Thurston House Times – Maitland – the 8th “thing”

The 8th of 125 things about Thurston House, us and the City of Maitland…all in honor of our 125th anniversary next July of the founding of Maitland and the completion of  Thurston House.

The 2nd family who owned this home were the Hirsch’s – James & Anna. They were originally from Glencoe, Illinois where he served as mayor. They were very well-to-do and neighbors remember them being chauffeured around in a Cadillac limousine, complete with built in bud vases on the doors. Can’t you just picture that?

1919 Cadillac Limousine

1919 Cadillac Limousine

Thurston House Times – Maitland Backyard Habitat!

We have been certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a Wildlife Habitat. We have a beautiful lake, bird bath, many varieties of trees, lots of flowers & bushes, walking areas….everything that makes life perfect for wildlife. We see many varities of birds here, an assortment of colorful butterflies, and all sorts of other wildlife. It is difficult to imagine that we are only 5 miles north of downtown Orlando, but in the middle of this 8 acre natural paradise. Come see!

Certified Wildlife Habitat

Certified Wildlife Habitat

Thurston House Times – Summer is almost over!

Antonio’s la Fiamma, a continued guest favorite, is almost done with their summer menu. This weeks special feature, among other items – Topped Ciabatta, Pollo alla Malanese, Sorbetto di Fruitta….. Just minutes from Thurston House bed & breakfast, this is a perfect choice for a great dinner. Try their cafe for a more casual dinner, or even for a great lunch. Nothing but the best for our guests!

Antonio's la Fiamma

Antonio's la Fiamma

Thurston House Times – the 7th “thing”

The 7th of 125 things about Thurston House, us and the City of Maitland…all in honor of our 125th anniversary next July of the founding of Maitland and the completion of  Thurston House.

Did you realize that Thurston House is only 5 short miles from downtown Orlando, the City Beautiful? Less than ten minutes drive takes you to the heart of the city, Lake Eola. Just park, stroll & enjoy it all. 

The ampitheater at Lake Eola Park, downtown Orlando.

The ampitheater at Lake Eola Park, downtown Orlando.

Thurston House Times – Maitland/North Orlando

ANNOUNCING…..new at Thurston House bed & breakfast – a Chickering circa 1858 rosewood Victorian Square Grand piano!!! It was a donation for the Maitland Historical Society, but they needed a place to house it until they have their new facility built. Since we already lease the building known as Thurston House from the City of Maitland, and we take wonderful care of that, they knew this was the right place for the piano. It is a beautiful piece of furniture, and fits right into the front parlour like it was made for it. Come see for yourself…book now!

circa 1858 Chickering Rosewood Victorian Square Grand Piano

circa 1858 Chickering Rosewood Victorian Square Grand Piano

Thurston House Times – Maitland book!

HOT OFF THE PRESSES!!!! I just took delivery of a brand new book, Images of America – Maitland. It is a beautiful book chronicling the history of the City of Maitland from it’s start as Fumecheliga (the muskmelon place) to today. It was written by Leslie Kemp Poole with a lot of help and resources from the Maitland Historical Society. You can find them for sale at Thurston House as well as other locations throughout the city.

Images of America - Maitland

Images of America - Maitland

Thurston House Times – WINE announcement!

New wine bar near Thurston House

Just announced by the Maitland Wine Market….their 3rd anniversary is September 3rd! Join them as they open a new wine bar, and really celebrate their customers. The festivites are from 5-8pm and the first glass is on them. Thank goodness they are so close to us, just a short stroll away from Thurston House! Buy a bottle to enjoy back on our beautiful porch over looking Lake Eulalia. Enjoy a rocking chair, watch the night fall, hear the tree frogs, count the stars…

Thurston House Times – Antique Tools!

The Mid-West Tool Collectors Association and the Maitland Historical Society will stage an antique tool show & sale on August 15th. There will be displays and demonstrations of tools & machinery from 1885 to 1910. There will also be tables for buying, selling and trading antique tools with related items. Proceeds will benefit the Waterhouse Carpentry Shop Museum, which was built about 1884 by Maitland settler and builder William H. Waterhouse. The museum is on the National Register of Historic Places.

antique tools

antique tools

The show is held at the Maitland Civic Center, just a short stroll from Thurston House. The show is from 8am – 3pm, and costs $2.

Maitland – Historical Society News!

Beautiful newly renovated interior!

Beautiful newly renovated interior!

Looking for that special place to hold a shower, meeting, party or even a wedding? The Maitland Historical Society just completed renovation of a charming cottage overloking Lake Lily Park. Brand spanking new from top to bottom, you couldn’t pick a more intimate and lovely location for your event. Call the society at #407-644-2451 for more information. The Cottage is just minutes away from us too!