On Monday, May 19th, the Ocklawaha Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) dedicated a plaque recognizing the accomplishments of three members of the Clifford family on the house built by Guilford Clifford in 1910. Featured speakers were Eustis Councilman and former mayor, Mike Holland, and DAR Florida State Regent ’23-’25, Cindy Addison. Three members of the Clermont area played an important role in that ceremony.
Gayle Everett Tomasini, Ocklawaha Chapter’s Regent (president) ’23-’25, was the emcee; Anita Maiworm, Estero Island Chapter, served as photographer; and Donna DiGennaro, Ocklawaha Chapter 2nd Vice-Regent ’23-’25, was chairperson of the Plaque Committee.
The Clifford House is the oldest structure in Eustis and is constructed entirely of cypress. Situated near Lake Eustis, the neo-classical revival mansion is undergoing a major renovation by the City of Eustis and is on the Nation Historic Registry. One of DAR’s main objectives is historic preservation which made the Clifford House an obvious choice for DAR recognition. The plaque research committee of Stephanie Bender and Donna DiGennaro were able to not only prove the house’s importance to the city of Eustis but also show a direct connection between the house and the Ocklawaha Chapter to which both Mr. Clifford’s Daughter, Lottie, and Granddaughter, Charlotte, belonged.
If you think you might have a connection to the American Revolution in your family, contact Lisa Martin, Registrar of the Ocklawaha Chapter, at lmartinodar@gmail.com
