ORMOND BEACH, Fla. – If you take a drive through Ormond Beach, you can’t help but notice the beautiful historical buildings that dot the landscape. These structures are not just aesthetically pleasing; they are filled with stories that echo the past.
Recently, we had the privilege of receiving a personalized tour from Mary Smith, the President of the Ormond Beach Historical Society. Our journey began at the historic Nathan Cobb Cottage, a quaint three-room structure with a fascinating backstory.
The cottage was built from the remnants of the Nathan F. Cobb schooner, which shipwrecked off the coast of Ormond Beach in 1896. Billy Fagan, who salvaged the ship, constructed this charming cottage, which now serves as a venue for community events, including a speaker series called “Conversations at the Cobb.”
Visitors can admire its storied original floors and fireplace, gaining insight into life in Ormond Beach at the turn of the 20th century.
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Our next stop was the Anderson-Price Memorial Building, a testament to the vision of the all-women Village Association, established in 1916. Their mission was to beautify Ormond, and they succeeded beyond measure. This building, which began as a meeting place, now serves as a prime wedding venue, preserving local history while honoring its namesakes, John Anderson and Joseph Price, who built the Hotel Ormond in 1887.
The Hotel Ormond was once the largest wooden structure in the United States, boasting 400 guest rooms, elevators, and a saltwater swimming pool. It attracted notable guests, including the Prince of Wales, President Harding, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, and John D. Rockefeller. Although the hotel was demolished in 1992, its legacy lives on through a replica at the Welcome Center in Ormond Beach, housed inside the historic MacDonald House.
One of the most intriguing remnants of the Hotel Ormond is the Cupola, salvaged by the Historical Society members. This architectural gem, once the centerpiece of the hotel’s roof, offered guests breathtaking views of both the ocean and river. Today, it is open on weekends, allowing visitors to step back in time.
Our tour concluded at The Casements, a 9,000-square-foot house that John D. Rockefeller purchased for his winter residence. Named after its casement-style windows, The Casements now serves as a mini-museum, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of America’s rich and famous. Rockefeller spent his winters here, enjoying golf and watching automobile racing on the beach, until his passing in 1937.
Ormond Beach is not just a place of historical significance; it is a living testament to the stories and achievements of those who came before us.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to explore, Ormond Beach offers a unique glimpse into the past, inviting you to discover its rich heritage.
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