Baynard House

One of the oldest remaining houses in Auburndale is a repository of reminders of the city's history.

The Baynard House Museum occupies the former home of Ephriam Mikell Baynard, one of the city's founders. Baynard is known for rebuilding the city with his own money after devastating fires in the early 1900s.

The two-story, wood-frame house, built in 1894, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

After the city acquired it in 1992, the building was restored through the combined efforts of the city and students from Auburndale High School.

In May 1997, the Baynard House opened as a museum and special events venue.

This year, the house will be the site of various events as Auburndale celebrates its centennial the week of May 25-28.

The house contains antique furniture and other historical heirlooms.

The house has been the site for friendship teas, a doll show and Mother's Day luncheon.

The house also is the site for an annual Student Art Show in the spring.

Each school year, fourth-graders from Auburndale-area schools tour the Baynard House when they study Florida history.

There is also an annual flea market held in March to raise money for the upkeep and continued renovation of the house.

Christmas at Baynard House, featuring Christmas music, decorations and light hors d'oeuvres, has become an annual event sponsored by the city's Parks and Recreation Department and Baynard House Advisory Committee.

The committee was established as a way for supporters to contribute time, talent and resources to the continued refurbishment and use of the historic Baynard House.

Volunteers serve as tour guides, donate collectibles or family heirlooms to be displayed at special events and assist in coordinating projects and functions.

The Baynard House Museum is open for tours upon request. The house is at 208 W. Lake Ave., just off Lake Stella near downtown.

For more information, call the city's Parks and Recreation Department at 863-965-5545.