William Julius Krome Statue at Losner Park
A Tribute to a Pioneer of South Florida’s Development
Who Was William Julius Krome?
William Julius Krome, Chief Engineer of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad, was a pioneer whose vision transformed South Florida. Arriving in Homestead in 1902 as a Florida East Coast Railway engineer, he mapped routes through the wilderness, including Krome Avenue. His surveys led to the "Over-Sea Railroad" following the Florida Keys, bypassing the Everglades. As Chief Engineer of Construction, he overcame hurricanes and harsh terrain, completing the railroad in 1912—a feat of innovation and determination.
Beyond engineering, Krome saw Homestead’s agricultural potential, becoming one of Dade County’s first commercial growers of citrus, avocados, and mangos. He and his wife, Isabelle, played a role in founding Islamorada. After retiring in 1919, he focused on horticulture, a legacy continued by his family until 2022.
William J. Krome (1876 – 1929) – “A pioneer whose determination bridged communities and brought dreams to life.”
Meet the Artists: Lee Leuning & Sherri Treeby of Bad River Artworks
The William Julius Krome Statue was crafted by the talented sculptors Lee Leuning and Sherri Treeby, the artists behind Bad River Artworks. Formed in the
late 1980s, Bad River Artworks is known for its highly detailed and historically resonant bronze sculptures. Their unique "continuous critique" approach ensures that every piece they create captures realism and storytelling in a way that resonates with the public.
With over 70 public, life-sized sculptures placed across the country, Lee and Sherri are among South Dakota’s most prolific bronze sculptors. Their award-winning works have been recognized in sculpture walks and public art competitions nationwide, earning multiple People’s Choice Awards for their ability to create art that is both meaningful and widely appreciated.
Together, Lee and Sherri bring history to life through their sculptures, ensuring that their work not only preserves the past but also inspires future generations. The William Julius Krome Statue at Losner Park stands as a testament to their craftsmanship and commitment to storytelling through public art.
Artistic Vision: Capturing a True Pioneer
Lee Leuning and Sherri Treeby’s vision for the William Julius Krome Statue was to create a highly realistic and historically significant sculpture that captures an important moment in Krome’s life. Their approach focuses on storytelling through form, ensuring that the statue is not only a work of art but also a powerful historical representation.
Scale & P
resence: The statue was designed to be 6'6" or taller, giving it a commanding presence that instinctively conveys Krome’s strength and leadership.
The Story in Bronze: The artists envisioned Krome as a pioneer surveyor, marking his way through the wilderness—an image that perfectly reflects his contributions to South Florida’s development. Just as Homestead’s name evokes the pioneering spirit, this statue symbolizes Krome’s role in shaping the region’s future.
A Legacy in Metal: Crafted in modern silica bronze, this statue is built to last over 10,000 years, ensuring that Krome’s legacy endures for generations.
The artists emphasize that historical sculptures should not be limited to a checklist of attributes but should instead capture the essence of the subject in a way that resonates with the community. This philosophy has guided them in the creation of many iconic public sculptures across the nation, and the William Julius Krome Statue is no exception.
By collaborating with the City of Homestead, Leuning and Treeby have brought Krome’s pioneering spirit to life—ensuring that this tribute stands as a powerful reminder of the city’s roots and the man who helped forge its future.
