Imagine 1800’s Queen Anne style home along the river, where you could stand on the porch and feel the breeze on your face. In Titusville, you can step back into time and visit the Pritchard house. The house was continuously occupied by a member of the Pritchard family until 2005, it was then when then the purchased by the county.
The house was originally built in 1865 and the last resident was Mary Pritchard Schuster, which was the granddaughter. Mary kept original family heirlooms that can still be seen today in the home. Family members have contributed to other furnishings in the house. While the house has never seen any major damages, it has been kept to its original status in the 1860’s. The wallpaper is original along with baseboards and mantles, even down to the tiniest details like doorknobs are original.
The Pritchard’s family is still involved with the upkeep of the house. Mary’s daughter Polly is on the board of directors. The house is under current restoration to make the house look as it did when Captain Pritchard passed away. This era is dated about 1891-1920’s. The house is currently doing fundraisers and tours to raise money for additional help for the upkeep and additional items that the family might not have contributed. The family has donated some items along with the historical society of Brevard County.
If you have not heard of Captain Pritchard let me fill you in on some of his contributions. In 1888, He formed the Indian State Riverbank. This was the first bank in Titusville. Unfortunately, due to the depression it closed in 1928, in which he served as president for 37 years. Him and his son Boud bought a hardware store. The hardware store remained in the family and was open until 1981. Captain Pritchard was also instrumental in starting the first electric power plant in Titusville. Then there was Mary Pritchard who was important in St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church and was president of the Ladies Guild and charter member of the Pythian Sisters. She was an accomplished pianist.
Unfortunately, due to COVID 19 there are some precautions that need to be taken before you visit. The group sizes are smaller, and you need to call ahead to schedule your visit. The Pritchard house has a lot of happenings going on and you can visit their website at
To schedule your visit call 321-607-0203, tours are 15 dollars a person and are held 7 days a week 9am to 4pm.
.
Comments