MOUNT DORA HISTORY MUSEUM

By  Mike Miller July 17, 2025

The Mount Dora History Museum is in Mount Dora, Florida. Housed in the city’s first fire station and jail, it showcases the history of Mount Dora from the 1870s to today.

The museum is managed by the Mount Dora Historical Society, and features exhibits with artifacts, photographs, and documents.

Visitors can explore the town’s past through displays and guided tours.  

Mount Dora History Museum

Mount Dora began in 1874 with settlers like David Simpson. The town was named Royellou after Postmaster Ross C. Tremain’s children, Roy, Ella, and Louis.

In 1883, it was renamed Mount Dora because of its location on Lake Dora.  There is a local myth that it might have been named after an early pioneer, Dora Ann Drawdy.  This has been proven to be untrue.

The museum’s building, built in 1923, served as a fire station and jail.  Exhibits cover the town’s citrus industry, early railroads, and notable residents like John Philip Donnelly, the first mayor.

The museum highlights Mount Dora’s growth from a small settlement to a vibrant town known for festivals.  

The Mount Dora History Museum is at 450 Royellou Lane, Mount Dora, FL 32757, near Donnelly Park. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM.

Call (352) 383-0006 to schedule group tours. The museum is a short walk from downtown Mount Dora. Street parking is available but check local regulations.

Biking is an option, with bike racks outside. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Bring a camera to capture exhibits.

Check the museum’s website for special events like the 40th anniversary celebration on November 8, 2025. Allow about an hour to explore.

• The museum’s building, originally a fire station and jail, opened in 1923 and has preserved jail cells with inmate graffiti.  

• Mount Dora was once called Royellou, named after the children of its first postmaster, Ross C. Tremain.  

• The town’s elevation of 184 feet above sea level makes it one of Florida’s highest points.  

• A copy of Mount Dora’s first newspaper, The Mount Dora Voice, is displayed in the museum. 

MOUNT DORA HISTORY MUSEUM WEBSITE