Henry Flagler Museum - Palm Beach

I have always been fascinated with the history of Henry Flagler and the Florida East Coast Railway. There are many places you can see Flagler's legacy  in Florida but for the ultimate experience I recommend the Henry Flagler Museum in Palm Beach. At a time when nearly all of Florida was wilderness, Flagler had a vision, a blank canvas, and the money to do what he pleased with it. There are very few moments in history where one person had so much power for change and used it so wisely. I remember years ago being introduced to the Henry Flagler story at the Flagler Station Musemm in Key West and later I saw a television special on the building of the Overseas Railroad. Several of the old train bridges can still be seen today on the ride down to Key West.

The Flagler Museum is actually Henry Flagler's Florida home. Walking up to the front door, you get a true impression of it's actual size. The cost to get in is $18.00 and that includes a self guided or guided tour. I opted for the self guided tour and that comes with a handheld audio player to explain the 40 or so stops along the way. As soon as you enter, you know instantly you are in an American Castle. The ceilings alone are phenomenal works of art all throughout the house. Not to mention the grand staircase, courtyard, chandeliers, rare books, and the actual art work. I have put quite a few links in this posting if you are interested, as I was, to research before you visit. You can also check out the photos I attempted to take in my Photo Album. No flash allowed so not my best work.