From a single log cabin start in 1858, the area around a small lake to the southeast of DeLand remained relatively undeveloped until Henry DeLand turned his hand to it in 1883. He named it after his daughter Helen, established a sawmill, built a hotel and the low key boom was off and running. More recently "downtown" development surrounds an equestrian and recreational area. Dominating one side is a modern industrial complex, once the home of a leading exercise machine manufacturer

     A small quiet community creates the background of rural serenity. Hidden away in Lake Helen's southeastern corner is the unique settlement of Cassadaga. Founded as a "spiritualist" camp in the late 1800's, it is in large part a cluster of tiny cottages placed on land controlled by the organization. There are almost as many "mediums" offering "readings" as cottages. A huge (judged by Cassadaga's scale) 19th century hotel dominates the little community along with a couple of shops that specialize in new age tracts, tapes, and crystals. Deeply religious, there is no doubt as to the sincerity of Cassadagans.

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Lake Helen Area Guide
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The City Observer in Lake Helen

 

Lake Helen, FL (city)
Population (1990): 2344
Location: 28.98372 N, 081.23143 W
Zip Code(s): 32724 32744
Browse Map of area.
Lookup 1990 Census STF1A, STF3A tables.