Florida Historical Markers Programs - Marker Detail

Description: Side One: The Lawrence Developing Company built the three-story, 38-room Keystone Inn at a cost of $50,000. It was designed by architect G.M. MacDonough. Hopeful that the inn would attract potential settlers and investors, the developers held a festive dinner party at the hotel on New Year's Eve 1923, the night before the grand opening. After the meal, the men retired to the lobby and formed the Keystone Board of Trade to promote the area. The women formed the Woman's Club to serve community needs. On New Year’s Day 1924, the hotel held its grand opening with over 150 attendees. Notable guests came from all around, including from Green Cove Springs, Palatka, and Starke. State officials, including future governor John W. Martin, also attended. The inn was a hub of social activities, and provided a meeting place for organizations. It featured modern conveniences such as large comfortable rooms, connecting baths, hot and cold running water, electricity, and telephone service. The inn was known for its fine dining, and guests could relax on the large porch and enjoy the beautiful view of Lake Geneva. The Keystone Inn helped fuel Keystone Heights’ growth by providing an attractive place for potential investors to stay. Side Two: In the 1920s, the inn served as headquarters for a National Federation of Women’s Clubs convention and hosted delegates from every state. Speakers, entertainers, and educators affiliated with the Chautauqua Movement frequently gathered at the inn or at Keystone Heights’ nearby Chautauqua Circle site. During the 1930s, the inn helped transform Keystone Heights into a summer resort town. During World War II, pilots training at the Keystone Army Air Corps Field and the families of servicemen stationed at Camp Blanding stayed at the inn. The University of Florida football team also enjoyed the amenities of the inn as coaches believed the team played better on game days if sequestered from Gainesville’s pre-game activities. Due to its declining popularity in the early 1950s, the inn was transformed into a boarding house. On October 3, 1954, the third floor caught fire, and the rest of the building sustained water damage. Thereafter, it was left vacant and unrepaired. With a grant from the State of Florida, the City of Keystone Heights purchased the property in 1999. The building was demolished in 2000 due to its neglected condition. The property was converted to a walking park for the residents of Keystone Heights.