The Ponce, St. Augustine


The Ponce, the former Ponce de Leon Hotel, is now the Flagler College in St. Augustine. The Spanish Renaissance design structure was built in 1888 as a luxury property by Standard Oil co-founder Henry M. Flagler, who left his imprint around South Florida. It was one of the first buildings in the country to be wired for electricity. The power was supplied by DC generators installed by Flagler’s buddy, Thomas Edison.  In 1967 the hotel ceased operation and in 1968 became the centerpiece of the new Flagler College. The property was restored to its original grandeur with a renovation campaign starting in 1976.

As you can see from the photos, the Ponce is in remarkable condition. With its design flourishes it is simply a beautiful property. Here are some of my elevations and detail photographs. Click on individual photo for full screen display

King Street View

Ponce d Leon arch

Detail

Vestibule

Ceiling in main building

Frog Fountain

Grounds

The Old Man Himself

Using Format