The Tampa Bay History Center is a cultural treasure along the Tampa Riverwalk. In addition to being a feast for the eyes on the outside, the museum hosts some of the most eclectic and significant exhibitions in the region. 2022 was a stellar year for the history center and 2023 is looking stacked for history buffs and longtime Tampa residents.
Black History Month Reception (Feb 24)
One key event set to take place at Tampa Bay History Center is the Black History Month Reception on February 24, 2023. Former NFL linebacker Derrick Brooks will share his story that led to a 14-year Hall of Fame career.
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During the reception, the 2023 Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr. Award for the Preservation of Black History and Heritage will be presented to this year’s distinguished honoree. The reception also supports outstanding Thurgood Marshall History Clubs that allow students to learn, discuss, and participate in activities related to Black history. Advance tickets are required, and space is limited for this event – get tickets here!
Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame (Mar 1-31)
The Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame exhibit will feature women from the past 13 years of the Hall of Fame’s honorees and recognize 2023 recipients. The Women’s Hall of Fame was created in 2011 by the Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women to honor women who, through their lives and efforts, have made significant contributions to improving life for women and all citizens of Hillsborough County.
Etched Feathers: A History of the Printed Bird (Mar 4-Oct 15)
Birds have mesmerized and inspired artists for centuries. Etched Feathers examines the works, and artistic processes, of John Costin and other bird artists and devotees, whose creations capture the essence of winged beauty.
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Key West and The Florida Keys: Mapping the History of the Conch Republic (Apr 15-Oct 15)
Locals and visitors alike will get to know the Conch Republic all the more intimately this April at the Tampa Bay History. Key West and the Florida Keys have always played an outsized role in Florida’s history. First appearing on a Spanish map in 1511, the Keys had been home to the Tequesta and Calusa for thousands of years. In more modern times, Key West was at one point the largest city in Florida, home to wreckers, cigar makers, fisherfolk, and other colorful characters. Historical and modern maps and charts chronicle that past at the Key West and the Florida Keys exhibit, on view from April 15 to Oct. 15.
Florida Emancipation Day (May 20)
Leaders from the Tampa Bay History Center will help celebrate and commemorate Florida Emancipation Day at Chinsegut Hill Historic Site on May 20 at the Chinsegut Hill Historic Site, 22495 Chinsegut Hill Road, Brooksville. Florida Emancipation Day: A Family Reunion is a free family event, thanks to the support of Hernando County, Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau, and Pasco-Hernando State College. This celebration features living history and historical reenactments, an active archaeological dig tour, outdoor games for all ages, Brooksville’s favorite food vendors, and live music all afternoon.
View all of their events including Sangria and Stories: Tampa’s Early Football History, a Central Avenue Walking Tour, and more!
Keep up with the latest exhibits and events at Tampa Bay History Center by following the cultural center on Facebook and Instagram, and by visiting the museum’s website.
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