Winter Park Public Library History and Archives Collection biographies of Winter Park families, Osceola Lodge.

The home on 231 Interlachen Avenue was built in 1882 by Francis B. Knowles as a winter resort to attract visitors to the area.   It later served as the permanent winter residence of Charles Hosmer Morse, who purchased it in 1904 and named it "Osceola Lodge" after the Seminole Indian chief.   Morse also remodeled his home and doubled its size.   "Osceola Lodge" is an excellent example of the Craftsman style of architecture, with its simple, well-proportioned, and functional designs.   Morse furnished the house with custom-made Mission Oak furniture, indicative of the arts and crafts movement, as well as with Indian artifacts, thereby creating a rustic atmosphere.   Hugh and Jeanette McKean resided briefly at 231 Interlachen before moving to Wind Song on Genius Drive.

Photo of Osceola Lodge. Photo of Osceola Lodge circa 1980.
The Osceola Lodge The Osceola Lodge in the 1980's
Photo of the Osceola Lodge lakefront. Photo of the Osceola Lodge boathouse.
The Osceola Lodge lakefront The Osceola Lodge boathouse circa 1980's
Photo of the road to the boathouse. Photo of Osceola Lodge as viewed from Interlachen Avenue.
The road to the boathouse The Osceola Lodge as viewed from Interlachen Avenue
Photo of the Osceola Lodge garage.
The garage circa 1980's

Click on the thumbnail photographs to view larger images.

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