The Thomas Center: Where History Meets Culture in Gainesville, FL
The Thomas Center: Where History Meets Culture in Gainesville, FL
Website: http://www.historicthomascenter.org/
Address: 302 NE 6th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601
Take a Tour With StayGainesville: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wf7D1dq-9g4
The StayGainesville Connection: The Thomas Center is within walking distance of many of our rental properties, including the Laurel Oak
and Camellia Rose Inns. It's the perfect place for a picnic, mediation, NIA, yoga, or just relaxing. The Thomas Center has many sections and is large enough to find a private spot even if it's busy. The Thomas Center is a regular destination for one of StayGainesville's owners, Susannah Peddie- it's just 2 blocks from her home.
Nestled in the heart of Gainesville, Florida, the Thomas Center is the perfect spot for a visit at any time of the year. The idyllic climate and beautiful surroundings make a visit to our facility and the surrounding community a splendid place to spend an afternoon, a day or an extended stay.
Sunkist Villa: Family Home
Construction for what is now known as the Thomas Center began in 1906 and was completed in 1910. It was named “Sunkist Villa.” Major William Reuben Thomas, his wife Kathryn and their five children made the impressive estate their home for 15 years.
Major W.R. Thomas: Innovative Thinker
Major Thomas began his career as an educator and later pursued his other interests which included general merchandising, banking, hotels, land development, retail furniture sales, and politics. Thomas served as an alderman, mayor and senator. Major Thomas played a key role in ensuring the growth and economic sustainability of the city by spearheading the committee to bring the University of Florida to Gainesville.
The Hotel Thomas: Thriving Business
With the addition of a three story wing, the family home was remodeled into a Mediterranean Revival-style hotel with Italian Renaissance decorative motifs. The Hotel Thomas was opened on January 10, 1928.
Its 94 guest rooms, three dining rooms and four lounges were the preferred lodgings of many distinguished guests including Helen Keller, Robert Frost, visiting athletic teams, vacationing tourists, wandering businessmen and newly employed university professors. The beautiful landscaped grounds and gardens provided space for quiet walks, garden parties, and annual Easter egg hunts.
Santa Fe Jr. College: Educational Facility
In 1968, the family decided to sell the property. The new owners leased the buildings and grounds to Santa Fe Junior College for seven years.
The Thomas Center: Cultural Hub
In 1972 when a rezoning request went before the city’s planning board to raze the hotel, the neighborhood residents began a resistance movement. The site was listed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1973 and was purchased by the City of Gainesville in 1974. The original house was restored and designated as a cultural center.
This nearly grand old building is the setting for contemporary art exhibitions, multiple period rooms and numerous historical exhibits. Its meeting rooms and performance spaces have become sought-after venues for weddings, conferences, and social events. The Thomas Center provides a versatile space which contributes to the cultural, civic and social life of Gainesville.
In addition to its visual arts programming, The Thomas Center also serves as a hub for performing arts and cultural events. Throughout the year, the center hosts a variety of concerts, theatrical productions, film screenings, and lectures that showcase the best of Gainesville's cultural heritage and contemporary arts scene. Whether you're in the mood for a classical music recital, a contemporary dance performance, or a thought-provoking lecture on local history, The Thomas Center has something for everyone to enjoy.
But perhaps the most enchanting aspect of The Thomas Center is its lush gardens, which serve as a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. Designed by renowned landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman, the gardens feature a dazzling array of native plants, exotic flowers, and meandering pathways that invite visitors to explore and unwind. From the fragrant blooms of the rose garden to the serene beauty of the lily pond, The Thomas Center gardens are a feast for the senses that provide a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
As The Thomas Center continues to evolve and grow, its impact on the cultural landscape of Gainesville is undeniable. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural programming, The Thomas Center remains a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, serving as a beacon of inspiration, creativity, and community engagement. Whether you're drawn to its historic charm, its artistic offerings, or its serene gardens, one thing is certain: The Thomas Center is a true gem that embodies the spirit of Gainesville and the timeless allure of the arts.
Accommodations:
Looking for a place to stay while visiting the local Gainesville attractions? Look no further than Gainesville's locally owned vacation rental company, StayGainesville. Book directly on our site, or call us at 352-519-3994 for guidance. For homes and condos, StayGainesville has many options- large and small/ budget and luxury, and more. For a shorter stay, we have 2 beautiful historic Inns in downtown Gainesville. The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn- both have unique personalities and they both feel like a home away from home.
Looking for more things to do in Gainesville? Visit our Things to Do
link.
The Independent Alligator featured The Laurel Oak Inn and The Camellia Rose Inn in article about the 4 locally owned bed and breakfasts in Gainesville, FL. Read about the rich history of the Inns and how Gainesville local Susannah Peddie has been a huge historic preservationist in town- not just with the Inns, but with her own home in the historic Duckpond and her 2 historic rental properties in The Duckpond. All of the Bed & Breakfasts in Gainesville are locally owned and operated.
Investment Potential: A Gateway to a Thriving Market
Archer Place isn't just a fantastic place to live; it's also a compelling investment opportunity. Gainesville's growing population and the University of Florida's continued prestige create a strong demand for high-quality housing. By investing in an Archer Place condominium, you're not just acquiring a luxurious home; you're investing in a thriving market with a promising future. Archer Place is a perfect place for a vacation rental property. Contact StayGainesville to find out more details about vacation rental property management services in Gainesville, FL.
