10/11/2026
In 1942, sailors Jerry and Woody paused for a photo on one of the marble lions John Ringling donated to the Mable Ringling Memorial Fountain in Luke Wood Park.
This beautiful tribute to Mable Ringling—avid gardener, first president of the Sarasota Garden Club’s Founders Circle, and beloved community leader—was dedicated in 1936. It stood as a living memorial to her love of Sarasota’s natural beauty, surrounded by plantings, paths, and a reflecting pool in the park Luke Wood gifted to the city.
But as World War II diverted resources and attention, the fountain and park fell into neglect. Later buried under dirt and weeds for decades, it was partially restored in the 2010s only to have its water and electrical service disconnected again in 2022 because of ongoing maintenance costs.
Today this historic gem sits neglected once more—right at the southern gateway to downtown Sarasota.
Miracle on Mound is working to restore the Mable Ringling Memorial Fountain and revitalize Luke Wood Park so future generations can enjoy its history and beauty.
Photo colorized by AI
Learn more and support the effort: www.miracleonmound.org
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