Tall Timbers Receives Major Grant for Dixie Main House Rehabilitation

Dixie Main HouseThe Florida Legislature approved a $350,000 restoration grant for the historic main house at Dixie Plantation in Jefferson County. The phase I grant was part of the Department of State’s Special Category Grant appropriation request that successfully awarded 33 grants to historically significant properties throughout Florida.

According to project coordinator Kevin McGorty, the grant will provide funds for roof and masonry repairs and upgrade the plumbing and electrical systems to the 14,000 square foot building in preparation for installing a centralized heating and cooling system in phase II.  The total rehabilitation is estimated to take two years to complete and additional fundraising will be needed.

This is truly a unique project that has ramifications beyond saving one building. Located in the heart of the Red Hills Region, the 9,000-acre Dixie Plantation has tremendous potential to be a regional resource for exemplary land management, conservation, education and historic preservation. Under Tall Timbers’ stewardship, Dixie Plantation will be an important research and educational center. Once restored, the mansion will host conferences, meetings, and cultural events that the public can enjoy while also serving as an attractive guest house. The historic house, designed by noted American architect John Russell Pope, will be returned to its original grandeur. The economy of one of Florida’s more rural counties will be enhanced by a vibrant center of activity.

Tall Timbers is grateful for the support the grant received from the Secretary of State, Florida Historical Commission, and the north Florida legislative delegation. In addition, numerous Jefferson County community leaders, landowners, and organizations lent their support to make the grant possible.

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