10/08/2026
The House that Moved Winter Park
Do you remember watching Casa Feliz move?
Twenty-five years ago, Winter Park came together to save one of its architectural treasures. Designed by James Gamble Rogers II and completed in 1933, Casa Feliz had stood overlooking Lake Osceola for nearly seven decades when demolition threatened its future.
Residents rallied to save it. Volunteers, donors, preservationists and community leaders raised the funds needed to give the house a new home. A nesting pair of bald eagles on the property provided the preservation effort with unexpected additional time.
In late summer 2001, that effort became an unforgettable sight: an 800-ton masonry house moving across Interlachen Avenue. Over four days, Casa Feliz traveled approximately 300 yards to its new location overlooking the Winter Park Golf Course. Thousands of spectators gathered to watch, with music and celebrations turning an extraordinary engineering feat into a shared community moment.
The move saved more than a building. It preserved a piece of Winter Park’s identity and demonstrated what our community could accomplish together.
Following careful restoration, Casa Feliz opened to the public in 2005. Today, the historic home museum continues its tradition as “Winter Park’s Parlor,” welcoming visitors for history, music, art, weddings and community gatherings.
To celebrate this remarkable rescue, join Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum on Sunday, October 25, from 11 am to 3 pm for a free, family-friendly gathering filled with music, history, storytelling, food, children’s activities and special anniversary surprises.
