DeBary Hall Historic Site
Location: 198 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary
Get directions to site
History is alive at DeBary Hall Historic Site, a magnificent 19th century hunting estate overlooking the St. Johns River in DeBary, Florida. The site is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and includes DeBary Hall, the oldest intact building in southwest Volusia County.
Built in 1871, DeBary Hall was the winter retreat of a European-born wine merchant who chose the St. Johns River country for his hunting estate. Frederick deBary tried his hand at orange growing and commercial steamboating, but his Florida estate became a center of sport hunting and hospitality.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, some of the country’s wealthiest people visited DeBary Hall to spend winters hunting, fishing and swimming in the cool springs nearby, then relaxing in the shade of the veranda enjoying a cool drink and the news of the day. DeBary reportedly entertained Presidents Ulysses S. Grant and Grover Cleveland; the Astors, Goulds and Vanderbilts; and the Prince of Wales, who went on to become King Edward VII.
Today’s historic site covers 10 acres and includes the 8,000-square-foot hunting lodge, stables and other structures.
We invite you to explore history at DeBary Hall Historic Site. You’ll find remarkable buildings, a treasure trove of historical images, and many good stories.
Upcoming events
DeBary Hall: Wing it Wednesday
September 2 @8:30 am to 9:30 am
Lace up your walking shoes and head to Lake Monroe Park for a guided bird walk led by DeBary Hall staff. You will learn about the park's history and cultural significance, practice live bird identification by sight and sound, and receive assistance adding new species to your personal "life list.” ...
DeBary Hall: Florida Fossils
September 5 @1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Travel through time with Derek Demeter, director of the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College. He will explore the geological timelines of Florida and the fossils found within them, including many examples for guests to see and touch. Outside of his role as an a...
DeBary Hall: Fall Gardening Planning
September 10 @11:30 am to 1:00 pm
Join certified Master Gardener Pam Martinez for an interactive Lunch & Learn on the basics of planning and planting a fall garden. Bring your lunch and gardening questions for this informative discussion.
Reservations are not required for this program, whichis offered without charge. For more inf...
DeBary Hall: Line Dancing
September 10 @5:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Line dancing is a great way to exercise your mind and body. Join DeBary Hall staff for beginner line dances to various music genres. This program will be held in DeBary Hall's stable, 198 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary. There is a $5 charge for each class.
Registration is not required. For more informatio...
DeBary Hall: Story Time
September 11 @9:30 am to 10:30 am
Children are invited to Kids Corner, a free story time featuring stories, songs, and activities, at DeBary Hall Historic Site, 198 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary. The program is designed for preschoolers, but children of all ages are welcome. Reservations are not required for this program, which is offered w...
DeBary Hall: Line Dancing
September 24 @5:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Line dancing is a great way to exercise your mind and body. Join DeBary Hall staff for beginner line dances to various music genres. This program will be held in DeBary Hall's stable, 198 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary. It's recommended for adults, and there is a $5 charge for each class.
Registration is ...
DeBary Hall: Story Time
September 25 @9:30 am to 10:30 am
Children are invited to Kids Corner, a free story time featuring stories, songs, and activities, at DeBary Hall Historic Site, 198 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary. The program is designed for preschoolers, but children of all ages are welcome. Reservations are not required for this program, which is offe...
