Legend or Lore... An elegant example of Victoriana, harkens to the turn of the century when Key West’s illustrious pioneers, pirates and buccaneers who trafficked the Caribbean, took up residence in this city of wreckers. This 2 1/2 story, 3-bay clapboard manse, nearly hidden beneath tall palms, is located on the property of The Old Pirates House. Very private, yet only a few blocks off Duval, it’s close to the waterfront and Mallory Square. The fanciful home is distinguished by a wide veranda framed by double porch columns, elaborate decorative gingerbread, and shuttered French doors. Ceiling fans, polished hardwood floors and spacious rooms mark this residential prize. The tropical garden, shaded by lush plantings, features a small pavilion and lovely black-surfaced pool. One hundred and fifty years ago, the property was owned by the Philippe family. Born a Count in Lyons, France, Dr. Odette Philippe became a British prisoner of war during the Battle of Trafalger. Banished to the Bahamas, Philippe later set sail for Florida and halted by pirate attack escaped to safe
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