
A Step Back In Time - Come Explore the Magic
Weddings, Events, Museum, Historic Tours

Sydonie Mansion in Mount Dora
It was once said to be the most significant residential structure in all of Florida. Established in 1883 and remodeled by famous architect Grosvenor Atterbury in 1903, it was the winter retreat for James Laughlin, the owner of J&L Steel in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Built in the Mediterranean Revival and Asian styles, it was designed after Alhambra Castle in Spain and included sculptured gardens with rare plants from around the world, citrus groves, a dairy farm, a power plant, and even a bowling alley. Sydonie was once a 9000-acre preserve.
The mansion features 11 bathrooms, 13 bedrooms, and 13 fireplaces with beautiful handcrafted wooden moldings throughout, reflecting an era of craftsmanship difficult to find in modern homes. Share in our journey as we pair historical craftsmanship with modern design and creativity to restore this amazing mansion to its former glory and provide a unique wedding venue and location for events and daily historical tours.