Tampa, Florida — A nearly century-old mansion tied to the early history of Davis Islands has officially hit the luxury housing market, giving buyers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Tampa’s past.
The historic property, known as the Arthur Milam Mansion or Ivy House, has been listed for $4.65 million and is already drawing attention for its striking appearance, rich history and architectural significance.
Historic Mansion Dates Back to 1925
Located at 301 Caspian Street on Davis Islands, the castle-like estate was originally built in 1925 for developer Arthur Milam, a key figure involved in the early development of the area alongside Davis Islands visionary D.P. Davis.
The mansion stands out for its ivy-covered exterior and timeless design that has survived for nearly 100 years. The property includes six bedrooms, six full bathrooms and three half-bathrooms, along with a later addition that expanded the home while preserving much of its original character.
Despite renovations over the decades, many of the mansion’s historic elements remain untouched.
The original entryway, floors, ceilings, walls, doorknobs and private balconies overlooking a central courtyard are still intact, offering a glimpse into Tampa’s architectural past.
A plaque outside the property also confirms its place on the National Register of Historic Places, adding to its historical importance.
Designed by Prominent Tampa Architect
The mansion was designed by Franklin Adams, an architect well known throughout Tampa for creating several important local landmarks, including Plant High School and Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church.
Arthur Milam built the estate during the earliest development phase of Davis Islands, before the sudden death of D.P. Davis changed the trajectory of the ambitious waterfront project.
Historians say the mansion represents one of the few surviving homes from that original era of construction.
According to local experts, roughly 100 buildings were created during the foundational period of Davis Islands development. However, decades of redevelopment, demolition and Florida storms have significantly reduced that number.
Today, fewer than half of those historic structures are believed to still exist.
Current Owner Calls Home Truly Unique
Current homeowner Sherry Paniello, who purchased the property six years ago, described the estate as unlike anything else in Tampa’s real estate market.
“It’s unique. You’ll never find another house like this,” Paniello said. “It’s just amazing how they thought of the vision of building this house back then.”
The mansion’s historic charm and architectural detail continue to impress visitors and real estate professionals alike.
Realtor Brenda Kennedy emphasized the emotional connection many people feel when stepping inside the home.
“You have to appreciate the history of it. This is part of Tampa,” Kennedy said.
She added that she often touches the mansion’s walls and imagines the stories they could tell from nearly a century of Tampa history.
Historians Stress Importance of Preservation
Tampa historian Rodney Kite-Powell from the Tampa Bay History Center said surviving homes from the city’s early development period are becoming increasingly rare.
As hurricanes, redevelopment projects and aging continue to threaten historic properties, preservationists believe homes like the Arthur Milam Mansion carry even greater significance.
The mansion now stands not only as a luxury property but also as a symbol of Tampa’s early growth and architectural legacy.
With the home officially on the market, many are watching closely to see who will become the next owner of one of Davis Islands’ most historic estates.
Would you pay millions to own a piece of Tampa history like this? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
