The Hernando Sun recently revisited the now-iconic 1970 family road trip that inspired the creation of Florida House, the only state embassy in the nation and a home for Floridians in Washington, D.C. The story begins with Rhea Chiles and her family, who found themselves hopelessly turned around near Dupont Circle while visiting the capital. As the cars rolled slowly past embassies of Canada, Denmark, and other nations, one of her children innocently asked: “Where is Florida’s embassy?” That offhand question planted a seed in Mrs. Chiles’s mind. “Why shouldn’t Florida have its own welcoming home in D.C.?”
In 1972, Rhea Chiles discovered an abandoned Victorian-style home built by architect Edwin C. Manning, who also built the Library of Congress. Although the house was not in the best shape, Rhea Chiles saw its potential and was drawn to its prime location. The former Manning House was located near the Supreme Court and across from the Capitol. Rhea Chiles raised $120,000 to purchase the house and spent $5,000 of her own money on renovations.
On October 26, 1973, what began as a simple idea officially opened its doors as Florida House. The Florida House is a nonprofit, nonpartisan place dedicated to serving visitors from Florida and sharing the state’s culture with people from across the country. It is privately funded with no taxpayer dollars, supported by Floridians who believe their state deserves a welcoming presence in the nation’s capital. Visitors are greeted with a complimentary glass of Florida orange juice, a symbol of the state’s agricultural heritage and signature hospitality. Inside the House, guests will find rotating exhibits that highlight Florida’s rich history, featuring centuries-old maps and artifacts that celebrate innovative Floridians, wildlife, and cultural traditions. Permanent displays honor Florida’s Indigenous communities and the diverse people who shaped the state’s identity.
The Hernando Sun, a locally owned and community-focused newspaper, has become an important voice in preserving Florida’s history, culture, and civic identity. As one of the few independent newspapers still thriving in the state, it plays a crucial role in elevating stories that might otherwise go untold, stories that celebrate Florida’s heritage, honor its leaders, and connect residents with the institutions that shape their communities. Its commitment to in-depth reporting and local storytelling makes it a trusted source for Floridians seeking to understand both their roots and their role in the broader national landscape.
That’s why the Hernando Sun’s decision to highlight the Florida House is so meaningful. By sharing the origins of the only state “embassy” in Washington, D.C., the paper helps Floridians rediscover a unique piece of their identity and civic pride. The Florida House is not just a historic building; it is also a symbol of hospitality, culture, and connection for every Floridian traveling to the nation’s capital. Through its coverage, the Hernando Sun ensures that more residents learn about the resource created for them, the legacy behind it, and the ongoing work that continues to welcome, educate, and unite Floridians far from home.
Written by Cynthia Ellerson, Fall 2025 Intern