BY ROBIN MIMNA

A community-led initiative is dedicated to preserving Lake Helen’s rich history and distinctive character while preparing for its future. 

Despite recent weather-related setbacks, the initiative continues to move forward with plans for a new pavilion and floating dock at Royal Park.

Drawing inspiration from the historic Harlan House Hotel that once stood on the lake’s shore, the Legacy Project aims to enhance the town’s recreational opportunities while honoring its heritage. (The Legacy Project, a partnership between the City of Lake Helen and the Lake Helen League for Better Living, focuses on historical preservation and thoughtful development.) 

Lake Helen’s origins are closely linked to the vision of Henry DeLand, the founder of both DeLand and the picturesque lakeside town named in honor of his daughter, Helen. 

By 1884, Lake Helen had grown into a vibrant destination. The Harlan House Hotel, a grand two-story retreat, attracted visitors who sought relaxation, boating, and fishing on the lake until it was lost to a fire in 1922. 

The Legacy Project aims to capture that same spirit of community by developing a pavilion and floating dock at Royal Park, designed to reflect the style of the Harlan House boathouse.

The project has raised approximately $65,000 in funds and in-kind donations in three years — however, flooding in Royal Park due to the active 2024 hurricane season caused building delays.

Originally planning to begin with the pavilion, organizers have shifted their focus to Phase Two — the floating dock — until conditions improve. City Administrator Jim Gleason noted that he has been working with former City Commissioner Rick Basso to review the plans for the pavilion. 

“The only factor I think that is now delaying progress is the elevated water level in Lake Helen following Hurricane Milton. Once conditions allow, I am excited for the city and its residents to see this project come to life,” Gleason said.

Basso, who has played a key role in advancing the project, remains confident in its progress. 

“While the hurricane season set us back, we are moving forward with planning Phase Two — a floating dock — which will eventually connect to the pavilion,” Basso said.

Vice Mayor Roger Eckert also expressed support for the Legacy Project’s progress. 

“I look forward to when they will be able to work on the pavilion,” Eckert said. “I am glad they are not waiting.”

Both Gleason and Eckert attended the Legacy Project’s annual fundraising gala on Feb. 27 at Granville Farms, where they showed their continued support for the initiative. The event, themed “Sunsets & Saddles,” celebrated Lake Helen’s equestrian heritage with barbecue, a cocktail bar provided by WanderBar in DeLand, and a silent auction featuring local goods and experiences.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Legacy Award, an annual honor recognizing individuals dedicated to the betterment of Lake Helen. This year’s recipient, Alan “Cookie” Cooke Sr., has long been a pillar of the community. A former city commissioner, Cooke currently serves as chairman of the Lake Helen Planning and Land Development Regulation Committee and co-chairman of the Lake Helen Museum Board. Additionally, he spent 16 years on the Volusia County Soil and Water Conservation Board, where he helped secure millions in funding to protect the region’s water resources.

Cooke’s at nearly every single City Commission meeting, where the city clerk announces his time at the public speaker pulpit with a single “Cookie.”

Upon receiving the award, Cooke expressed his deep connection to the town and its residents. 

“This community is what it’s all about. I am proud to live with and serve all the wonderful people of Lake Helen,” he said.

Preserving the Legacy of Lake Helen

“Lake Helen has always been about preserving its aesthetic and sense of place. The Legacy Project is another step toward safeguarding our history while embracing thoughtful progress,” Joy Taylor, president of the Lake Helen League for Better Living, said.

Gleason expressed his admiration for the ongoing effort. 

“I have had the privilege of working in numerous communities alongside a variety of organizations, but the Lake Helen League for Better Living truly stands out,” Gleason said. “Their positive impact is evident throughout Lake Helen, and the city has greatly benefited from their unwavering commitment to making our community a better place to live.”

For more information or to support the project through donations or volunteer opportunities, please visit www.lakehelenleagueforbetterliving.com.

— Robin Mimna serves on the board of the Lake Helen League for Better Living.