Welcome to Lake Helen, a charming slice of Florida’s history, named after Helen Parce DeLand, daughter of the town’s founder, Henry DeLand. Established in 1888, this quaint town offers a rich tapestry of stories from the past. Henry DeLand, a prominent businessman from New York, was captivated by the area’s natural beauty and potential. In 1876, he began purchasing land, eventually amassing about 1,000 acres. By 1884, DeLand had surveyed and mapped out the town, naming it after his beloved daughter, Helen.
Lake Helen quickly became a destination for winter visitors, thanks in part to The Harlan House, a hotel opened by DeLand on Thanksgiving Eve in 1884. Named after his son, Harlan Page DeLand, the hotel was a hub of activity until it tragically burned down in 1922. This two-story structure, with guest boats docked at its front, was not just a hotel but a community center that welcomed tourists and locals alike.
The town’s historic district is a testament to its Victorian past, with 71 historic buildings that stand proudly, echoing stories of yesteryear. One such building is the house at 113 N. Prevatt Ave., constructed in 1895 by Henry DeLand himself. This house, along with others in the area, showcases the architectural elegance of the Victorian era. James Prevatt, after whom the street is named, was the first judge of Volusia County and a significant landowner. His influence in the area is undeniable.
Lake Helen is not just about structures; it’s about community and culture. The town hosts a biennial Christmas Home and Garden Tour, where history comes alive as visitors explore the well-preserved homes of early settlers. The Lake Helen Congregational Church, founded in 1887, is another historical cornerstone. This church, with its New England-style gingerbread trim, has served as both a place of worship and a public meeting space since its doors first opened in 1888.
In the 1960s, Lake Helen found itself on the national stage when Arthur Jones, the inventor of the Nautilus fitness machine, established his company here. This brought a flurry of sports celebrities to the town, adding a modern twist to its historical narrative.
Today, Lake Helen remains a peaceful, rural retreat, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore its rich history and serene landscapes.
