The Heritage Preservation Trust • PO Box 1845 • Daytona Beach, Florida 32115 • 386.299.4974

 Lilian Place is the oldest house on Daytona's beachside. Built by one of the city's first settlers in 1884, it is a prime example of the Italianate High Victorian architecture with its high ceilings, wood crown moldings and heart-of-pine floors. It is one of two such structures in this style remaining in the county. The Trust was able to acquire this significant site valued at well over $1 million for $425,100 through the Volusia County ECHO grant.

Lilian Place, empty and neglected for the past year, will be renovated with supervision provided by the Trust and opened to the public as a museum and public meeting site. Speakers, films, and historical figure re-enactors can provide interesting programs about local heritage. Period furniture and artifacts will bring history alive for visitors.

Besides history, Lilian Place has its place in American literature. Stephen Crane, author of The Red Badge of Courage, made Lilian Place famous in his story “The Open Boat” when he described how he and two companions were rescued when their boat sank off shore on Dec. 31, 1896. Writer Robert Wilder wrote several books about the early days in Daytona. He penned two Broadway plays, Sweet Chariot and Stardust. He was also a friend to the Thompson daughters of Lilian Place. Continuing this tie with literature, the Trust will offer book clubs, writing workshops, and author book signings as regular events at Lilian Place. 

This acre site on the riverfront can also provide environmental education programs about our native natural resources, historical gardens, and native plant life. Clearing of the waterfront, picnic tables, and eventually a dock for canoeists, kayakers, and young fishermen are future goals which will provide public access and an active use of the facility.

These activities can be initiated after Lilian Place is repaired and made habitable for visitors. Estimated cost is $58,000 to open the doors of this beautiful and valuable historic mansion and grounds for the community to enjoy!  We are seeking support from the community to accomplish this goal.

Please join as a member and become a FRIEND OF LILIAN PLACE!