Tour the Money Pit Mansion too expensive to restore (2024)

Discover the secrets of this historic mansion

In the heart of Florida sits this impressive Neo-Classical mansion, known as the Money Pit Mansion. Having lain empty for decades, its various owners have been unable to restore it to its former glory due to high costs and substantial damage. Captured by photographer Leland Kent of Abandoned Southeast, step inside this historic home and uncoverits fascinating history.

Once a grand home

Standing strong

An architectural treasure, the enormous mansion survived World War II, unlike many of the grand early mansions that were built in Florida. The home has since been deserted and has fallen into a state of disrepair over the years.

Changing hands

The entire home was constructed using mahogany and was once a place of grandeur, but today sports crumbling ceilings and peeling plasterwork. Still an imposing entrance, the front door is flanked by intricate glasswork, while ornate covings line the ceilings. In a strange turn of events, the lumber tycoon who commissioned the home reportedly swapped properties with the vice president of the local bank as part of a house trade in 1924.

A crumbling staircase

Faded grandeur

Once upon a time, ornate mahogany columns greeted guests in the hallway, along with elaborate plasterwork on the ceiling. However, all that remains now is tired paintwork and leftover doors and panels from numerous failed renovation attempts over the years.

A state of disrepair

In 1990, the home fell into foreclosure and was then listed on the real estate market. However, without a buyer, the historic house was sadly destined for demolition. So, why is it still standing today?

A second chance

The house is said to have been saved from its imminent doom by a local couple who offered the bank $88,000 (£67k). With extensive termite damage to the wooden frame, it was in need of some serious work, at an estimated cost of over $220,000 (£167k).

Hidden treasures

Hopes for restoration

The couple hoped that within five years, the mansion would open to the public as a historic library or a wedding venue. However, donations to the restoration efforts dwindled over time and purported health issues forced them to let the house sit idle. Despite signs of damage, the ground floor has faired well over the years, and the light-filled sitting room still wows with stunning sash windows and archways.

Unique features

It's still clear to see that the Money Pit Mansion is full of beautiful period features just begging to be restored. The dramatic staircase would have once been a prominent feature, leading upstairs to the first floor and beyond to the attic space at the top of the property.

Heading upstairs

According to Leland Kent of Abandoned Southeast, the city took over the restoration project, establishing a nonprofit in 1995 to secure grants to fund the work. Even from the sparse landing, it's clear to see how the home's intricate craftsmanship would really shine following an extensive renovation.

Down to the bare bones

Hidden heights

At 11,000 square feet, the huge home features a vast attic, which would have provided plenty of space for the original owner, the Georgia lumber tycoon, and his large family. With intricate beams and plenty of original woodwork, the vaulted room is nothing short of spectacular.

What could it have been?

With few hints, we can only wonder what the space would have been used for. But with plenty of light and square footage, it could have been a spare bedroom or even a playroom for children. However, today it's scattered with building materials with little sign of its former life.

Raising funds

According to Leland Kent of Abandoned Southeast, a new board was created in 2005 to replace the nonprofit organisation set up by the city authority. However, in the midst of the 2008 recession, no grants were made available by the state, freezing the project in its tracks. It looks unlikely that this vintage electrical system will be up and running anytime soon.

Left to languor