Today it is a State Historic Site, open from 8 a.m. 5 p.m. A visit to the ruins is a step back in time. Driving into a clearing of tall pines and grass, the ruins' coquina rock walls become visible just past an old mule powered cane press. Under century old oaks, one finds the old cast iron sugar vats, sugar press and iron lever that was once part of the steam-powered machinery. There is also a short nature trail that wanders through a palmetto hammock, providing a view of what Florida looked liked to settlers in the 1800s.
Admission is free.
T oday in the center of Canova Drive, beachside, the grave of Charles Dummett, still stands. His father, Douglas Dummett, buried Charles where he fell. Developers left the grave where it was, and thus the pavement on Canova Drive is split, leaving the grave in the middle of the street. The rich history of Southeast Volusia, especially New Smyrna, makes it Florida's third most important historical area. Many changes have taken place over the years, some good, some bad.