A Rockefeller Ormond Beach Estate - The Casements

The Casements was built in 1914 by Reverend Harwood Huntington of New Haven, Connecticut. The 9,000 square-foot mansion, named the Casements, for the large hand-cut casement-style windows that adorn the mansion, was purchased in 1918 by John Davidson Rockefeller at age 78. Rockefeller made it famous for being his winter residence. Rockefeller was primarily known as the founder of the Standard Oil Company and one of the wealthiest individuals in history. He became known in the area for his elaborate Christmas parties, his love of golf, and for handing out ‘Rockefeller’ dimes to staff, neighbors and visitors. John D. Rockefeller died here, in his sleep here on May 23, 1937. The family sold off the estate in 1939, and in 1940, the property was purchased to become the Casements Junior College and Prepatory School. Then in 1959 the property was sold to the Hotel Ormond Corporation and they had plans for development, but those plans never materialized. In 1973, The Casements was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in the following year was purchased by the City of Ormond Beach. Recognizing its historical significance, the city restored the mansion and opened it to the public as a cultural center and event venue.

Here is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

The front facade

As you enter the main entrance

In the atruim with decorative glass ceiling

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John D. Rockefeller: His Life and Times in Ormond, Florida

By Howell, Alice R.

Ormond Beach, Fl

By Ormund Beach Historical Trust Inc.

Daytona Beach: 100 Years of Racing

By Cardwell, Harold D

The north entrance of the home with portico.

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Inside the north entrance foyer

The enclosed sun porch

This wicker chair is the only one remaining from when the property was a hotel. The chair would allow the guest to enjoy the fresh air, but keep out of the sun.

Inside the octagon-shaped atrium

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French doors lead to the former formal dining room.

Looking from the former formal dining room into the atrium

In the former formal dining room, now used as a gallery.

Former second floor bedrooms

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On the second floor landing that looks down onto the first floor atrium.

The Rockefeller Room, which contains items that the family has donated.

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The building has many artifacts and documentation regarding Rockefeller, his life, and his philanthropy.

There is another room dedicated to racing, and the role both Ormond and Daytona beaches played in it.

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During Rockefeller's ownership, this served as a retreat where he could enjoy the mild climate of Florida and pursue his interests in gardening, outdoor activities, and philanthropy.

This was a house that was built to accommodate staff. Today, this is a private residence.

The property along the intercostal is now part of a waterfront park.

The Ormond Garage restaurant pays tribute to the original Ormond Garage which was the first gasoline alley built before Indianapolis Speedway. It was built in 1904 by Henry Flagler who owned the Ormond Hotel, to accommodate participating cars during the beach races. The original garage burned to the ground in 1976.

Car racing and related memorabilia inside the Ormond Garage restaurant.

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Nearby Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach sunrise

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What you should know:

• Restrooms are available.

• There is no charge for Casements admission or tour.

• You could spend up to two hours here.

• Tours can be both guided or self-guided.

• There are walking trails in the adjacent park along the intercostal.

• Check website for days and hours of operation, and a calendar of special events.

Location: 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach, FL 32176

For more information: The Casements