Lake Wales, Florida
 -- 21380 U.S. 27
 
A sprawling all ground level Motor Lodge, Lake Wales opened in about 1958 and remained a Howard Johnson's until the middle 1980s.
 
 
Postcards circa 1950s-1960s: Kummerlowe Archive
 
Above & Below: An overly ambitious architect's rendering depicted Lake Wales with six guest buildings and an A-frame Gate Lodge. However the property never had more than three guest buildings and its Gate Lodge was a Nims-Ranch!
 
 
 
 
 
Photo December 8, 2007: Kummerlowe Archive
 
 
Photo 2002: Courtesy of Bob Venditti
Left & Below: Lake Wales received an upgrade during the 1970s which included replacement of its Trapezoid highway sign with the more modern roof-logo model. After 1984 the roof-logo sign was removed and possibly recycled. Spotted south of Lake Wales along U.S. 27's east side, a former HoJo's sign came to advertise a bowling alley and lounge. While the sign yet stood in 2007, it had become completely faceless (not photographed).
 
Well-sited, the Lake Wales location served as a convenient place to stay for the many tourists visiting Florida's famous nearby attractions such as Cypress Gardens, Bok Tower, and The Great Masterpiece (Florida's Missing Masterpiece).
 
 
 
Brochure circa 1970s: Courtesy of Larry Passaro
 
 
Photo December 7, 2007: Kummerlowe Archive
 
 
Photo march 2003: Kummerlowe Archive
 
 
Photo 2002 : Courtesy of Bob Venditti
 
Above, Below & Lower: Although considerably altered, the Nims-Ranch Gate Lodge retained its shape and usefulness as a lobby. Note the changes in sign color and stucco paint scheme as documented in this series of photos.
 
Photo 2006 : Courtesy of Bob Venditti
 
 
Photos December 8, 2007: Kummerlowe Archive