Florida officials on Wednesday unveiled a new statue honoring former President Calvin Coolidge at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, commemorating his legacy and his role in the site’s history. The event was led by Gov. Ron DeSantis and included state leaders and representatives from the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation.

The statue recognizes Coolidge’s visit to the gardens in 1929, when he delivered the dedication address for the Singing Tower sanctuary, one of his final public appearances before leaving office. The monument is placed near the location where that address was given, reinforcing the historical significance of the site.

DeSantis described Coolidge as a constitutional conservative whose presidency emphasized limited government, fiscal discipline, and tax reduction. State officials said the installation is part of Florida’s broader “America 250” initiative, which highlights historical figures, landmarks, and events ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd and other speakers at the event pointed to Coolidge’s belief in civic virtue and the importance of preserving spaces that promote reflection and national unity. Members of the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation also attended, emphasizing the former president’s economic and governing philosophy.

Coolidge, often referred to as “Silent Cal,” became president in 1923 following the death of President Warren G. Harding and served through a period of economic growth during the 1920s. His policies focused on reducing federal spending, lowering taxes, and maintaining a limited role for government.

Bok Tower Gardens, originally known as Mountain Lake Sanctuary, remains a prominent historical and cultural site in central Florida. The addition of the Coolidge statue places him among other American presidents commemorated across the state as part of ongoing efforts to mark the country’s upcoming milestone anniversary.