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The Wilsonian, a 16-unit apartment building at 183 Lake Morton Drive, has been sold to a company managed by a local real estate developer, with plans for a “much-needed renovation,” according to the listing agent for the sale.
Lake Morton Holdings LLC, managed by Lakeland developer Wesley Beck, president of Aspyre Properties, also acquired the adjoining property at 120 E. Palmetto St., which includes a duplex, as part of the sale.
On Oct. 5, the historic property was sold by the trustee of the Joseph Frederick Lohr Revocable Living Trust to Lake Morton Holdings LLC, according to county property records. Documentary stamp taxes on the deed indicate a transaction value of $1.55 million.
A Century of Lakeland History
Built in 1922, the Wilsonian was the work of prominent Tampa architect Bayard Clayton Bonfoey, who previously partnered with M. Leo Elliott to design Tampa City Hall and the DeSoto County Courthouse in Arcadia.
The Wilsonian was named for its original owner, Dr. Crawford Clayton Wilson, a physician who arrived in Lakeland in 1917, according to a City of Lakeland historical post.
Wilson and his family were among the building’s first residents, alongside bankers, business managers, and traveling salesmen.
The two-story, U-shaped building opened during Lakeland’s 1920s boom with 16 apartments — eight two-room units and eight three-room units. Each featured a Murphy-style foldaway bed, a compact Pullman-style kitchenette, and a sleeping porch.
Craig Morby of Saunders Real Estate posted about the sale on Oct. 10, saying he was “excited about the next chapter for this special property.” He also referenced “plans for a much-needed renovation” but did not provide specifics.
LkldNow sought comment from Beck but did not receive a response before publication.
Renovations on the Horizon
The building has a recent history of code violations involving electrical systems, plumbing, windows, doors, and interior maintenance.
City records show that code violations involving two apartment units resulted in a combined $25,400 in fines during 2024 and 2025. Both were brought into compliance in April 2025, although the status of any remaining fines or liens has not been confirmed.
The property’s sales listing advertised an asking price of $1.9 million. The listing stated the building “would greatly benefit from some cosmetic and structural upgrades” and suggested the next owner could restore its former appeal.
Morby said the planned renovations “will help breathe new life into the building while preserving its place in Lakeland’s history.” He welcomed the property’s continued local ownership, saying the buyer “recognizes and appreciates its history and significance to our community.”
This article was updated with additional historical information.
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