Deering Estate seeks community contributions for new history project

The Deering Estate, in collaboration with the 100 Ladies of Deering and the Deering Estate Foundation, is launching a community-wide initiative to collect historical documents, photographs, and personal stories to enrich its historical archives. The public is invited to share their unique connections to the estate, helping to preserve and illuminate its rich past for future generations.

Deering Estate, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has a vibrant history rooted in both the natural environment and historic architecture. The site, which includes the 1896 Richmond Cottage and the 1922 Stone House, was once the winter home of Charles Deering, a prominent industrialist, art collector, conservationist, and philanthropist. After his death in 1927, the estate was maintained by his heirs until it was acquired by the State of Florida in 1986. 

To further enhance the historical narrative, the Deering Estate is seeking materials from the community that reflect the lives of those who worked at, visited, or lived near the estate. This includes old family photos, personal letters, business documents, or any other items that provide a glimpse into the estate’s role in the local community.

“Every photo and every story helps us piece together a more complete picture of the Deering Estate’s legacy” said Karen Solms, Chief of Deering Estate. “We know there are countless memories tied to this historic landmark, and we are excited to see and hear the community contributions.”

Interested individuals can share their items or stories by emailing the 100 Ladies of Deering Archive Committee at [email protected]. The Deering Estate and the 100 Ladies of Deering will handle all materials with care and will work with contributors to ensure their stories are accurately represented in the archives.

For example, the 100 Ladies of Deering recently learned that Louise Hill was a key figure in the grassroots campaign to persuade the State of Florida to purchase the Deering Estate and preserve it rather than allow its development. In 1984, as a representative of the Metro-Dade Garden Club Committee, she testified before the State’s Conservation and Recreation Lands Committee (CARL) in support of acquiring “Deering Hammock,” calling it a rare, ecologically rich preserve, full of endangered plant communities and of historic value. Her public advocacy helped mobilize support from local officials and citizens, contributing to the State’s eventual decision to acquire the property for preservation. The documents and artifacts that were part of her efforts are now in the private collection of her daughter, Suzan Ponzoli. If you were part of this citizen’s initiative, we would love to hear from you.

About the Deering Estate
Deering Estate, located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. in Miami, is a 21st Century house museum, cultural and ecological field station, and a national landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, owned by the State of Florida and managed by Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department. Deering Estate is designated as one of seven Miami-Dade County “Heritage Parks” which have a vital role in our community’s history, environment and in providing recreational and cultural experiences. 

About the Deering Estate Foundation
For those who treasure the Deering Estate, who advocate for its preservation and wish to invest in its future, the Deering Estate Foundation provides opportunities for individuals and corporations alike to partake in membership, signature events, and one-of-a-kind experiences, all in service of providing vital funding and support to the Deering Estate. Through these efforts, the foundation fulfills its mission to uphold the legacy of Charles Deering's cherished 1920s-era property, to provide funding for the cultural, educational and recreational experiences it offers, as well as its significant scientific and archaeological endeavors to conserve its diverse flora, fauna and the eight native ecosystems that thrive on its 450 acres, and to ensure its longevity as a prized American heritage site. Established in 1989, The Deering Estate Foundation, Inc. is a community-based charitable 501(c) 3 Florida Corporation and the philanthropic partner of the Deering Estate.

About the 100 Ladies of Deering
The 100 Ladies of Deering is a philanthropic circle of women dedicated to preserving the Deering Estate. Joined in friendship, they work to bring about meaningful change through investments that advance awareness, public engagement and protect the cultural and natural resources to further Charles Deering’s legacy in South Florida. The 100 Ladies of Deering is governed by the bylaws and works in partnership with the Deering Estate Foundation.