Location and Background: The John Dutton House, a Neo-Classical mansion, is located in DeLand, Florida. It was constructed at the turn of the 20th century, during a period when citrus, turpentine, and lumber were the dominant industries in Central Florida.
Architectural Details: The mansion features full-height Corinthian columns, ceramic tile panels on the gable ends and roof, and intricate decorations along the frieze, including scroll brackets and modillions.
History and Ownership
Early Years: Built in 1911 for $25,000, the house originally served as the private residence of John Wesley Dutton, who amassed his wealth from naval stores and lumber.
Subsequent Uses: Over the decades, the mansion has been repurposed several times:
1924: Became the residence of a local bank vice president.
1940s: Transformed into the Griffith-Stith Funeral Parlor, and later a conference hall.
Later Years: Operated as the Colonial Guest Home and then the Colonial Arms Apartments.
Challenges and Restoration Efforts
Financial Struggles: In 1990, the property faced foreclosure and was listed for sale at $129,000. However, it did not attract any buyers, leading to the issuance of a demolition permit by the DeLand City Commission.
Rescue and Restoration: A couple purchased the mansion for $90,000 in 1992 to prevent its demolition. They discovered significant termite damage, with estimated repair costs of at least $225,000. The renovation was expected to take five years and was supported by a charitable organization created by the new owners.
Public Use and Nonprofit Involvement
Intended Public Use: The mansion was intended to be restored for public use, potentially as a museum or wedding venue. However, due to the owner’s illness, the responsibility of restoration was passed to the city.
Historic DeLand, Inc.: Founded in 1995, this nonprofit organization successfully applied for state grants to fund the restoration. However, due to an economic downturn, state funding ceased in 2008, and the project has been ongoing for nearly 25 years without completion.
Current Status and Future Prospects
Organizational Changes: In 2005, the organization’s name was changed to Dutton House Inc. to avoid conflicts with the Historical Society of DeLand. Despite funding challenges, efforts continued until 2008, after which no further state funding was received.
Unfinished Restoration: As of now, the mansion remains under renovation, reflecting the difficulties of restoring such a historically and architecturally significant property. The future of the John Dutton House remains uncertain as it awaits completion and potential revival for community use.
