The Ringling News

18 November 2024

Keeping up with Ca’ d’Zan

by The Ringling

In late September, Ca’ d’Zan was closed due to storm surge from Hurricane Helene. The basement, which houses systems such as the HVAC that power the historic home, was flooded, and these systems no longer work. Thankfully, the collection within the house did not sustain any damage. The lower terrace also suffered significant damage because two boats rammed into the structure. The boats were removed prior to Hurricane Milton, which hit nearly two weeks later, so that the terrace was not further damaged. 

With the help of Florida State University (FSU), we moved quickly to stabilize Ca’ d’Zan as temperature and humidity control are integral parts of maintaining our collection within the house. We rented a large portable HVAC system, and it is stationed outside the home.  

It was our intention to replace the historic roof and the aging HVAC system in 2025. The hurricanes expedited our plans, and we are working very closely with FSU to begin these updates and repairs.  

We understand that Ca’ d’Zan is an important and fascinating part of John and Mable’s legacy at The Ringling, and we want to share it with you. During the time it is closed, we will connect you to Ca’ d’Zan through other resources and programming. Below are a few ways you will soon be able to experience the home:  

  •  Join our NEW tour called The Ringling’s Legacy Tour. This new walking tour will take you on a journey, from 16-year-old John Ringling’s first year running a circus to the lasting cultural impact he and his wife Mable left behind in Sarasota, Florida.  
  •  Walk around the exterior of Ca’ d’Zan; once the portable systems no longer obstruct the ability to navigate the terrace safely.
  • Click here to explore the architecture of Ca’ d’Zan

While it is not the path we had planned, The Ringling, along with our community, is resilient and looks forward to welcoming you back inside Ca’ d’Zan as soon as it is safe to do so.