News Summary
The historic Moseley Homestead in Brandon, established in the 1880s, is becoming notable as a filming site for the Lifetime thriller ‘Just Breathe.’ Following the passing of Julia Winifred Moseley, an advocate for its preservation, the Timberly Trust aims to maintain the site’s historical integrity during filming while also promoting local history. The movie is expected to generate funds for ongoing preservation efforts, amidst growing concerns about local development impacting the homestead’s historical character.
Brandon – The historic Moseley Homestead, a pioneer home established in the 1880s, is now gaining significant attention as a filming location for a new Lifetime movie titled “Just Breathe.” The homestead is located off State Road 60, west of Lakewood Drive, and aims to preserve the rich history of the area known as Brandon, previously Limona, next to New Hope. This initiative follows the recent passing of Julia Winifred Moseley, a centenarian and passionate advocate for its preservation.
Julia Winifred Moseley, who lived to be 101 years old and passed away on August 9, played a vital role in the establishment of the Timberly Trust, which focuses on preserving the Moseley Homestead. The trust is overseen by a board led by Mark Proctor, whose primary objective is to honor the preservation wishes of Moseley. Notably, she actively participated in trustee meetings, including one held on her 100th birthday on March 21, 2019.
The Moseley Homestead offers visitors a glimpse into life during the turn of the 20th century. As a rest stop for troops traveling to Fort Meade and other military forts in Florida, its historical significance is immense. The property encompasses 15 acres along Tenmile Lake and holds a treasure trove of documents, photographs, and artifacts linked to early Florida history, preserved meticulously by Moseley’s family.
The film crew for “Just Breathe,” a thriller, is committed to maintaining the home’s historic integrity and furnishings while filming on location. David Yates, a former CEO of Clearwater Aquarium and producer of the acclaimed “Dolphin Tale,” is overseeing both the filming process and the preservation efforts. The Timberly Trust hopes that this high-profile filming project will generate funding for ongoing preservation from local officials and private donors. This endeavor has received partial sponsorship from the Florida Department of State, Division of Historical Resources.
In addition to raising funds, the movie will serve as a platform to promote the history of Brandon and the significance of the Moseley Homestead. Yates has been engaging with Julia Moseley’s literary works, including her book “Come to My Sunland: Letters of Julia Daniels Moseley from the Florida Frontier, 1882-1886,” illustrating the importance of preserving not just the structure but also the stories linked to it.
Recently, the home has faced challenges from natural events, as hurricanes have damaged over 40 ancient trees on the property. Fortunately, the structure itself sustained no damage. Plans are underway for a strategic cleanup involving skilled tree removal companies and collaboration with local Boy Scout troops to restore the landscape. A newly formed preservation society, known as Preserving Brandon, is partnering with the Timberly Trust for these efforts.
As concerns about local development grow, preservationists are vigilant regarding a plan recently approved by the Hillsborough County Historic Resources Review Board for a Mitsubishi car dealership near the homestead. While the dealership’s proponents argue that the project complies with land use regulations and will not adversely affect the historic site, preservationists remain dedicated to safeguarding the homestead’s historical character amidst the area’s modernization.
Public awareness efforts are currently underway to attract professional volunteers and solicit help for the cleanup and restoration of the Moseley Homestead. As preservation efforts intensify, the homestead stands as a crucial element in maintaining Brandon’s historical integrity and legacy for future generations.
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Additional Resources
- Osprey Observer: Lifetime Movie Films at Moseley Homestead
- Google Search: Moseley Homestead Brandon
- ABC Action News: Moseley Homestead in Brandon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida
- Fox 13 News: Preservationists Disappointed by Vote
- Google Scholar: Moseley Homestead preservation
- Osprey Observer: Moseley Homestead Cleanup After Hurricane
- Google News: Moseley Homestead
- Fox 13 News: Preservationists Concerned about Dealership Proposal
- Osprey Observer: Timberly Trust Expansion Plans
