Celebrate the 200th birthday of railroad magnate and hotel owner Henry Plant with a special lecture, book signing, and of course, birthday cake. The Henry B. Plant Museum and the Tampa Bay History Center join together to honor the man who was instrumental in the development of Tampa.

The highlight of the festivities is a talk by Canter Brown Jr., Florida historian and author of a brand-new biography of Plant. The exciting new book, Henry Bradley Plant: Gilded Age Dreams for Florida and a New South, brings to light new information on the life and times of one of America’s captains of industry.

After his talk, Brown will be on hand to answer questions and sign copies of the book.

In addition to Brown’s talk, visitors are encouraged to explore a special exhibit Henry Plant: He’s More Important Than You Thought. At 2 p.m. there will be a special Upstairs Downstairs at the Tampa Bay Hotel live theater performance featuring Henry Plant.

Plant’s birthday celebration is free and open to the public. The lecture and theater performance will take place in the Grand Salon of Plant Hall. Seating is limited, so visitors should plan to arrive early. Copies of “Henry Bradley Plant: Gilded Age Dreams for Florida and a New South” will be available for purchase. For more information please call 813.258.7302 or email [email protected]