Living in History: Embracing the Charm of a Historic Florida Home in Oak Hill

OAK HILL, FL - Tucked away in the charming town of Oak Hill, Florida, lies Seminole Rest, a place of great historical significance. This hidden gem is situated east of State Road 5, seamlessly blending into the breathtaking Canaveral National Seashore. Prepare to be captivated by the allure of this extraordinary site, where history intertwines harmoniously with the beauty of nature.

The Instone House, nestled in Oak Hill, Florida, holds a rich historical significance. This remarkable abode has earned its place on the prestigious National Register of Historic Places and proudly stands as a part of the Canaveral National Seashore. Constructed during the late 19th century by the esteemed Instone family, it stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of Victorian architecture in Volusia County. Rising proudly with two stories, the house boasts a charming wraparound porch, a gabled roof, and intricate gingerbread trim that adds a touch of elegance to its already captivating allure.

Wesley H. Snyder acquired the property back in 1911, and it stayed within the Snyder family for several decades until the late 1980s. At that point, the Nature Conservancy took ownership, followed by the National Park Service, ensuring its preservation for generations.

Not only does the Seminole Rest site boast the Instone House, but it also features a caretaker's house, a shell midden, and a picnic area. The shell midden, a remarkable relic from the St. Johns I-period, stands as one of the few remaining intact shell mounds along the Atlantic coast. Within its ancient embrace lies a multitude of archaeological treasures waiting to be discovered.

The accessible Seminole Rest Trail provides interpretive information about the site.

This wildflower, commonly referred to as the firewheel or Indian blanket, is indigenous to Florida and various regions in the southeastern United States.

Seminole Rest was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on March 19, 1997

Seminole Rest is located at 210 River Road, Oak Hill, Florida

Here are some links you may find helpful:

Learn more about Canaveral National Seashore: https://npplan.com/parks-by-state/florida-national-parks/canaveral-national-seashore-park-at-a-glance/canaveral-national-seashore-historical-sites/canaveral-national-seashore-seminole-rest/

Learn more about Seminole Rest: https://www.nps.gov/cana/upload/seminole_rest_significance.pdf

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