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The Knight Collection

Charles L. Knight was a surveyor and property appraiser by trade and anthropologist by training, and a member of the Seminole Tribe by Tribal decree. He began purchasing items from Seminole and Miccosukee artisans around 1940. He did so partially to support his friends and neighbors but also because of his genuine interest in American Indian Culture. Knight cataloged and cared for this vast collection of carvings, dolls, clothing, patchwork samples, and archaeological artifacts that are now part of the Tampa Bay History Center Collection.

EXHIBIT TYPE: Permanent

Seminole Dolls

1930-1960
Seminole dolls were originally made from rags and sticks and are now made from wood (cypress) and palmetto busks. Dolls were created for both the tourist trade and for personal use.

2007.054.150-.155 | Charles L. Knight Collection, Tampa Bay History Center

In partnership with the Tampa Bay History Center, the Digital Heritage and Humanities Collections at the University of South Florida Libraries uses the latest digital and mapping technologies to create a virtual presentation of objects, architecture, and museum exhibitions.

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