Florida Historical Markers Programs - Marker Detail

Description: In 1884, retired General William Temple Withers, a native Kentuckian, began wintering in Florida. He spent much of his time acquiring land in Orange County and growing citrus. In 1888, he built this house and lived here until his death the following year. Withers’ widow, Martha, sold the house in 1910 to David O. Maguire and his family. Like Withers, Maguire was very involved in citrus growing, and the family became prominent citizens in Ocoee. Maguire’s son, Fred, was Ocoee's first mayor, and another son, Raymer, was the first city attorney. David Maguire died in 1913, but members of his family continued to reside in the house until 1979. The City of Ocoee acquired the house in 1984, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. Made from pine cut and milled on this site, it is an example of Stick Victorian style architecture. One of the finest houses in west Orange County, it was one of the first to have concealed electrical wiring and closets. The city restored the house following its acquisition. The upstairs rooms serve as a museum depicting early 1900s life in Ocoee.