A 13-year restoration of the historic Florida estate of inventor, developer and “Father of Naval Aviation” Glenn H. Curtiss is now complete.
The City of Miami Springs and Curtiss Mansion, Inc. recently held a “Sneak Preview” of the restored historic South Florida home, which was originally built in 1925.
Curtiss, the “Father of Naval Aviation,” moved to South Florida from Hammondsport, New York, during the land boom of the 1920s. From 1920-1930, Curtiss developed the cities of Miami Springs, Hialeah and Opa-locka, before his death in the 1930 at age 52.
Before his untimely passing, Curtiss made a significant impact in the South Florida landscape, officials said. His vision of creating three different geographic areas among the cities allowed him to partner with James Bright, creating landmarks such as Hialeah Race Track. Curtiss’ home is now a center for education, preservation and inspiration.
The legendary Curtiss Mansion, damaged by multiple fires, has taken 13 years of perseverance and a true community effort to rebuild to its original grandeur, officials said. Curtiss Mansion, Inc. (CMI), a Florida not-for-profit organization, was established to take the leadership role in restoring the home.
“I fell in love with the story of Glenn H. Curtiss, and felt it was my duty to be involved in its restoration and share the stories of all unsung heroes,” says JoEllen Morgan, President of CMI. “We are also excited by our partnership with Captain Barrington Irving’s STEM academy to be located at the Mansion in Miami Springs.”
“The City of Miami Springs is proud to partner with CMI; they have done an outstanding job in the restoration of the Mansion,” says Mayor Zavier Garcia. “Our community can only benefit from restoring this national treasure by our Founder and we want to share it with the world,” says City Manager Ron Gorland.
For more information: CurtissMansion.org
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