Crystal Lake
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Allen Carleton Nydegger

Crystal Lake, also, Allen Carleton Nydegger. , Crystal Lake , Crystal Lake is a central feature of the city of Lake Wales. The development and economic growth of the town is visible throughout the various buildings surrounding the area., The beginnings of the city originated with A.C. Nydegger's survey that was organized on the shores of Crystal Lake. Following the work of Nydegger, this site was also used by turpentine workers who contributed to the rapid pace of economic development in Lake Wales. The construction of the Charles L. Johnson and George V. Tillman houses on the shores demonstrated the great amount of wealth that was prominent in Lake Wales. Cultural developments can be seen with the creation of the nearby Lake Wales Public Library and the Crystal Lake Park, both of which have enhanced the quality of life for the citizens of Lake Wales. , Allen Carleton Nydegger , In the summer of 1911, E. C. Stuart. George V. Tillman Charles L. Johnson and Bernice K. Bullard, investors at the Lake Wales Land Company. hired A. C. Nydegger to complete a survey of the Lake Wales area. The shores of Crystal Lake served as the headquarters for the surveying team and the project lasted ten weeks. Nydegger was paid $8.00 a day plus expenses. His ability to accurately survey and intuitively plan resulted in a design of the Lake Wales area that is still used to the present day. , A. C. Nydegger's contribution to the development of Lake Wales was substan- tial. His surveys of the areas of Lake Wales, Crooked Lake. Dundee and Waverly not only accelerated economic progress, but also created a city plan that still serves as the foundation for the cities to the present. In the city of Lake Wales, his work is best reflected on the streets named Stuart, Tillman, Johnson, Bullard, which were named in honor of the investors of the Lake Wales Land Co. , A Polk County Heritage Site