Tampa Bay History

Long-lost cutter, local memory and mural outside our door

The wreckage of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Tampa has been located off Cornwall, bringing new attention to a World War I tragedy remembered in a mural outside the Tampa Bay History Center.

Apr 30, 2026

Tampa Bay History

Meet the History Center’s incoming president and CEO

After a rigorous international search and a unanimous vote of confidence from the Board of Trustees, the Tampa Bay History Center has named Audrey Chapuis as its next President and …

Nov 13, 2025

Tampa Bay History

Maps, law, and leadership: Rodney Kite-Powell joins “May I Inquire?” podcast

Discover how maps shape history and influence leadership in this engaging episode of "May I Inquire?" featuring Rodney Kite-Powell and Michael Silver.

Jul 28, 2025

Education Tampa Bay History

Upcoming events still on at the Tampa Bay History Center

As the community continues its recovery, we want to reassure you that our upcoming talks, tours, and annual gala will proceed as planned at our Water Street location.

Oct 17, 2024

Tampa Bay History

City of Tampa’s Archives Awareness Week: July 14-20

Since its establishment in 1987, the City of Tampa Archives and Records Division has been dedicated to chronicling the city’s growth and diverse heritage through historical preservation. The Archives’ role …

Jun 29, 2024

Tampa Bay History

A little bit of Tampa in (almost) every brick

The Tampa Bay Hotel, now the University of Tampa’s Plant Hall, is one of Tampa’s most notable and important landmarks. However, did you know that many – though likely not …

May 05, 2024

Tampa Bay History

St. Petersburg’s Million Dollar Pier

Public waterfront access has been a symbol of St. Petersburg for well over 100 years. Peter Demens built the first pier for his Orange Belt Railroad in 1889. However, city …

Apr 28, 2024

Tampa Bay History

Vinoy Hotel still holds unique place in St. Pete’s waterfront

Long before the museums, high-rise condos, and exciting nightlife, downtown St. Petersburg was defined by a unique kind of experience. Home to thousands of winter residents and tourists, St. Petersburg’s …

Apr 22, 2024

Tampa Bay History

Tampa’s hidden oasis

Before the days of backyard pools and giant water parks, Tampa’s residents (which should be clarified as the city’s white residents) flocked to the spring and pool at Sulphur Springs. …

Apr 03, 2024

Tampa Bay History

A story of growth, decline, and renewal on Old Tampa Bay

Oldsmar’s history, and its very name, are both traced to automobile innovator and manufacturer Ransom Eli Olds. By the early 1900s, Olds was one of the leading automobile manufacturers in …

Apr 03, 2024