A Grand Gilded Age Home that is Now a Museum attraction. This Exquisite Home was Built in Moorish Revival Architecture in 1883 by Franklin Smith.
History Festival attendees: receive 50% off Adult General Admission to the Villa Zorayda Museum valid May 6th, 2026 – May 9th, 2026. Tickets must be purchased online at www.villazorayda.com during the valid dates. Enter coupon code histfest26 at checkout. Contact info@
Franklin Webster Smith (1826–1911) was an American reformer, visionary, and entrepreneur whose influence extended far beyond his success as a Boston hardware merchant. An early abolitionist, author, architectural enthusiast, and founding member of the first YMCA in the United States, Smith believed deeply in social progress, civic responsibility, and cultural exchange. He was also a pioneer of early American tourism, drawn to places where history and innovation converged.
In 1883, Smith constructed Villa Zorayda as his winter residence in St. Augustine, introducing a bold architectural vision to the city. Inspired by Moorish and Spanish Revival design, Smith employed a revived ancient building technique using poured concrete, a mixture of Portland cement, sand, and locally sourced coquina shell. This innovative method reintroduced centuries-old construction practices to modern America and left a lasting imprint on local architecture.
Today, Villa Zorayda stands as one of St. Augustine’s most significant historic structures and a remarkable example of Gilded Age ingenuity. Now a museum, the grand home offers self-guided audio tours that explore both its architectural history and its exceptional art collection, assembled by Smith and expanded by the Villa’s second owner, Abraham Mussallem. Together, their stories illuminate a legacy of creativity, global influence, and enduring cultural significance.
Building America, the Life and Vision of Franklin W. Smith, will be on exhibit at the Villa Zorayda Museum May – September 2026. Please visit www.villazorayda.com for more information.
