News

Historic Orman House Returned to Its Stately Grandeur

On January 9, 2026, the Orman House was celebrated by a crowd of history enthusiasts and proud well-wishers who came to see the stunning results of the years-long restoration of the historic home.

Present were members of the Orman family, top brass from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, local Park Service personnel responsible for the daily care of the house, supporters from the Franklin County Parks Friends organization, the Mayor of Apalachicola, and area residents who feel a special attachment to Thomas Orman’s stately home on the Apalachicola River.

Always a prominent player in the city’s river-trading history, the house’s original luster had acquired a dusty patina in recent years.  Not anymore!  A $1.6 million restoration project funded by the state government over several years has returned the house to its original 19^th century glory.

Almost no aspect of the house has remained untouched. Hardwood floors have been refinished; windows, porch railings, and shutters have been repaired or replaced; non-period wallpaper has been removed and walls returned to their original painted plaster condition.  Roofs have been replaced, the exterior has been repainted, grounds have been replanted, and brick walkways added for convenient access.  Less glamorous – but critically important - repairs like floor stabilization, HVAC upgrades, and improved grounds drainage prepared the house for many more years of active life.

Friends board member Linda White has been a volunteer at the house since being recruited by retired Orman House Park Service Specialist Mike Kinnett in 2014.  She has made lasting friendships with Orman family members, resulting in the acquisition of original furnishings and the accurate placement of items in the refreshed displays of 19^th century family life in Apalachicola.  “Removal of the old wallpaper has better exposed the unique period molding that features exquisitely carved corner magnolias,” Linda responded when asked about her assessment of the renovation project.  “The ancestors of Thomas Orman are very pleased with what was done,” she said.

Josh Hodson, Park Manager, praised the “extensive preservation and protection project” that “ensures that this historic landmark will remain in excellent condition for generations to come.”  He credited visiting DEP leadership including Secretary Alexis Lambert and Chief of Staff Chuck Hatcher for the interest and vision to fund the preservation of the Orman House.  Also among the many supporters recognized were Project Manager Don Finkbeiner and District 1 Bureau Chief Sasha Craft.  Contractor Allstate Construction owner Scott Brewer and team members David Fulgham and D.L. Bodiford were onsite keeping a watchful eye on the daily progress of the massive project.

Apalachicola Mayor Brenda Ash described the Orman House as a “symbol of our identity.”  She said, “It reminds us of where we came from, how our city grew, and what we have endured together.  It represents the beauty of our history, the complexity of our past, and the strength of our community.”

When time came to cut the red velvet ribbon at the Orman House door facing the expansive grounds along the river, Orman descendants Mary Grubbs and her brother Paul Andrews were wielding the giant scissors. “It feels good to know that the town and others worked to make this all possible,” said Andrews, who had come to the celebration from his home in North Carolina.

And with a historic snip and a cheer from the adoring crowd, the majestic Orman House was reopened to the people of Apalachicola and to visitors from around the country and the world for years to come.

Temporary Closure of SGI State Park Campground (Update!)

Temporary closure of the campground is currently scheduled for March 16, 2026.  We anticipate that the campground will be closed to overnight guests for approximately one year while we add 30 campsites and a new bathhouse to serve that area.  The camping reservation system will re-open when construction is completed.

Chapman Botanical Garden

The Chapman Botanical Garden closed for construction work on January 12, 2026.  The Garden will remain closed for 6 to 7 months while a pavilion that can be used for weddings, family reunions, and community events is built.  Restroom additions are also underway.

Check Out Our New Facebook Page!

The Friends of Franklin County State Parks are happy to announce that our new Facebook page has been completed! Click here to like us!