Life Explorers Speaker Series: Ashes to Artifacts

Topic: “Ashes to Artifacts: Tracing the Seminole Hotel Through Time” Explore the rich legacy and recent discoveries from the site of Winter Park’s elegant retreat.

Speaker: Christy Knobloch - Executive Director for the Winter Park History Museum

Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025

Doors open: 9:45 A.M.

Program Time: 10:00 - 11:30 A.M.

Location: Azaela Lodge, Mead Botanical Garden, 1300 S. Denning Drive Winter Park, FL

Cost: Free - Join us for refreshments and conversation

A presentation focusing on the rich legacy of the historic Seminole Hotel and recent archaeological discoveries at its original site.

Built in 1886 along the shores of Lake Osceola, the Seminole Hotel was a luxurious winter resort that played a central role in the early development of Winter Park. Known for its grandeur and elegance, the hotel attracted prominent visitors and became a cultural cornerstone until its tragic destruction by fire in 1902.

In this engaging presentation, Christy Knobloch and Dena Salas will recount the hotel’s captivating history—its significance to the community, the lifestyle it fostered, and the mark it left on the city’s identity. They will also unveil findings from a recent archaeological dig at the site of the former hotel, where a varied collection of artifacts was uncovered.

The Life Explorers Speakers Series is held in the Azalea Lodge of Mead Botanical Garden from 10-11:30 a.m. The program is free of charge with light refreshments and coffee served.

To reserve a spot, please visit eventbrite.com. For additional informationon Mead Botanical Garden and the Life Explorer’s Series, please visit www.Meadgarden.org