DELAND, Fla. — The historic Stetson Mansion — once the winter retreat of hat magnate John B. Stetson and among the first homes in the world wired by Thomas Edison — has once again opened its doors as the spectacular “Christmas Mansion.”
What You Need To Know
The historic Stetson Mansion in DeLand has transformed into the lavishly decorated “Christmas Mansion”
Owners Kayla and Frank Jennings say the estate draws nearly 20,000 visitors each holiday season
The Gilded Age home showcases original Tiffany-stained glass, intricate woodwork and early Edison-installed electrical features
Ten holiday-themed rooms highlight the history and legacy of John B. Stetson
Owner Kayla Jennings begins decorating as early as June, describing the transformation as “bigger and grander than I could have ever expected. Thank goodness that Christmas is my favorite holiday.”
Spanning nearly 10,000 square feet, the estate becomes a dazzling holiday showcase, featuring elaborate décor across ten themed rooms.
Co-owner and husband, Frank Jennings, helps prepare the massive Gilded Age estate, noting, “We usually get around 20,000 people to tour the mansion for that time period.”
Visitors are welcomed inside by Kayla — “Hello. Welcome to the Stetson Mansion. Come on in,” — where they discover Florida’s first luxury estate, built in 1886 and once home to John and Elizabeth Stetson.
“This was John and Elizabeth Stetson’s winter home. They were our first snowbirds,” she adds.
Inside, guests can admire an array of architectural styles and original craftsmanship, including stained-glass windows gifted by famed artist Louis Comfort Tiffany.
“We have the original stained-glass windows. They were gifts from Mr. Louis Comfort Tiffany. We have over 10,000 panes of glass,” Kayla explains.
The home was also groundbreaking for its time, featuring steam heat, running water and electricity installed by Thomas Edison himself.
“We are the first home to have steam, heat, electricity and running water in the state of Florida,” Frank says.
The master suite has been transformed this year to showcase special memorabilia commemorating the legacy of the Stetson brand.
“So, the master suite this year has a lot of his memorabilia. It has a lot of history that we’re going to bring to the tour,” Kayla says.
The mansion also once hosted some of the world’s most prominent figures, including the Mellons, Vanderbilts, Carnegies, and even the King and Queen of England.
“We had the Mellons, the Vanderbilts, the Carnegies, and the King and Queen of England several times here as well,” Kayla recalls.
With its elaborately decorated grounds, historic charm and thousands of twinkling lights, the Jennings say the mansion delivers holiday spirit for all ages.
“It’s suitable for all ages. And it’s an amazing sight to see,” Frank says.
The Christmas Stetson Mansion is open from Nov. 1 through Jan. 18. Admission is $29.50 for adults and $19.00 for visitors 17 and younger.
For reservations and more, visit the Stetson Mansion.