BOK TOWER
Lake Wales, Florida

Bok commissioned Philadelphia architect, Milton B. Medary, to design and build the majestic carillon tower. Medary’s inspiration was the Gothic towers and churches of Europe with adaption to the characteristics of the Florida landscape.

Lee Lawrie, a noted sculptor from New York, was engaged to design the elaborate marble sculptures that adorn the Tower. The overall design is neo-Gothic with art-deco influences.

Construction of the Tower began in 1927 and was completed in time for the dedication on February 1, 1929.

The major renovations are divided into two phases, Phase I work consists of exterior re-pointing of marble work, and Phase II includes repair of coquina wall cladding. Other work included repair of marble walks around base of tower, repair of internal metalwork, refurbishment of all steel windows, and repair of herons that cap the tower. Phase I, budget was $600,000 and is scheduled for completion Nov. 2003. Phase II budget is $600,000 and is scheduled for completion Nov. 2004.