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: Accordion Concert
July 18 @1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Join the Central Florida Accordion Club for a lively afternoon of singing and dancing to the rich sounds of the accordion. From timeless tunes to polkas and beyond, this merry group of talented musicians will educate and entertain guests during a two-hour concert in DeBary Hall Historic Site’s the...
DeBary Hall: Story Time
July 24 @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.
DeBary Hall Historic Site, which...
DeBary Hall: Teddy Bear Tea Party
August 1 @11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Bring your favorite teddy bear and step into a charming afternoon at Frederick deBary’s elegant winter hunting estate. Guests will tour the historic home, receive a delightful lesson in classic tea etiquette, and gather for a heartwarming teddy bear story. Attendees will be served tea and apple ju...
DeBary Hall: Wing it Wednesday
August 5 @8:30 am to 9:30 am
Lace up your walking shoes and head to Lake Beresford Park for a guided bird walk led by DeBary Hall staff. Participants will learn the park's history and cultural significance while practicing live bird identification by sight and sound. They will receive assistance adding new species to their pers...
DeBary Hall: Line Dancing
August 6 @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
August 7 @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.
DeBary Hall Historic Site, which...
DeBary Hall: Seed 101 - How to Grow from Seed
August 13 @11:30 am to 12:30 pm
Join certified Master Gardener Jennifer Condo for an interactive Lunch & Learn on the basics of growing plants from seed, including selecting seeds, choosing the right growing medium, and providing proper light and moisture. Bring your lunch and gardening questions for this informative discussion.
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DeBary Hall: Line Dancing
August 20 @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: Books, Balls and Blocks
August 21 @9:00 am to 10:00 am
Children are invited to a morning featuring fun activities and developmental screenings provided by the Help Me Grow Florida program. The screenings will be followed by story time where children can enjoy books, sing songs, dance, and make a craft together. The program is designed for preschoolers, ...
DeBary Hall: Story Time
August 21 @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.
DeBary Hall Historic Site, which...
