08/23/2026
In the 1880s, B.J. Johnson, founder of the Johnson Soap Company, began wintering in Orange Park, Florida, seeking relief for his daughter Karrie’s health. The family stayed near the Park View House, now the site of Moosehaven, and later rented a home built in 1870—believed to be connected to the Kingsley Plantation—which became their seasonal residence for many years.
In 1906, Karrie and her husband, John Albert Ferguson, purchased the home and named it Winterbourne. In 1917, her brother Caleb Johnson—who had renamed the family business to Palmolive Soap Company—purchased 20 acres of the property. He and his wife Elinor built a Mediterranean-style estate named Mira Rio, completed in 1923. Caleb passed away a year later, and Elinor continued to host friends and family during Florida’s social season.
Mira Rio eventually passed to Caleb’s granddaughter Margo Massee Tisdelle and then to her brother Caleb “Jon” Massee. By 1966, the upkeep of the estate had become impractical. Rather than tear it down, Jon Massee transformed it into The Club Continental, a private member club that preserved the home and provided the community with a recreational space.
In 1980, Jon purchased and restored Winterbourne, which had left the family in 1952. His wife, Fredrica, developed it into a charming inn and event venue.
The historic River House, once North Florida’s first golf clubhouse, was saved from demolition in 1976 by Fredrica Massee. Moved beside The Club, it was restored and opened as a lively pub by their daughter Jeanne and her husband Bill Patterson.
Today, The Club Continental includes a fine dining restaurant, tennis courts, swimming pools, and guest rooms. Managed by Jon’s daughter, Karrie Massee, it continues to thrive with over 700 members who cherish its charm, history, and the timeless beauty of Old Florida.
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