DONNELLY HOUSE

By  Mike Miller November 6, 2026

The Donnelly House is one of the most recognizable historic buildings in Mount Dora, Florida. Built in 1893, this beautiful Victorian home stands on North Donnelly Street, across from Donnelly Park in the heart of downtown.

With its decorative woodwork, steep rooflines, unusual angles, and elaborate porches, the house looks like something from a nineteenth-century picture book.

Its architectural style is known as Queen Anne, with elements of Steamboat Gothic. The elaborate wooden trim has earned it the nickname "Gingerbread House."

Today, the Donnelly House is a favorite subject for photographers and a reminder of Mount Dora's early days as a small Central Florida settlement.

The house was built by John Philip Donnelly, one of Mount Dora's most influential early residents.

Donnelly arrived from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1879. He became involved in real estate, citrus growing, and several business ventures that helped the little community grow.

In 1881, he married Annie McDonald Stone, whose family owned considerable property in the area. The couple became prominent members of the developing town.

In 1893, Donnelly built the impressive home for Annie. Its elaborate architecture reflected the family's prosperity during Florida's early development years.

Donnelly helped establish the Mount Dora Yacht Club and became the town's first mayor when it was incorporated in 1910.

Annie died in 1908. In 1924, Donnelly sold land across the street to the town for $45,000, with the understanding that the new park would be named in her memory.

That property became Annie E. Donnelly Park, still a popular downtown gathering place.

John Donnelly died in 1930.

The house eventually became the home of Mount Dora Masonic Lodge No. 238. On April 4, 1975, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of its architectural importance.

The Donnelly House is located at 535 North Donnelly Street, Mount Dora, Florida 32757, just a short walk from downtown shops, restaurants, and antique stores.

The house is privately maintained by the Masonic Lodge and does not have regular public visiting hours. Interior tours are occasionally offered during special events and fundraisers. Visitors should check for scheduled tours before planning to enter the building.

The exterior can be admired from the public sidewalk throughout the year.

A good place to photograph the house is from Donnelly Park across the street. Take time to notice the intricate wooden decorations, porches, and Victorian details.

The Donnelly House is a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in Old Florida history and architecture.

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