Journey through history showing six historic homes in Keystone Heights, aimed at raising funds for community projects
Keystone Heights Home Tour (Brooklyn Hayes Yelin, Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.)
CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – A journey through history showcased six historic homes in Keystone Heights, aimed at raising funds for various community projects.
These homes have been a part of the community for nearly 100 years, and residents were invited to explore and learn about their rich histories.
The home tour, a collaborative event organized by the Keystone Heights Heritage Commission and hosted by the Keystone Heights Women’s Club, took place on Saturday, Dec. 21, from noon to 3 p.m.
The proceeds from the sales went to support various community initiatives.
“My heart is full of gratitude for our Keystone Heights Woman’s Club and Keystone Heights Heritage Commission for giving back to our community in such a personal and festive way,” Mayor Nina Rodenroth said. “More importantly, I want to express my most heartfelt thank you to our citizens and visitors for rewarding us with an amazing turnout of 100+ visitors who attended the home tour.”
Keystone Heights Home Tour (Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.)
Guests began their tour at the Keystone Heights Pavilion, receiving a welcome and a map indicating the locations of the homes on the tour.
The first stop was the Lawrence home, built in 1921. Lawrence, the founder of Keystone Heights, chose a Sears Kit home as the model for constructing his residence.
“The Lawrence home was impeccable. It looked like a design magazine!! Every home was beautiful with their Christmas decor as well. Each home had the owners or family members telling some of the history.” Brooklyn Hayes Yelin, Keystone Heights Woman’s Club President said.
Yelin said they hope to do more tours with different homes in Keystone since they all have unique histories.
“It’s important for people today to know where this town came from and how cool it is,” Yelin said. “It’s easy to focus on the bad in a small town, but there is so much good with deep roots here; maybe we can all focus on the beauty of what these original people envisioned!”
Jenn Samsel, WJXT Content Gatherer, Jacksonville
Published: December 26, 2024 at 6:55 PM
