Support Us Button Widget

Hot homes: Own a piece of Lakeland history

This home in the Beacon Hill Historic District has a story that spans over a century — in fact, it’s almost as old as the City of Lakeland itself.

The exterior of a home is shown in the background, with a sign reading "Beacon Hill Historic District" in the foreground.

If walls could talk, this home would have quite the story to tell.

Photo by Brandon Gengler with G2Media, courtesy of The Lay Group at eXp Realty

Calling all local history buffs: this home located in Lakeland’s Beacon Hill Historic District might be just the thing you’re looking for. 2016 Seminole Trail just hit the market, but it’s not just any historic home.

Located on the corner of Beacon Road and Seminole Trail, the land that the home sits on was sold by the US government to Laura T. Wiggins in 1887 — just two years after Lakeland was incorporated — making her one of the first female property owners in the city.

The interior of a historic home in Lakeland is shown, featuring hardwood floors, a white staircase, and a stained glass window to the left that features a cross.

While many aspects of the home’s interior have been updated, there are still touches of early 20th century charm — like this original stained glass window — remaining.

Photo by Brandon Gengler with G2Media, courtesy of The Lay Group at eXp Realty

Around 30 years later, Wiggins sold the land and the Queen Anne-style home there today was built in 1926 — albeit with a few less modern comforts, like a wine fridge + updated appliances. Before becoming a traditional residential home, the property served as a guest house for a decade.

Now, nearly 100 years since being built, the four-bed, three-bath, 2,304-sqft home is seeking its next owner. Take a virtual tour.

More from LALtoday
There are both benefits and strict guidelines for homes in Lakeland’s seven historic districts. Does your home make the cut?
Check out our guide to the many meaningful murals you can find around our city.
Lakeland’s iconic bird mascot gets an annual visitor in the form of Canadian pelicans.
This is where you’ll find our readers grabbing a bite and catching a game.
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date in Swan City.
Polk is full of special places to stay that offer guests a break from traditional motels and hotels — check out our favorites in and around Lakeland, Florida.
Strawberries, citrus, and sunflowers await at these U-pick spots where you’ll harvest your own bounty.
Whether you’re seeking a new romance or a fresh friendship, we’re asking readers where they go to meet people in Lakeland.
Grab your boo or your bestie to celebrate love, friendship, and everything in between at these events around Swan City.
As Lakeland continues to grow, we’re keeping an eye on upcoming developments and recently opened businesses.