nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote.

Congratulations to all these winning historic homes!

Stetson Mansion Featured in FodorsTravel

Take a Look at These Historic Homes Decorated for Christmas

These Southern landmarks pull out all the stops for the most wonderful time of the year.

The American South might not be able to promise you a snowy Christmas, but if you fancy historic mansions, festooned with garlands, poinsettias, and thousands of lights, we’ve got you covered. These lavishly decorated homes throw open their doors every winter to share the yuletide spirit and make the rest of us jealous. ‘Tis the season!

Stetson Mansion 

WHERE: DeLand, Florida 

You’d never think the extravagant decorations at the Stetson Mansion could be the work of one man. It takes about two solid months, but owner JT Thompson transforms the Gilded Age villa (former home of famed hatmaker John Stetson) into a be-ribboned wonderland. All told, there are around 18 Christmas trees, 24 Nativity scenes, and no partridges but surprisingly several peacocks, a nod to Stetson’s love for the showy birds.

Each room has a dedicated theme. This year, see “A Woodland Escape” evoking winter’s first snowfall in the music room and “A Blue Christmas”—with blue jays—in the parlor. Guided tours elaborate more on the decor than the history, though you’ll pick up some fascinating facts about the home, too, like how it featured one of the world’s first strings of Christmas lights, a gift from Thomas Edison.

When: November 15-January 15

Read Full Article

Holiday things to do: 16 Florida experiences worth the drive by The Walton Sun

15. Stetson Mansion Holiday Christmas Tour

If you’re in need of a little Old Florida this holiday season, look no further than the holiday tour at Stetson Mansion in DeLand, Fla. This enchanted place offers some of the most elaborate Christmas decorations in the state. Often handmade and rarely repeated, the 1886 High Victorian style “Gilded Age” mansion is on the National Registry of Historic Places. And get this: The Stetson Mansion has one of the first-ever Christmas trees with illuminated electric lights. Of course, that’s what you get when Thomas Edison is your close friend.

Thanks to John. B. Stetson -- the creator of the iconic Stetson cowboy hat -- we can visit this slice of Florida history any time of year, but especially for Christmas when the 10-room home is embellished with decorations and nativities. This year’s themes include Pretty as a Peacock, Life is Wonderful, A Trip to the Pole and a Hero’s Tribute.

Where: Deland

When to go: Now through Jan. 15

For more information, visit: https://www.stetsonmansion.com/christmas-tours.

Stetson Mansion’s ‘Christmas Spectacular!’ opens for holidays by The West Volusia Beacon

The best Holiday Home Tour in Florida and a 10Best in the nation, according to USA Today, runs through Jan. 15 in Florida’s most historic home, the Stetson Mansion.

The privately owned High Victorian mansion was built in 1886 for Florida’s first snowbird, John B. Stetson, the famed hat-maker. The largest, most opulent, and most technologically advanced home ever built in Florida before 1900 was one of the first homes in the world designed and built with Stetson friend Thomas Edison’s electricity, and the first to use Edison electric Christmas tree lights in Florida.

This holiday season, 12,000 visitors from all over the world are expected to enjoy guided tours of the mansion during a 60-day event, which has a $1.5 million economic impact on DeLand and West Volusia.

New elaborate and elegant themed displays are created each year for 10 rooms. Unlike other holiday homes decorated by dozens of volunteers, the entire display is created and assembled in eight weeks solely by co-owner/designer JT Thompson, who hand-places each intricate layer of decoration. Themes this year include “A Woodland Escape,” “A Cardinal Conclave,” “Heroes Tribute” and “Life is Wonderful.”

“Our goal this year is to make you feel like you came home for Christmas,” said fellow co-owner Michael Solari.

Guides detail the inspiration and meaning of each room, as well as share a little history of the home’s builder and current owners.

The mansion holiday tours began Nov. 15. Reservations are required and can be made at StetsonMansion.com for the hour-and-15-minute guided tour, which is similar to a one-man show.

Tours operate at 10:30 a.m., and 1:30, 3:15, 5 and 7 p.m. The cost is $27 for adults, $15 for youths 1 to 22 years old, plus tax and a $3-per-ticket processing fee. Parking is free.

More details can be found on the website.

Stetson Mansion is at 1031 Camphor Lane, west of Downtown DeLand.

Stetson Mansion decked out for the holidays .- Featured by ClickOrlando.com

Iconic home features lavish Christmas decor

DeLAND, Fla. – For the past nine years, the owners of the iconic Stetson Mansion in DeLand have been decorating it for Christmas tours.

The mansion, which was built in 1886 by famed cowboy hat maker John B. Stetson, sits on 2.3 acres of land and includes a small schoolhouse.

The current owner, J.T. Thompson, uses his imagination to decorate 10 rooms with the Christmas spirit and he also pays tribute to the Stetson family with several decorative peacocks.

“Mr. Stetson had peacocks, hundreds of them, that roamed his acreage. Every year it’s in a different area and this year, for the first time ever, it’s taken over the grand stair case,” Thompson said. “I never repeat themes or designs. Every year we feature nativities from around the globe.”

One of the guest rooms also honors the brave men and women of the U.S. military.

“This year I added first responders as well and this room is probably always the most difficult room for me to design because I just want to -- I want to make it impactful and I want them to know just how much their service and their allegiance to the country means to me,” he said. “Including even a tribute to one of the greatest tragedies our nation has ever faced: 9/11."

This year, the dining area’s decoration was inspired by the owner’s childhood memory.

“This is called the conclave of cardinals. So as a young boy, I was an altar boy and I remember when all the cardinals would get together to vote on the new pope. As you go through the room, you’ll hear, you’ll see cardinals,” Thompson said.

Inside the reception parlor, a Christmas tree decorated in blue jays and silver balls stands next to a piano that has also been covered with blue and silver decor.

Thompson called the room, “I’ll have a blue Christmas.”

" I wanted guests to feel as if the 120 blue jays came into the room, designed, decorated and prepared it for them and the arrival of the Christ child," he said.

Thompson and his partner purchased the property 13 years ago. It’s often been referred to as the crown jewel of Central Florida. It was the eclectic architecture and character Thompson fell in love with.

“We stepped inside this home and I just knew that this was a home that we had -- it had to be ours and we had to save it from the wrecking ball and bring it back to life,” he said.

The Christmas tour runs through Jan. 15. Tickets are $27 for adults and $15 for children. The tour takes 1 hr and 15 mins and includes the first and second floor as well as a school house.

Free parking is available. Historic tours are offered from Feb. 2 to Sept. 14th.

For more information, click here.

6 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Daytona Beach

By Daytona Beach Area CVB on Oct. 02, 2019

Craving an escape from winter weather? Head to Daytona Beach for a range of holiday events and holiday spectaculars.Whether you are in the mood for the dreamlike experience of Christmas lights, a celebration that takes a step back in time or a jolly holiday parade, plenty of fun Christmas activities await in Daytona Beach! And with other Florida holiday experiences, such as Nights of Lights in St. Augustine and the fun spectacle of Surfing Santas in Cocoa Beach, so close (less than an hour drive) there’s even more reason to head to Daytona Beach for the holidays.Consider any one of these events to put you in the holiday spirit:

Magic of Lights® Holiday Display

The iconic Daytona International Speedway transforms into a holiday heaven during the Magic of Lights® Holiday Display. Take the family and drive through the 1.5-mile display, which features over a million of the latest in LED bulbs and all-new digital animation technologies that have been specially created for the “World Center of Racing.” For more information on ticket pricing for cars, motorcycles, vans, limos and buses, visit the websiteOpens in New Window . The event takes place daily through New Year’s Eve from 6 to 10 p.m. November 22-28, then from 7 to 10 p.m. November 28 through January 1. Ticket holders can drive through twice on Tuesdays (excluding Christmas Eve.)
•    Venue: Daytona International SpeedwayOpens in New Window  (at the intersection of International Speedway and Bill France Boulevards)
•    Address: 1801 West International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
•    Admission: $25/car at the gate; $20 in advance.

Stetson Mansion Christmas Spectacular Holiday Home Tour

The Stetson Mansion Christmas Spectacular Holiday Home Tour takes place at “Florida’s first luxury estate,” the famed Victorian Gilded Age residence built in 1886. Its original, rich architectural details make the perfect backdrop for elaborate holiday decorations, which are different each year. Designer decorations from around the world will adorn the mansion and each of the ten rooms will feature the this theme "Come Home for Christmas." Come and experience how Stetson Mansion has decked the halls on one of these enchanting tours, which are offered daily (except Sunday mornings) through January 15 at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:15 and 5 p.m. Reservations are required; visit the website for more informationOpens in New Window . And, as a special holiday gift, if you come for a Christmas tour, you can return for free as many times as you’d like from February to September 2018 when you bring a paying guest!
•    Venue: Stetson MansionOpens in New Window 
•    Address: 1031 Camphor Lane, DeLand, FL 32720
•    Admission: $27 + tax, adults; $15 + tax, ages 1-22

DeBary Hall Historic Site Candlelight Tours

Take a step back in history with a DeBary Hall Historic Site Candlelight Tour.
Originally a hunting retreat for a wealthy steamboat line owner, DeBary Hall offers interpretive exhibits that give a glimpse into the lifestyle of the late 1800s. During the holidays, the historic site is aglow with holiday adornments, Christmas decorations and old treasures. Explore the lodge on a candlelight tour and hear the story of the Christmas Orange, followed by refreshments. This experience is recommended for visitors aged 12 and older; call (386) 668-3840 for reservations.
•    Venue: DeBary Hall Historic SiteOpens in New Window 
•    Address: 198 Sunrise Boulevard, DeBary, FL 32713
•    Admission: $10 

Daytona Beach Boat Parade

Holiday cheer gets a nautical twist at the Daytona Beach Boat Parade, a favorite local tradition that’s back for another year on Saturday, December 7, at 6 p.m. Boats will be extravagantly decked out with twinkling lights and holiday décor to cruise the Halifax River, and you can experience the magic free of charge. Viewers post up watch along bridges, causeways and river shorelines, and it all culminates at Halifax Harbor Marina.
•    Venue: Halifax Harbor MarinaOpens in New Window 
•    Address: 450 Basin Street, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
•    Admission: FREE

A Northern Lights Christmas Gala at The Casements in Ormond Beach

For over four decades, The Casements Country Christmas has brought joy and good tidings to the Daytona Beach area! Set on the shore of the Halifax River and just two blocks from the ocean, the mansion has been called “the jewel of Ormond Beach.” This National Historic Site transforms into a winter wonderland on the first weekend of December. Admission is free for all three days! Enjoy special holiday décor, a tree lighting, holiday entertainment, train rides, gift shop, a handmade craft room, ice cream and food trucks, and more! The jolly man himself will be in attendance along with Mrs. Claus. Call 386-673-5312 for tickets.
•    Venue: The CasementsOpens in New Window 
•    Address: 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach, FL 32176
•    Admission: FREE; $25 for a Santa Holiday Tea at 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 8

Christmas in Daytona Beach offers a wide variety of festive activities and holiday fun. No matter which one you choose, a winter getaway is sure to put your whole family in a sunny, spirited state of mind.

Enjoy a look at everything Daytona Beach has to offer and start planning your next trip! Download our free official visitors guide or sign up for our e-newsletter.