DeFuniak Springs, Florida. Treasure Chest of Victorian Homes
DeFuniak Springs has dozens of historic buildings and places dating back in history. It was created in the 1880s as the home of the Southern Chautauqua.
By Mike Miller Updated May 18, 2023
DeFuniak Springs Florida, is a small town of about 6,283 people in the northwest part of the state.
It is located at the intersection of US-331 and US-90 just north of I-10, about 60 miles east of Pensacola and is the county seat of Walton County.
Lake DeFuniak - DeFuniak Springs is located on Lake DeFuniak, an almost perfectly circular 40 acre spring fed lake.
HISTORY OF DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FLORIDA
This little village at Lake DeFuniak started life as a small way station on the Pensacola & Atlantic Railroad.
It was named after Col. Frederick DeFuniak, an executive of the Louisville-Nashville Railroad.
DeFuniak was a hard-working Italian immigrant who had been an officer in the army of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the George Washington of modern Italy.
He also was an officer in the army of the Confederate States of America. He allegedly won the right to name the town in a card game.
Colonel DeFuniak's descendants still live in north Florida and Alabama.
Chautauqua Brotherhood Hall
Members of a Methodist educational movement called the Chautauqua Assembly, headquartered in New York, further developed the small hamlet.
It soon became their favorite winter retreat, growing in importance and beauty.
Thousands would arrive to participate in the activities and keynote speakers ranged from well-known poets and authors to the inspirational and influential, including Julia Ward Howe ("The Battle Hymn of the Republic") to Harriet Beecher Stowe (Uncle Tom's Cabin).
DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FLORIDA TODAY
Seemingly suspended in 19th century amber, the city of DeFuniak Springs is one of the prettiest in the Florida panhandle.
Numerous Victorian era homes encircle little Lake DeFuniak, and it's at times difficult to tell the old homes from the new ones built in the same Colonial Revival and Queen Anne styles.
The homes and area around the lake are decorated from Thanksgiving to New Year in a celebration called "Christmas Reflections".
There are reportedly over 10 million lights, which reflect off the lake.
Home of Former Governor Sidney J Catts
Photo by Ebyabe
The town has around 200 historic buildings surrounding the lake, 40 or so which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
With such a small population, DeFuniak Springs might just have the most historic sites per capita of any town in Florida.
St Agatha's Episcopal Church
One of the many interesting old buildings is St. Agatha's Episcopal Church.
It is a Carpenter Gothic church in the town historic district at 144 Circle Drive. The church was built in 1896.
Because of the old homes and Walton County's oaks and hilly terrain, DeFuniak Springs sometimes feels more like rural New England than rural Florida.
Circle Drive around the lake, DeFuniak Springs
DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FLORIDA ATTRACTIONS
- Walton-DeFuniak Library. The oldest library in the state of Florida still in use today, in operation since 1887. Some interesting exhibits inside, including an impressive collection of medieval armor from the Crusades and muskets from the American colonial era. There's also a charming little reading garden outside with a view of the water.
- Lake DeFuniak. According to legend it was created by a meteor, but it's most likely a sinkhole lake. Spring-fed and almost perfectly round, though perhaps not as perfectly round as Lake Kingsley 250 miles to the east in Clay County.
- L&N Train Depot. Built in 1882 and once serving thousands a day, it now houses the Walton County Heritage Museum.
- You can also take a walking tour which covers the history of the town, how the Chautauqua Assembly along with easy access to the railroad helped the town grow quickly, and see many of the key landmarks. The whole downtown area has been revitalized in recent years with small shops and local restaurants, and is continuing to grow.
- Chautauqua Vineyards and Winery. A good place to visit and taste some delicious wine.
- In addition to the Christmas celebration, the other large festival held in DeFuniak Springs is the annual Lakefest, held the 3rd week in May. This family-friendly celebration is held to gather and enjoy the lake. Kayaking, Fun competitions, much food, live entertainment, and primitive (tent) camping are among the options during this week.
- History buffs visiting DeFuniak Springs and nearby cities might also enjoy a visit to Eglin Air Force Base, about 45 minutes south. The Air Force Armament Museum is here, with a large repository of historic planes. The museum is free and open to the public.
Mansion in Historic Defuniak Springs
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN DEFUNIAK SPRINGS
Chautauqua Vineyards and Winery: 364 Hugh Adams Rd, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435 - Indulge in a wine tasting experience amidst picturesque vineyards at Chautauqua Vineyards and Winery, where you can savor a variety of locally produced wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Lake DeFuniak: Circle Dr, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435 - Spend a relaxing day by the serene shores of Lake DeFuniak, a natural spring-fed lake known for its beauty and tranquility, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Florida Chautauqua Theatre: 848 Baldwin Ave, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435 - Enjoy live performances and theatrical productions at the historic Florida Chautauqua Theatre, a charming venue that celebrates the arts and provides entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Walton County Heritage Museum: 1140 Circle Dr, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435 - Immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Walton County through exhibits and artifacts at the Walton County Heritage Museum, showcasing the area's cultural past and preserving its legacy.
Kings Lake Campground: 548 County Hwy 181S, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433 - Escape into nature and go camping at Kings Lake Campground, a peaceful retreat offering campsites, hiking trails, fishing spots, and a serene lake for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
DeFuniak Springs Historic District: Downtown DeFuniak Springs - Take a stroll through the DeFuniak Springs Historic District, characterized by its beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings, charming streets, and a sense of nostalgia that transports visitors to a bygone era.
Walton County Farmers Market: 1030 Circle Dr, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435 (Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm) - Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Walton County Farmers Market, where local vendors showcase fresh produce, artisanal goods, crafts, and more, providing a delightful shopping experience for all.
Lakeyard: Baldwin Ave, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435 - Relax and unwind at the Lakeyard, a scenic park surrounding Lake DeFuniak, offering walking paths, benches, and beautiful views that make it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.
Florida Chautauqua Center: 1290 Circle Dr, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435 - Explore the Florida Chautauqua Center, a cultural hub that hosts educational programs, workshops, and community events, promoting lifelong learning and fostering a sense of community engagement.
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park: 2860 Ponce de Leon Springs Rd, Ponce de Leon, FL 32455 (located near DeFuniak Springs) - Embark on a short trip to Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, known for its crystal-clear springs and natural beauty, offering swimming, picnicking, and nature trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Florida's natural wonders.
