The east side entrance to Plant Hall

Henry B. Plant built this ornate Moorish structure at a cost of 3 million dollars.  Opened in 1891, it became the social and cultural center of early Tampa.  During the Spanish American War it became the headquarters for the military top brass (But NOT for Teddy Roosevelt.  He camped with his men in the field in West Tampa, in the summer heat and humidity, bugs and mosquitos.)  Contrary to what the H.B. Plant museum claims, Clara Barton NEVER spent the night here.  Purchased by the City of Tampa in 1905, it has served as the main building of the University of Tampa since 1933.
 

Click on plaque which reads the same as above.

The new sign at the new entrance, April 2011
Photo courtesy of Paul Rodriguez

This beautiful structure is also the home of the Henry B. Plant museum       

Museum web site

The minarets are synonymous with Tampa and have come to be the city's unofficial symbol.  Many years ago the minarets had deteriorated to the point of ruin but were restored due to a great campaign to save them.

Click to read about Teddy Roosevelt's stay

Go inside one of the minarets and see the view from the top in the video below.

Page 1    Page 2    Page 3    Page 4    Page 5    Page 6

Tampapix Home