Recognizing the need to document and preserve the development and unique heritage of Tampa and its government, the City of Tampa Archives was founded in 1987. Archives Awareness Week was established in 1992 by the City of Tampa Archives Advisory Committee. During this week, local archives come together to present their collections through exhibits and programs that convey the value of archives in the identification, preservation and conservation of historic records.  This year, the Museum is pleased to offer Plant’s Follies: The Casino and Tampa’s Civic Identity. 

The most famous performers in America appeared on the stage of the Tampa Bay Hotel’s Casino at the turn of the 20th century. Join Dr. Charles McGraw Groh in the Music Room for a behind-the scenes look at how theater programs were used to reconstruct Tampa’s place in the history of popular entertainment. Enjoy video performances of period songs by soprano Katie Terres and tenor Dylan Glover. Then join us in the Museum for a look at the special exhibit Standing Room Only: Popular Entertainment in Gilded Age Tampa. While you are there, be sure to visit Stop the Presses! Fake News and the War of 1898, on view in our main exhibit gallery.

This event is free and open to the public.  Water and light refreshments provided. Contact info: 813.254.1891, ext. 7303 or scarter@ut.edu

For more information on all Archives Awareness Week programs, click here.