Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic Price Tower, a 19-story skyscraper in Oklahoma, has become the center of a contentious legal battle following its sale for $1.4 million. The building, previously managed by the Copper Tree Group under Cynthia Blanchard, was sold to the McFarlin Building Company, a Tulsa-based property developer, after financial troubles forced the former owners to offload the architectural masterpiece. However, the transaction has been marred by allegations of misconduct and legal disputes, including claims of unauthorized auctions and the sale of Wright-designed fixtures and furniture.
The controversy began when the Copper Tree Group reportedly listed the building on a digital commercial real estate auction platform, seeking bids between $600,000 and $6.2 million, despite an earlier agreement with McFarlin. This move prompted McFarlin to demand a boycott of the sale, leading to the building’s closure in August 2024.
Further complicating matters,the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy,which safeguards Wright’s architectural legacy,has claimed ownership of several original fixtures and furnishings within the Price Tower,including signboards,copper relief panels,and custom-designed tables and chairs. The Conservancy alleges that these items were sold illegally by the Copper Tree Group, violating preservation rights.
Adding to the financial turmoil, the Copper Tree Group reportedly owes $2 million in debts, including loans from local businessmen and community members. The company’s bankruptcy in January 2025 has further intricate the legal proceedings, leaving the future of the Price Tower and its associated funds uncertain.As the building remains closed and without electricity, concerns grow over potential damage during the winter months. The case highlights the challenges of preserving architectural heritage while navigating financial and legal complexities.
key Points at a Glance
Table of Contents
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Sale Price | $1.4 million (IDR 22 billion) |
| Buyer | McFarlin Building Company |
| Previous owner | Copper Tree Group (cynthia Blanchard) |
| Legal Disputes | Unauthorized auction, sale of Wright-designed fixtures, bankruptcy claims |
| Debts | $2 million (IDR 32 billion) |
| Building Status | Closed as august 2024, no electricity |
| Preservation Claims | Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy |
The Price Tower, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1953, remains a symbol of architectural innovation. Though, its current predicament underscores the delicate balance between preserving ancient landmarks and addressing financial realities. As legal battles continue, the fate of this iconic structure hangs in the balance.
Preserving an Icon: The Legal and financial Struggles of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower,a 19-story architectural marvel in Bartlesville,Oklahoma,has become the focal point of a complex legal and financial battle. Following its sale for $1.4 million, the building’s future is clouded by disputes over preservation rights, unauthorized auctions, and mounting debts. We sat down with Dr. Eleanor Carter, a renowned architectural historian and preservation expert, to unpack the ongoing struggles surrounding this iconic structure.
The Sale and Its Controversies
Editor: Dr. Carter, can you start by explaining the circumstances surrounding the sale of the Price Tower?
Dr. Carter: Certainly. The price Tower was sold by the Copper Tree Group, led by Cynthia Blanchard, to the McFarlin Building Company, a Tulsa-based developer, for $1.4 million. however, the sale was far from straightforward. Shortly after the agreement, the Copper Tree Group attempted to auction the building digitally, seeking bids between $600,000 and $6.2 million. This move directly contravened their prior agreement with McFarlin, leading to a boycott demand and eventually the building’s closure in August 2024.
Preservation Battles and Legal disputes
Editor: What role does the Frank Lloyd Wright building Conservancy play in this controversy?
Dr.Carter: The Conservancy is a critical player in this saga. They hold a preservation easement on the Price Tower, which includes ownership of several original fixtures and furnishings, such as signboards, copper relief panels, and custom-designed furniture. they allege that the Copper Tree Group illegally sold these items,violating both the easement and preservation rights. This has led to a legal battle that further complicates the situation.
Editor: How has the Conservancy responded to the lawsuit filed by the building’s owner?
Dr. Carter: The Conservancy has been proactive in defending its position. They’ve filed a legal response asserting the validity of their easement and disputing the claims made by the Copper Tree Group. This legal tug-of-war underscores the challenges of safeguarding architectural heritage while navigating complex property laws.
financial Turmoil and Bankruptcy
Editor: How have financial issues impacted the Price Tower’s current state?
Dr. carter: The financial troubles are important.The Copper tree Group reportedly owes $2 million in debts, including loans from local businessmen and community members.Their bankruptcy filing in January 2025 has added another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings. Consequently, the building remains closed and without electricity, raising concerns about potential damage, especially during harsh winter conditions.
The future of the Price Tower
Editor: What does the future hold for this iconic structure?
Dr. Carter: The future is uncertain. The ongoing legal battles and financial instability have left the Price Tower in limbo. The McFarlin Building Company now owns the building, but the unresolved disputes and preservation claims could delay any plans for restoration or redevelopment. It’s a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between preserving historic landmarks and addressing financial realities.
Conclusion
the Price Tower’s plight highlights the challenges of protecting architectural heritage in the face of financial and legal hurdles. As Dr. Carter explained, the building’s fate hinges on resolving these complex disputes, ensuring that Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy remains intact for future generations.
