Historic Bok Sanctuary (formerly Bok Tower Gardens)

Edward W. Bok, editor of the Ladies' Home Journal, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, humanitarian and philanthropist, spent winters on the Lake Wales Ridge, peninsular Florida's highest point at 298 feet above sea level. Liking the pines, the upland habitat, the dramatic sunsets and bird life, he decided to preserve the Iron Mountain hilltop and create a bird sanctuary. Mr. Bok called upon the finest artisans of the day to create the gardens and belltower. Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. was commissioned to design a subtropical garden. Philadelphia architect Milton B. Medary designed the majestic marble and coquina 205-ft. tall Singing Tower that houses one of the world's finest carillons. Master metalworker Samuel Yellin and sculptor Lee Lawrie's works adorn the Tower.