Florida’s abandoned Howey Mansion: From Abuse to Glory

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Image Credit Flickr/Florida Memory

In the past, the Howey Mansion, now vacant, represented wealth and achievement in the Central Florida community of Howey-in-the-Hills. Yet after years of disregard, it fell into decay and became one of Florida’s most well-known abandoned locations. But because of Brad and Clay Cowherd, who bought the property and brought it back to its former splendour, the estate is now a gorgeous location for weddings and parties. Anyone interested in learning more about its fascinating history may take tours.

A Special Village with a Profound Past
Howey-in-the-

Image Credit Flickr/Florida Memory
Image Credit Flickr/Florida Memory

With less than 2,000 residents, Hills is a tiny community in Central Florida. It is renowned for its unusual history, primarily for being the site of Florida’s first citrus juice facility in 1921 . William John Howey, the person who developed the factory and after whom the town was named, created the community. Howey was one of Florida’s most prosperous citrus entrepreneurs. He acquired acres of property, planted orange groves there, and then sold the land to investors. Howey made a fortune by quickly capitalizing on the well-known fruit .

A House That Once Grew Tall

Image Credit Flickr/Florida Memory

For many years, the town’s crown gem, Howey House, a stunning Mediterranean Revival estate erected in 1925 by William John Howey, piqued the interest of everyone who went by. Howey’s life was unfortunately affected by the Great Depression, and he spent the rest of his time in politics. His widow remained at home for more than 40 years until he passed away in 1938. A mausoleum in the rear is where the Howeys and their daughter are interred .

Years of Ignorance and Legal Problems

Image Credit Flickr/Florida Memory
Image Credit Flickr/Florida Memory

The house had several owners throughout the years. The latest resident had lived there for a long time before receiving some poor financial advice, which resulted in the mansion going into foreclosure and creating a complicated legal situation for the property . The legal status following the foreclosure made it challenging for the many residents who wished to see the house preserved and perhaps even made available for tours. This gorgeous old home was left unoccupied for many years while many of its lovely features were hidden by dirt and filth .

A New Section

Image Credit Flickr/Florida Memory

Fortunately, good Florida locals Brad and Clay Cowherd saw the beauty of the land and bought it. Since then, the Cowherd family has painstakingly brought the place back to its former splendour . Once Brad and Clay purchased the house, their aunt and uncle took over the restoration, ensuring every little detail paid honour to the house’s fascinating past while enticing a modern audience. The Howey Mansion has been beautifully refurbished to serve as a gorgeous wedding and event venue today.

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