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The Hillsborough County Historical Advisory Council and the City of Tampa's Arts & Cultural Affairs Department are celebrating the placement of 10 new historical markers across Tampa. The new markers will be added to Tampa's Soulwalk, a 46-mile, self-guided arts and heritage trail celebrating Black history across 25 neighborhoods.
"These markers permanently recognize historical events and people, so that they will be remembered far into the future," Mayor Jane Castor said. "We are a proudly diverse city, and this is another step toward our goal of filling in Tampa's cultural record."
Among the 10 Markers
- Claxton Manor Motel was established in 1965 by Leon Claxton, owner of the incredibly popular traveling show known as Harlem in Havana. It provided much-needed lodging for Black travelers in the segregated South. It was located on West Cypress Street, adjacent to the interstate, and torn down in the 1980s.
- Belmont Heights -- 3901 N. 21st St., Tampa. Belmont Heights is one of the most important historic Black neighborhoods in Tampa. Key community features include Belmont Heights Little League, Middleton High School and Memorial Park Cemetery.
- International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), Local #1402 -- 707 E. Harrison St. The importance of Tampa's port to its economy cannot be overstated, and the longshoremen have been critical to its success. Since December 1935, dock workers have been protected by ILA 1402.
- Ann Lowe -- 1100 E. Kay St. (original home was at 1112 E. Kay St.). Lowe was an accomplished fashion designer and trailblazer. She created the gown for the wedding between John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier.
View more information on Hillsborough County's historical markers