During our Florida drive from Key West to the mainland, we made a brief overnight stop in West Palm Beach. Although somewhat out of the way, we wanted to visit the Flagler Museum. After all, Henry Flagler was a primary force in Florida development.
If you're unfamiliar with Flagler, he was one of the founders of Standard Oil Company, in Ohio, and the owner of the Florida East Coast Railway. This railway company established rail service throughout Florida, including over water to remote Key West.
In early 1880s, Flagler moved to Florida and, in 1888, opened his Ponce de Leon hotel in St. Augustine. He continued building Florida hotels and expanding his railroad to support his businesses.
In 1902, Whitehall, located in Palm Beach became the winter home to Flagler and his wife, Mary Lily Kenan. The house had 75 rooms and cover 100,000 square feet. The house extends over three floors and a basement, There are 12 guest bedrooms and a central courtyard. In the late 1950s, the home was in danger of being demolished. After successful restoration, the home opened as a museum in 1960.
Also located on the museum grounds is Flagler's private railcar. Constructed in 1886, this railcar was built for Flagler's private use. The railcar interior has been restored to reflect its 1912 appearance.
If you're in Palm Beach, a visit to the Flagler museums is well worth a stop. We find peeking into the homes of gilded age industrialists is always a fascinating step into the past.
Where to Stay
There are many hotels to choose from in Palm Beach. Most can get expensive during winter high season. We stayed at the West Palm Beach Hilton, primarily because we are Hilton Honors members and the location was close to the Flagler Museum.
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