A historic Roman Catholic church transformed into a cultural hub, this building stands as a testament to Lake Wales’s architectural and civic heritage.
At a glance
The Church of the Holy Spirit occupies 1099 Hesperides Road in Lake Wales, Florida. Once an active Catholic parish church, it was repurposed as the Lake Wales Cultural Center following its sale to the city in 1989. The building earned recognition on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
History
The church served the Catholic community of Lake Wales as a place of worship for years before changing hands. In 1989, the local Catholic diocese sold the building to the City of Lake Wales, marking a transition from religious to civic use. The building’s historical significance was formally acknowledged when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 31, 1990.
What you see
The building retains its character as a Roman Catholic church structure. Architectural details and design elements specific to the building’s construction period are preserved within the structure now adapted for cultural programming.
Cultural significance
The Church of the Holy Spirit represents the intersection of religious history and civic culture in Lake Wales. Its listing on the National Register reflects its importance to the community’s architectural and historical record. Today, as the Cultural Center, it continues to serve the public—now as a venue for arts and cultural events rather than religious services.
Key facts
- Location: 1099 Hesperides Road, Lake Wales, Florida, United States
- Coordinates: 27.89388889, −81.565
- National Register of Historic Places: Added August 31, 1990
- Current use: Lake Wales Cultural Center
Practical information & getting there
The Church of the Holy Spirit is located in Lake Wales, in central Florida. It now operates as the Lake Wales Cultural Center and is open to the public for cultural events and programming. For current hours, exhibitions, and visiting information, contact the City of Lake Wales.
Sources & resources
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