From the WGHF Archives 05.07.15

In 1914, John and Alma Thompson, originally from Ohio, built Windermere’s Rossmore Inn on a bluff overlooking Lake Butler. Noted for its modern amenities, it stood at the western end of Fifth Avenue and stimulated the town’s growth by attracting visitors who built homes in the neighborhood. It eventually was named the Pine Tree Inn. It served guests for fewer than 25 years; the building was destroyed by fire on Oct. 18, 1938.

The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, which seeks to preserve our heritage and architecture while creating new cultural experiences, is celebrating its third decade with the debut of its new History Research and Education Center.