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Lake Wales Today
By the People, for the People
Florida Governor Unveils Statue Honoring Former President Coolidge
DeSantis celebrates America's 250th anniversary with tribute to Coolidge's constitutional legacy.
Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:06am
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The dedication of a new statue honoring former President Calvin Coolidge at Bok Tower Gardens in Florida reflects the state's efforts to commemorate influential historical figures during America's 250th anniversary.Lake Wales TodayFlorida Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a new statue honoring former President Calvin Coolidge as part of the state's America 250 Initiative to commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary. The statue was dedicated at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, where Coolidge gave one of his last public addresses as president in 1929.
Why it matters
The unveiling of the Coolidge statue reflects DeSantis' efforts to highlight historical figures who embodied limited government and constitutional principles, which the governor sees as important civic values to instill in Florida's education system.
The details
DeSantis praised Coolidge's record as president, noting that he 'governed as a constitutionalist, eliminated debt, balanced the budget, reduced taxes, and promoted a unified American civic tradition and culture.' The governor was joined by Secretary of State Cord Byrd and other state leaders for the statue's dedication.
- The statue was unveiled on April 15, 2026 as part of America's 250th anniversary celebrations.
- Coolidge delivered the dedication address at the site, then known as Mountain Lake Sanctuary, in 1929.
The players
Ron DeSantis
The Republican governor of Florida who unveiled the statue honoring former President Calvin Coolidge.
Calvin Coolidge
The 30th President of the United States, who served from 1923 to 1929 and was known for his limited government and constitutional principles.
Cord Byrd
The Florida Secretary of State who joined DeSantis for the statue's unveiling.
What they’re saying
“As America marks its 250th anniversary, Florida continues to honor influential figures who shaped our nation's history and civic tradition. Today, I unveiled a statue honoring President Calvin Coolidge, who dedicated Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales in one of his last public appearances as President.”
— Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida
“I think if the founding fathers looked over the last hundred years, I think Coolidge would be most of their favorite president for how he was dedicated to limited government and the Constitution.”
— Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida
What’s next
The statue will be a permanent addition to Bok Tower Gardens, where it will be on display for visitors to the historic site.
The takeaway
Governor DeSantis' decision to honor Coolidge reflects his efforts to promote constitutional principles and civic education in Florida, highlighting historical figures who embodied those values during a time of national celebration.
