Markland House special holiday tours

For only the second year such tours have been offered, Historic City News readers have been invited to participate in special holiday tours of Flagler College’s Markland House, 102 King St., December 18th and 19th then again on January 1st and 2nd at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

This property shares a rich history with both the Ponce de Leon Hotel and Flagler College. It was home to Henry Flagler’s personal physician during the Ponce de Leon Hotel’s early days and later to State Rep. Bill Proctor when he became president of Flagler College.

Today Markland House is primarily used for special events at the college, as well as some faculty and staff offices. The downstairs level retains much of its original look, particularly the dining room and library.

During their tour, visitors will glimpse some of the original grandeur of this historic home as well as learn some background on the residence and its importance in St. Augustine’s rich history.

“We get requests all the time from people who want to see the inside of Markland House,” said Flagler’s Legacy Director Samantha Palmer. “They want to see what’s behind the gates. We are so excited to once again offer this tour to the St. Augustine community.”

Admission for the tours is $25, but each tour is limited to 25 people, and reservations are required. Visitors can add the traditional Flagler’s Legacy tour of the former Ponce de Leon Hotel for just $7. For more information, visit http://legacy.flagler.edu. To make reservations for the Markland House tour, call Flagler’s Legacy at (904) 823-3378.