In May 1981, during a period of record-low water levels in Florida's, a massive opened up near the corner of Denning Drive and Fairbanks Avenue. In a single day the hole widened to 320 feet (98 m) and to a depth of 90 feet (27 m), destroying an import car dealership, a public pool, and large portions of Denning Drive. In addition, the sinkhole "ate" an entire two-story home. The deepest part of the limestone cavern must have been directly under the house as not even the peak of its roof could be seen after the sinkhole stabilized. Fortunately, no one was in the house at the time the cavern roof collapsed. City managed to stabilize the sinkhole, which drew national attention and became a popular tourist attraction during the summer of 1981. A carnival-like atmosphere arose around the area, with vendors selling food, balloons, and t-shirts to visitors. Eventually the novelty wore off as the city repaired the damage and turned the sinkhole into man-made LakeRose, seen in aerial view.
The Langford Hotel served as a gateway to 'Old Florida' attractions in Central Florida and a community social hub for decades.
Famous guests included and his wife, First Lady who celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary thereThe Langford was celebrated in a party late 1999, closed, and was demolished A portion of the former Langford Property (as of mid 2009) has been developed into luxury mid-rise condominiums. The remaining parcel is now vacant and is the future site of a hotel to be owned and operated by RollinsCollege
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