Clifford House Museum

The Clifford House, located at the corner of Bay and Bates Streets in Eustis, Florida; is in a graceful antebellum style, complete with a deep porch that extends across it's façade and around much of one side. Its low lines, broad massing, balustrade window's walk, and double-columned, pediment two-story entry speak volumes of easy living in the long-ago South.

Guilford Davis Clifford, a native of Rome, New York, moved to Florida in 1874 and owned and operated the Eustis General Store. He began building this 4,500 square foot home for his family in January of 1910. The home was occupied by three generations of the Clifford family from Thanksgiving 1911 until the passing of his grand-daughter Charlotte Taylor Wilson in 1983 at the age of 96.

The many volunteer members of the Eustis Historical Society operated the museum for more than 45 years, and were instrumental in maintaining the integrity of the home for the enjoyment of many generations to come. For several reasons the group disbanded in late 2023 and operations of the Clifford House were transferred to the City of Eustis, who has owned the home since 1979. 

The home is currently under renovation, including a rebranding of the space to focus on the history of the Clifford Family and their significance in the establishment and growth of the City of Eustis. The City plans to also later include a variety of rotating Eustis historical exhibits, a Christmas Walk, and many other community driven events. 

The grounds of the historic Clifford House are also home to the only independently housed citrus museum located in the State of Florida. At one time Eustis was known, both nationally and internationally, as the “Orange Capital of the World”. The museum contains a large, formally displayed collection of labels, posters, utensils, tools, equipment, and other memorabilia, relating to the citrus industry in Florida.

As part of the efforts of the America In Bloom Committee, which promotes beautification through education and community involvement, the grounds are also being redeveloped. Efforts can already be seen in the flowerbeds surrounding the home, while additional sidewalks and extensive gardens are being added. 

The Clifford House Museum will soon open for regular tours, while the Citrus Museum will be open for special events and upon special request prearranged with our museum staff. The community gardens will always be open for residents and visitors to enjoy.