P. Marlin 2019

 

There was a time when Palatka, Florida was sought after as a warm and sunny climate for wealthy families to spend the winter. Today, a drive down Emmett, Kirby, and Rivers streets provides a glimpse into that time as Victorian homes still stand in the historically affluent neighorhood. In the 1880's, James R. Mellon, of the Mellon banking family, built a modest house on Emmett Street for his family. As James and his family spent winters in Palatka, they also invested in the community by contributing funds to build a school and library. One of the distinguishable features of the house is the black and white tile walkway leading to the front door. This feature is visible in recent photos below as well as in an original photo of the house. A series of photos from Abandoned Florida provide a glimpse inside the house.

The James R. Mellon house on Emmett Street in Palatka, Florida. P Marlin 2019

J.R. Mellon Manufactured by Taylor & Dean Pittsburg, Penn. P Marlin 2019

Lily Anderson, Jessie Davis, Margaret Anderson and Mrs. James Mellon at the Mellon Home - Palatka, Florida. Florida Memory

J.R. Mellon house walkway. P Marlin 2019

J.R. Mellon house walkway. P Marlin 2019

Original photo of the James R. Mellon house on Emmett Street in Palatka, Florida. Florida Memory

J.R. Mellon house. P Marlin 2019

J.R. Mellon house. P Marlin 2019