It takes a lot of effort and often little financial support to preserve history. Show some well-deserved appreciation to the librarians, historians and preservationists who maintain photos and other items that give us a window into our past during Archives Awareness Week.
The event series was established in 1992 by the City of Tampa Archives Advisory Committee, and this week will be commemorated by local archivists and history enthusiasts who will present their collections through intriguing exhibits and programs all week long.
Archives Awareness Week is held during the second week of July to coincide with the City of Tampa’s birthday on Tuesday, July 15. This year, the city will also celebrate the centennial of Old City Hall. Still not confirmed — if Willard Scott will give it a shout out.
Here are the events scheduled:
Open Exhibits held all week long at the Tampa Bay History Center, Tampa Museum of Art, John F. Germany Public Library, Henry B. Plant Museum, Ybor City Museum State Park, and Old City Hall.
The Hillsborough County-City County Planning Commission will host an informative lecture, More than Cigars: the History of Planning and Growth in Tampa, presented by Project Manager Terry Eagan. Takes place Monday, July 13, at 2 p.m.
Architectural Historian Jose Gelats presents the Henry B. Plant Museum afternoon tea and architectural tour. Mini tours of the museum focus on the new exhibit, Passionate Design: The American Arts and Crafts Movement, will also be given by Curators Heather Brown and Susan Carter. Tuesday, July 14, at 3:30 p.m.
The City of Tampa will celebrate its 128th birthday and City Hall’s Centennial with the release of a new book, The City Council of Tampa and Celebration of Old City Hall’s Centennial. Join Mayor Buckhorn and current and former council members for this special event. On Wednesday, July 15, at 4 p.m.
Librarians at the University of South Florida’s Special Collections will highlight some of their unique items including a new collection of materials related to Lewis Carroll and Alice in Wonderland. Thursday, July 16, at 1 p.m.
The Tampa Bay History Center and the Friends of the Riverwalk will present the unveiling of three monuments slated for Tampa’s Historical Monument Trail celebrating transformational events that shaped modern Tampa. Friday, July 17, at 10 a.m.
The Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library will offer a 50-minute program on the preservation of books and photographs. Friday, July 17, at 10:30 a.m.
Archives Awareness Week closes out with Maureen Patrick of Historic Guides, who will offer a Founders’ Rest Tour featuring Tampa’s elected officials at historic Oaklawn Cemetery. Saturday, July 18, at 9:30 a.m.
For more info, visit tampagov.net/aaw.
