In a love story involving a Central Florida community, an admired structure was saved from the wrecking ball and subsequently became Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum. The building had to be moved from its original location to one nearby in Winter Park to make way for development and has since become a focal point for cultural events. Stop at this spacious yet intimate structure that has been dubbed Winter Park’s Community Parlor.
The gorgeous setting of Casa Feliz is designed to resemble a large Spanish-style farmhouse. It is popular for wedding ceremonies. Other events include open houses on Sundays with free concerts that feature a range of musical genres. Frequent art exhibits, children’s parties, recitals and educational events help make the museum a self-supporting enterprise. Take a guided or self-guided tour during open house hours on Sunday afternoons, as well as Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
Historic buildings in Central Florida were a rarity until the beginning of this century when a group of Winter Park residents with a growing interest in historical preservation recognized the importance of many of its buildings. The focal point was Casa Feliz, originally a retirement home, built in 1933 from the architectural plans of James Gamble Rogers II. Imagine the uproar from citizens when a wrecking crew started to demolish the building unannounced to make room for a modern mansion. Today Casa Feliz is on the National Register of Historic Places and represents historic preservation.
Travel around the city and notice other distinguished homes, many the work of the same architect. About 60 houses were designed by Rogers, as well as his own on the city’s Isle of Sicily and various buildings on the Rollins College campus. Following the near demise of Casa Feliz, the city council enacted a law protecting its older buildings.
Find Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum on Park Avenue North, next to the Winter Park Country Club golf course, with public admittance on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and Sunday afternoons. Although there isn’t an entrance fee, donations are gratefully accepted. The museum is closed on select holidays.
