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The main attraction of Eden Gardens State Park is the beautifully restored two-story house adorned with graceful white columns and a wrap-around porch, enveloped by majestic moss-draped live oaks and decorative gardens.

Once the residence of the William Henry Wesley family, this tranquil spot was once bustling with activity both mechanical and human a century ago. The Wesley Lumber Company, in operation from 1890 until the aftermath of World War I, thrived at this location. The company’s assets included a sawmill, planner mill, dry kiln, and a dock for loading barges in Tucker Bayou for shipping lumber.

In 1897, Wesley constructed his home near the mill where his family resided until 1953, the year his wife, Katie Strickland Wesley, passed away. Subsequently, the home was sold with 10.5 acres. A decade later, Lois Maxon was captivated by the property and acquired it, transforming the house into a showcase for her family’s antiques and heirlooms. Ms. Maxon transformed the estate into ornamental gardens, and in 1968, she generously donated Eden Gardens to the state of Florida.

The dedicated staff and volunteers at Eden Gardens take immense pride in safeguarding and conserving this estate for forthcoming generations by presenting its history and assets and nurturing the stunning azalea and camellia bushes that grace the grounds.

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