Lakeside Inn: The Legacy in Mount Dora

Lakeside Inn is the nucleus of Mount Dora that offers the legacy of frontier Florida. An adventurous and courageous team of pioneers formed a partnership to erect a hotel that was spearheaded by attorney Colonel John M. Alexander, who recruited newcomers to visit and relocate to Central Florida. The partnership of Alexander with Colonel MacDonald and Donnelly family contributed to the early vision of a Florida Inn.

The flourishing orange culture and the intellectual components of Chautauqua shaped the evolving communities and influenced the historic and artistic spirit of modern-day Mount Dora.

Traditionally a seasonal hotel, the recreational oasis is sought after year-round by visitors and organizations who can glimpse a hint of the Gilded age and marvel at the experiences of legendary guests.

Madonna Jervis Wise, a retired educator and historian, currently teaches for the Osher Institute on Adult Learning at USF on frontier history and folklore. Her authored works include A Haunted History of Pasco County, Images of America: Wesley Chapel, Trailblazing Women of Tampa Bay and more, where she utilizes in-depth genealogy and interview skills to relate affectionate stories of pioneering settlers.