The Enchanting History of Gulfport's Hotel Rolyat

As a realtor and real estate investor, I'm always captivated by the rich history that shapes the communities I serve. One of the most fascinating stories is that of the Hotel Rolyat in Gulfport, which has transformed from a lavish resort to a cornerstone of legal education at Stetson University College of Law. This remarkable building has witnessed grandeur, mystery, and a remarkable evolution, and I’m excited to share its fascinating history with you.

The Visionaries Behind the Hotel Rolyat

In the early 1920s, I.M. "Handsome Jack" Taylor and his wife, Evelyn DuPont, embarked on an ambitious project to create a luxurious enclave along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Inspired by the Mediterranean Revival style, they sought to establish a community that epitomized elegance and exclusivity. The centerpiece of their vision was the Hotel Rolyat, a lavish resort designed to rival the finest hotels of the time. Their dream, called Pasadena-on-the-Gulf, would eventually become a community synonymous with opulence and high society. (St. Peter Ising)

The Grand Opening of the Hotel Rolyat

In January 1926, the Hotel Rolyat opened its doors, revealing a structure designed to capture the essence of Spanish architecture. The main tower was modeled after Seville’s Torre del Oro, and the hotel featured 100 guest rooms, surrounded by fountains, arcades, and lush tropical gardens. It was the epitome of 1920s glamour, attracting prominent figures like baseball legend Babe Ruth and golf champion Walter Hagen to its grand opening. (St. Peter Ising)

The Mysterious Decline

Despite its initial success, the Hotel Rolyat’s fortunes took a dramatic turn. In 1927, “Handsome Jack” Taylor mysteriously disappeared, leaving behind significant debts and an air of mystery that would forever be linked to the building. This, combined with the economic pressures of the Great Depression, led to the hotel’s eventual closure in 1932. The once-bustling resort was repurposed as the Florida Military Academy, marking the end of its era as a luxury hotel. (St. Peter Ising)

A New Chapter: Stetson University College of Law

In 1954, Stetson University College of Law, originally founded in DeLand, Florida, sought to expand its campus and programs. The Gulfport location, complete with the historic Hotel Rolyat, was the perfect fit. Stetson transformed the building into a thriving center of legal education, preserving its architectural grandeur while adapting it for modern academic use. This relocation marked a new chapter for the college and for Gulfport, as the building began to serve as a hub for legal education and development. (Stetson University)

Architectural Significance

The design of the Hotel Rolyat is a testament to the opulence of the 1920s. With its Spanish Revival architecture, the building features intricate woodwork, cypress timbers, and handmade roof tiles imported from Spain. The central plaza, which evokes the feel of a Spanish walled settlement, remains a picturesque spot where students, faculty, and visitors gather. It’s an architectural gem that blends historical grandeur with modern purpose. (Wikipedia)

Conclusion

As a realtor, I find the story of the Hotel Rolyat truly inspiring. From its days as a lavish hotel to its current role as a premier law school, the building represents the resilience and transformation of this vibrant community. Today, the Hotel Rolyat stands as a symbol of vision, history, and opportunity—qualities that also define the real estate market in our area.