About the Eden Gardens

Eden Gardens State Park in Point Washington, Florida was established in 1963 by Lois Maxon.  The beautifully renovated Westley House, built in 1897, is the focal point of the park.  Tourists can take a walk along with the lake, tour the historic sawmill, go fishing and take a relaxing walk through the breathtaking ornamental gardens.

Original Owners

William Henry Westley and his wife built the Westley house in 1897 and ran the Westley lumber company and sawmill until 1953, when his wife Katherine Strictland Westley passed away. The house, the surrounding ten acres of land and businesses that were operating on the property were purchased by a developer. However, the property remained vacant and unused for ten years.

New Birth

In 1963, Ms. Lois G. Mason saw the house and immediately fell in love with it. She purchased the property and land for $12,500. She began to renovate the home in a classic revival style. She made the home a showpiece for her King Louis XVI antiques. Ms. Mason added gardens, enhanced the pond that was already on site. She added thousands of varieties of plants including camelias, heritage roses and many plants from Asia. On December 24, 1968 she gave her home and all real estate to the state of Florida.

Florida State Recreation and Parks

The state of Florida continued to add grandeur to the magnificence of the property. To the pond, a concrete sided reflection pond was added. The gardens were expanded by several gardening clubs throughout the State. A hidden garden was added with complex, interesting trails.