If you want to learn about Florida’s history, you’ve got to go to its roots. Located in the historic section of Eau Gallie, the Historic Rossetter House Museum is one of the most popular places in Melbourne, Florida for history buffs.
Eau Gallie was established in the mid-1800s as a small agricultural city in Brevard County. Today, it is part of Melbourne, Florida and home to the enchanting Historic Rossetter House Museum.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Historic Rossetter House Museum
1. The museum represents the legacy of several prominent families who impacted Florida’s history.
The Historic Rossetter House Museum consists of two houses: the James Wadsworth Rossetter House and gardens, and the William P. Roesch House.
In 1908, James Rossetter came to Eau Gallie to build a home for his family. Rossetter and his family had deep roots in Florida and made their way south to Eau Gallie by Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railway.
When Rossetter and his family arrived, Eau Gallie only had a population of about 200 people. Rossetter quickly became a successful merchant in the fishing industry and an agent for the Standard Oil Company.
What about William P. Roesch? Like Rossetter, William Roesch was also a prominent resident of Eau Gallie. His house is located right across the street from the James Wadsworth Rossetter House. Roesch was a man of the community, serving the people as the postmaster, newspaper publisher, and mayor. His home dates back to 1901.
2. There’s also an interesting cemetery at the Historic Rossetter House Museum.
One thing you can’t miss when you visit the Historic Rossetter House Museum is the Houston Family Memorial Cemetery. This cemetery dates back to 1865 and currently has 12 graves in it.
Who was the Houston Family? The Houston family were some of the earliest settlers in Brevard County. They called their home Arlington, which later became Eau Gallie. It is believed that John Houston and his slaves built the initial structure on the same property where the Historic Rossetter House stands today.
3. All of the furnishings are original at the Historic Rossetter House Museum.
When you visit, you’ll be amazed by the authenticity of the Historic Rossetter House Museum. Every piece of furniture, except the curtains, were either owned by Mr. and Mrs. Rossetter or collected later by their daughters, Caroline and Ella, during the time they lived in the home as adults.
Tours At The Historic Rossetter House Museum
Next time you’re near Melbourne, set aside some time to take a tour of the Historic Rossetter House Museum. Tours are offered every week on Wednesday through Saturday. The duration of the tour is only about 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll see the interior of the homes, the garden, the cemetery, and one of the owner’s original Model A car.
If you’re looking for some fun, go on one of the ghost tours of the Rossetter House Museum.
Where To Stay When You Visit The Historic Rossetter House Museum
There are two Select Registry Inns near the Historic Rossetter House Museum. Each property has passed a rigorous quality assurance test to ensure it provides an exceptional lodging experience.
If you’re dreaming of the Caribbean, book a stay at the Windemere Inn by the Sea Bed and Breakfast in Indialantic, Florida. From its bright exterior to its private beach, this Florida bed and breakfast will make you feel as if you’ve just arrived in Saint Martin. The Windemere Inn by the Sea Bed and Breakfast has a total of 11 rooms, including a few that are kid and pet-friendly.
Another option is the lovely Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast, located right across the street from the beach. This Melbourne Beach, Florida bed and breakfast is the ideal choice for someone seeking ocean views, expansive private porches, and spa like amenities. Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast has a total of 10 rooms, all situated around its bubbling spa pool.
