“Christmas Spectacular!” 2024 - 2025

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Christmas…The Season For Believing

By JT Thompson

WRITTEN tOUR

By JT Thompson, Designer

Welcome!

We would like to welcome you to the Stetson Mansion’s 13th Annual “Christmas Spectacular!” For those of you returning, welcome back! If this is your first visit, my name is JT. I am not only one of the owners, but I am also the sole designer. Believe it or not, I locked myself away in the Mansion for 3 months to transform it into what you are about to see. As you walk from room to room, I hope you leave the world far behind and escape into my world of pure imagination and wonder as we celebrate the greatest gift of all.

Foyer/Grand Staircase - Coming Home for Christmas

Walking through the front doors of our 1886 Victorian home is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas. After all, it was the Victorians who established our modern traditions of gift-giving, Christmas cards, decorated Christmas trees, and the Santa Claus that we all know and love today.

To your immediate left is the Grand Staircase themed Coming Home for Christmas. The village tree that you see was created from a childhood memory I have of a fantastical story of a village encapsulated within an ancient towering tree nestled high above the clouds. As a kid growing up in the projects of Newark, NJ, this was where I dreamed of escaping. I also wanted guests to envision themselves traveling through the snow-capped mountains with a glistening midnight sky as their backdrop. Who knows maybe you traveled by train much like the antique one displayed on the lower landing.

The villagers have turned the town center’s clock on the second landing into a wintry, woodland masterpiece. Featured 20 feet above the staircase is a depiction of Santa’s arrival into the village. This beautiful quilt won first place in the prestigious Paducah, KY quilt show. In front of the Grand Staircase, this rustic nativity is the first of almost 50 nativities proudly displayed in the Mansion.

As you turn away from the Grand Staircase, you will be entering the Reception Parlor.

Reception Parlor - Mapping Out Christmas

The Reception Parlor is duly named Mapping Out Christmas because this year we are hosting Santas from around the world as they plan their new Christmas routes. On your left, as you enter the room is “Ruber Rideshare” chauffeuring Santas to and from the conference. Rudolph is ever so professional as he dons his custom cap. As you can see, one Santa is just arriving with the ever-so-crucial naughty/nice list which is still in the works. Other Santas are patiently waiting for the next sleigh departure. Across from “Ruber Rideshare” is the official welcoming committee. These Santas ensure that everyone gets their name tags, maps, and a welcome cocktail. The President of this year’s conference seated on the sofa is diligently surveying maps from across the globe. Only high-clearance Santas are allowed to access these secret routes so don’t try to sneak a peek.

Above the fireplace, you will see Santa painstakingly working out all the final requests from the international Santas. The garlands on and around the fireplace add to the celebratory feel of the event. The garland on the beam above the alcove features dozens of Christopher Radko Santas paying homage to the ever-so-proud guests of honor. Looking at the soaring mountains in the distance, one can see how they perfectly frame Santa’s utopia, the North Pole. One can only imagine how frantic the elves and Mrs. Claus are working to prepare for the seasonal rush. The task at hand is a serious one but the Santas also like to incorporate fun into all aspects of their duties.

Decked out in traditional Christmas colors, the tree featured in this room adds to the fun, festive atmosphere. Who wouldn’t want to spend Christmas morning opening gifts in front of this tree? Even at this late date, letters are continually being dropped off in the mailbox.

Entertainment is a must at every Santa expo. This year is no exception and we are thrilled to welcome the winners of 2024’s North Pole’s Got Talent acapella singing group, The Kringleiers. It’s time to let the santas get back to work so it’s on to our next room, the Music Room/Library - Stetson - An American Icon.

Music Room/Library - Stetson, An American Icon

One of the most iconic symbols of Americana is the Stetson cowboy hat and this year I am paying tribute to the man, the brand, and the legacy. Two of the nativities displayed in this room are to your left. The one on the coffee table we acquired during our travels in Europe and it is awash with the glow of a heavenly light. The stained glass nativity next to the armoire is over 50 years old.

Further to your left is a vignette paying tribute to one of Mr. Stetson’s proudest accomplishments, Stetson University. The University began as DeLand Academy but after Mr. Stetson endowed it in 1889, it was renamed Stetson University, Florida’s first University. Follow me over to the mirror and below it you will see a saddle from 1906 which is the same year as Mr. Stetson’s passing. The wagon wheel is similar to the ones on the horse-drawn carriage that you see reflected in the mirror which was also painted in 1906. Michael’s family heirloom reminds us of that era’s mode of transportation.

The garland on the ceiling beam is swarming with cardinals darting about the greenery and vines. I specifically used cardinals in this room because they were a favorite of Mr Stetson. He loved them so much that he placed feeders around the Mansion that attracted cardinals as well as planting some of the cardinal’s favorite trees, such as flowering dogwood, crabapple, and viburnum. I especially love the adage that “when cardinals appear, angels are near” reminding each of us that the spirit of our loved ones is never too far away. To get a better look at the intricately carved detailing on the beam, step further into the room and look up on the other side. Below the ceiling beam the bronze horse, Dreamer, stands valiantly representing one of a cowboy’s greatest assets. Antique bells from the 1800’s are draped over his back. You may want to pay special attention to the train coach light under the desk. This is an original coach light from one of Henry Flagler’s private trains, another of Mr. Stetson’s friends.

I designed this Christmas tree to have a more masculine feel. I used a lot of red, copper, and natural elements to help achieve it. The Stetson memorabilia surrounding the tree is a reminder of just how vast the Stetson empire was and is. Atop the cabinet behind the loveseat sits the most expensive Stetson hat ever made…the Diamanté. It features an 18K gold buckle with white diamonds and is made out of beaver and chinchilla fur. It comes in a beautifully hand- tooled leather hat box also on display. I’m sure this is at the top of many cowboys Christmas wish lists. Behind the hat, a single flickering bulb pays tribute to Mr. Edison who electrified the Stetson Mansion making it one of the first homes in the entire world designed and built with Edison electricity.

Standing in front of the fireplace, your eyes are drawn to the large horse head made from chicken wire, an old Christmas tree, and highlighted with hand-glittered copper and gold magnolia leaves courtesy of Mother Nature. I continued the masculine theme with red and gold accents, berries, and beautiful hand-blown ornaments. Looking to the left of the fireplace, one may wonder why an Indian princess is included in the room. It is because Mr. Stetson worked so closely with the Indians who provided him with various pelts and all sorts of bird feathers for his hat embellishments. He had a great affinity for the native Americans. As we leave the Stetson tribute room, make a right as you prepare to go into the Dining Room, which has been taken over by a band of feisty fairies.

Dining Room - Christmastime In Our Enchanted Woods

This entire room was inspired by a little 7-year-old girl who I overheard one year saying “Mommy wouldn’t this be a great place to have an enchanted tea party”? So I took her idea and ran with it. Fairies have taken over and, as you can see, have made themselves more than comfortable in what used to be the Dining Room. Displayed on the table on your right is a beautiful hand-painted bisque nativity which is decades old. The serene garden setting below the nativity features an angel solemnly rejoicing the blessed child’s arrival. Standing in front of the fireplace, you can understand why our impish little fairies are so smug about their magical transformation. Inside the fireplace, our Make-A-Wish fairy encourages all to partake in the season of giving.

On the mantel and above in the wreath, frolicking fairies take a few moments from their daily chores to welcome our guests to “their” holiday hideaway. To the left of the fireplace, three of the lead designers sit back basking in the magnificence of their creation. You may notice they even placed hundreds of pieces of bark on the mirror so that it would meld with their overall design. Their playful antics never overshadow the miracle of Christmas which is why they’ve incorporated five additional nativities from around the world into their display.

The dining room table is now a forestry work of art that uses the best of all that Mother Nature has to offer. And, of course, the most famous fairy of all graces the top of the table…Tinker Bell. As tempting as it might be, please do not eat any of the mushrooms on the table because the side effects may leave you in a state of fairy-induced euphoria. The specially prepared desserts on the plates and hanging from the chandelier are made by none other than our Coffee and Dessert fairies and will be enjoyed by their special guests, Mr. and Mrs. Claus. As you can see, the fairies aren’t necessarily the neatest of house guests either. Almost every surface is covered with fairy dust. They even claimed under the dining room table as part of their domain so be sure to take a look.

You may have noticed that a tree has suddenly sprouted up from the floor bending across the beautiful beam. Not just any tree though…this is a gathering tree where the fairies hang out, show off their gymnastic maneuvers, and strategize their next exciting adventure. Even fairies need a place to retreat too so they figured that since the Mansion has a meditation garden why shouldn’t they? Beyond the tattered fence and down the cobbled path, they can escape into their very own indoor oasis complete with reclaimed items from around the Mansion. The young girl, who inspired it all, is reading some of her favorite tales in this fantastical retreat.

As you make your way around the dining room table, there are three custom-made fairy residences on the wooden shelf. The driftwood piece hanging above finds another one of the fairies chilling out while he swings the day away. The original corner hutch cabinet normally houses the Mansion’s china but as you can imagine the fairies have no use for that so they opted to make it a part of their fairy wonderland. The very top-of-the-corner hutch features a poignant interpretation of the greatest gift ever bestowed to mankind. The hand of God presents the Christ child unto the world as the heavenly light of the Holy Spirit washes over all. As we leave this enchanted room, we will be entering the Kitchen which is aptly named On This Day.

Kitchen - On This Day

Just before entering the kitchen on your left in the coffee bar is a scene depicting the Wise Men’s first glance of the Christ Child. As you enter the Kitchen, I wanted you to feel as if you were walking through a bustling ancient marketplace where goods and trinkets entice weary travelers to enter their shops. On top of the table, three opulently dressed Magi have stopped along their star-guided journey to the Christ child as their camels rest beneath them for the long travels ahead.

The largest nativity in the Mansion is featured at the end of the kitchen island. The barn was brilliantly crafted by a former guest who just so happened to be in her 80s! And the papier-mâché nativity is one that Michael treasures most because it has been in his family for so many decades. The golden accented Christmas tree on the right has several nativities from around the world placed within it. Nativities from many different countries are a reminder to each of us that although the depiction of the blessed event may look different, the overall message of the Christ Child’s arrival shines through.

The silhouette scenes above in the glass kitchen cabinet boxes simply yet dramatically detail the holy journey. As you look into the Butler’s Pantry, the churches harken back to one’s memories of Christmas Eve or Christmas morning services. I wanted the center of the scene to give the feeling of candles flickering in the church as you might light a candle for loved ones. Leaving the kitchen from the door you entered, we will be turning right down the hallway where you will be greeted by some very special guests.

Servant Staircase - Christmas Greetings from the Frost Family

Let me introduce you to the Frost family….Jack Frost, his wife, Dee Frost, and son Seymour Frost. They are so proud to be wearing their custom-made Stetson hats for their guest appearance. Blocks of ice have been supplied by a local ice company to ensure they are comfortably frozen throughout the season. We are so grateful to the Esposito family for these one-of-a-kind custom creations. Make sure you hold on to the railing on your way up the stairs and at the top turn right to see the Black and White Bathroom, Elf Wash and Fold.

Black and White Bathroom - Elf Wash and Fold

Sometimes I just don’t know when to say no. This year some industrious younger elves asked if they could convert the bathroom into their very own wash and fold service. Little did I know that their work ethic wasn’t as up to par as the elder elves. Looking through the glass door, elves hopped up on peppermints and candy canes are swinging on haphazardly strung clotheslines. Senior elves from North Pole Laundry Services are here to surveil the situation. Please don’t knock on the door or wave at the little guys because they are way too easily distracted. Continue straight ahead and make sure to get a birds-eye view of the Grand Staircase before entering the Elizabeth Suite, A Celestial Celebration.

Elizabeth Suite - A Celestial Celebration

The golden glow emanating from the room draws you in while the elegant and shimmering ornamentation is a feast for the eyes. Focusing your attention on the dresser, to your right, you’ll see that the antique porcelain Christ child from Spain takes center stage for a more dramatic up-close view. Angels reverently stand by watching over this precious infant. The abundantly sumptuous garland surrounding the mirror is the perfect way to frame the “greatest of all” gifts.

The fireplace glows with a golden haze while the garlands above and below the mantel overflow with silver and gold embellishments perfectly suited for the holiest of families represented by the nativity from Jerusalem. The golden angel joyfully trumpets the Christ Child’s arrival. Turning towards the alcove, you will see a crystalline garland accented with gold and silver branches draped over the antique floor mirror. Heirloom ornaments dangle from the mirror highlighting the angel below. All the while the angelic cherub sitting above basks in the glory of the moment.

The ceiling beam displays a garland encrusted with over 300 glistening ornaments encapsulating every square inch of the greenery. As if that wasn’t enough, hundreds of brilliant Swarovski crystals drip from the garland. Their sparkling reflections dance ever so gracefully around the room adding to the magic of this holy occasion. The bejeweled garland sweeps across the golden headboard crowning the platinum-hued nativity that is awash with a heavenly light. The piece de resistance are the two gloriously commanding custom-made angels flanking each side of the bed triumphantly heralding in the blessed event. The next room you will be entering is the Gillen Suite themed this Christmas as Peacock Pageantry.

Gillen Suite - Peacock Pageantry

John Stetson’s wife, Elizabeth, loved peacocks so my way of paying tribute to her is to design a room featuring peacocks every Christmas. This year, the peacocks are parading themselves around the room as if being judged in a pageant. Situating yourself in front of the fireplace finds you face to face with our regal peacock as he looks out upon the competition with a look of superiority. In his eyes, his vibrantly adorned jewel-toned perch and surrounding garlands ensure that he will be crowned the most beautiful of all! The fireplace screen dating back to the time of Mr. Stetson is the perfect accessory to complete the scene.

Turning towards the desk, an ethnic nativity is set within an elegant, rustic backdrop. Around the world, it is common to see peacocks as part of the nativity because they are symbols of transformation, prosperity, and new beginnings which explains why one is perched above this scene.

The imposing Peacock Goddess in the center of the bed exudes an air of strength and beauty. Her over-the-top luxe headdress only reinforces her reign as Goddess. Naturally, it takes a female to keep all these proud peacocks in line. Who best to crown the grand champion?

Let’s not forget the Christmas tree. The magnificently flamboyant specimen atop the tree is the epitome of confidence and pageantry. I hand-placed over 1,000 sequins over his body and wings while further embellishing his tail with colorful pampas plumes, glittering turquoise, 150 peacock feathers, and hundreds of lights. This guy is definitely in it to win it! Hopefully, the weight of his ostentatious tail doesn’t topple the tree over. Watch out below!

Two of my favorite acquired items that we purchased during the restoration are the antique peacock lamp and the peacock bronze statuary on the highboy. As we leave the peacock competition, the blue and gold nativity completes the scene. Passing through the bejeweled swag curtain, we are entering into the Master Suite this year called A White Christmas with Bing.

John B. Stetson Suite - A White Christmas with Bing

You just might want to throw your scarf on as it’s a little bit chilly in here. I designed each vignette as if it were its own oversized snow globe. The wintry park scene on your right is the perfect place to take a break after a day of sledding and skating. It reminds me of how I would play to exhaustion after a big snowfall when I was a kid. The highboy on the left finds Santa traversing through the “fur” tree forest accompanied by some of his polar friends. The mirrored dresser captures the perfect moment in time when a little child hears the much-anticipated footsteps of St. Nick.

The large decorative wreath caps off the fireplace while the mantel and surround add to the wintry white Christmas feel of the entire room. Turning to face the bed is my homage to Mr. Christmas himself, Bing Crosby. Scenes from some of Bing’s most popular Christmas movies are featured on the bed including my favorite, The Bells of St. Mary’s.

The Italian imported nativity on the vanity highlights the season’s greatest gift of all. The glowing balls are a representation of the Holy Spirit’s presence. Turning towards the Master Closet, I pay tribute to our brave men and women who are serving or have served in the Armed Forces. Michael and I are especially proud to include our Dads in the display. My Dad is pictured on the suitcase and Michael’s Dad is on the shelf along with John Stetson, Jr. who proudly served in WWI. The bluebirds on the white tree symbolize courage, bravery, and loyalty while the suitcase represents a soldier’s final journey home. Standing patriotically to the left of the Christmas tree is an original 1940s Uncle Sam cutout beckoning all with the call “We Want You.” Bing Crosby as well as many other celebrities of his day were great supporters of the USO providing much-needed distractions and joy to our soldiers overseas.

So this brings us to the end of our tour. As you are leaving the Master Suite, please proceed to the staircase and be sure to hold on to the handrail while going down. Please don’t forget to say goodbye to the Frost family and meet me in the courtyard for a special farewell.

A FAREWELL IN THE COURTYARD

First of all, thank you for including a tour of the Stetson Mansion as part of your Christmas celebration for the past two decades. Sharing our home with guests from around the world has been an absolute privilege and from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for allowing us to be part of your Christmas celebrations for so many years.

Many of you may have heard that Michael and I have passed the torch and will no longer be in charge of the day-to-day operation of the Mansion. This also means that this was my final season as the creative force behind our “Christmas Spectacular!” These past 13 years I have allowed my imagination to run wild as I single-handedly planned, designed, and implemented every scene, room, and concept. Reflecting on this journey leaves me with a profound sense of joy and gratitude. For me, our Christmas Spectaculars have been so much more than just beautiful Christmas displays. They have been a way to connect with people and to share in their holiday joy while creating lasting memories.

This incredible landmark that we have been so blessed to call home for so many years has become a gathering place for friends, family, and loved ones, a place where the spirit of Christmas is alive in every corner. I hope that when you think of your time spent with us over these past years it will evoke cherished memories and warm smiles. The great news is that two awesome families, Frank and Kayla Jennings and Bill and Paige Jennings, will be taking over the helm and we hope that you will welcome them with the same kindness and encouragement that you showered on Michael and me. They are excited to find new ways to welcome even more guests to the Mansion as they bring back the guided, historic tours and offer the Mansion for storybook weddings and special events. Kayla and Paige are especially excited to be the resident designers for Stetson Mansions “Christmas Spectaculars!” going forward. We look forward to seeing how this exciting new journey unfolds for them.

As you walk across the courtyard, please be sure to visit the original 1886 schoolhouse which has been converted to a gift shop filled with many treasures including items that I have used in the Mansion over the years. Michael and I want to wish you and your family a Christmas season overflowing with joy, love, laughter, friendship, and good health. We hope that your journey through our home today has filled your hearts with the magic of Christmas so much so that it will carry you through the new year. To each and every one of you, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

See you at the Christmas Mansion!

JT Thompson, Designer