Henry B. Plant Museum

Nestled within the vibrant city of Tampa, Florida, the Henry B. Plant Museum is a treasure trove of history, opulence, and architectural splendor. Located in the south wing of Plant Hall on the University of Tampa's campus, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the Gilded Age, a period of rapid economic growth and extravagant lifestyles. The museum is housed in what was once the Tampa Bay Hotel, a grand resort-style hotel built by railroad magnate Henry B. Plant. With its Moorish Revival architecture, lush gardens, and rich history, the Henry B. Plant Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

The Grand Vision of Henry B. Plant

The story of the Henry B. Plant Museum begins with the vision of Henry B. Plant, a railroad tycoon who played a pivotal role in the development of Florida's west coast. Plant's dream was to create a luxurious hotel that would attract wealthy tourists to the area. Construction of the Tampa Bay Hotel began in 1888 and was completed in 1891 at a cost of over $3 million. The hotel was designed by architect J.A. Wood, who also designed several other notable buildings in the region.

The Tampa Bay Hotel was a marvel of its time, featuring 511 rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities such as electric lighting, telephones, and private bathrooms. It was the first building in Florida to have an elevator, which is still operational today. The hotel's lavish interiors were adorned with art and furnishings collected by Plant and his wife during their travels in Europe. The hotel's grounds spanned 150 acres and included a golf course, racetrack, casino, and indoor heated swimming pool, making it a true paradise for its elite guests.

A Hub of History

During its heyday, the Tampa Bay Hotel hosted a plethora of famous guests, including politicians, celebrities, and even royalty. The hotel played a significant role during the Spanish-American War in 1898, serving as a base of operations for the United States military. High-ranking officers, including Colonel Theodore Roosevelt and his Rough Riders, stayed at the hotel, and the grounds were used for military exercises. The hotel's opulent rooms and suites were the backdrop for important strategic discussions and planning sessions.

Despite its grandeur, the Tampa Bay Hotel struggled to remain profitable and eventually closed its doors in 1930 due to the Great Depression. The building remained vacant for several years until it was repurposed as the campus for the newly established University of Tampa in 1933. In 1974, the Tampa Municipal Museum, which had been preserving the hotel's history, was renamed the Henry B. Plant Museum in honor of its visionary founder.

Exploring the Museum

Today, the Henry B. Plant Museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the opulence of the Gilded Age. The museum's exhibits are arranged in the Historic House Museum style, with artifacts displayed in their original context. This approach allows visitors to see how the hotel's guests lived, dined, and entertained themselves during their stays.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Grand Hall, where visitors can marvel at the intricate woodwork, chandeliers, and luxurious furnishings that once welcomed the hotel's elite clientele. The museum also features a collection of rococo bronzes, tapestries, paintings, and vases, including a stunning vase gifted by the Emperor of Japan. Each room in the museum tells a story, from the lavish suites to the dining rooms where guests enjoyed gourmet meals.

Events and Activities

The Henry B. Plant Museum offers a variety of events and activities that bring history to life. One such event is Music in the Museum, a monthly live classical music performance that pays homage to the hotel's tradition of live entertainment. Visitors can also participate in the Fourth Friday celebration, where the museum offers free entertainment on the Veranda, complete with live music and cultural activities.

For those interested in theatrical experiences, the Upstairs/Downstairs performances are a must-see. These single-character shows transport visitors back in time as actors portray historical figures who once stayed at the hotel. The Picnic in the Park event invites families to enjoy Victorian games and live entertainment in the museum's beautiful gardens.

During the holiday season, the Victorian Christmas Stroll offers a magical experience as visitors explore the museum and gardens adorned with festive decorations. Other notable events include the Great Gatsby Party, an annual 1920s-themed celebration, and An Eerie Evening at the Tampa Bay Hotel, where guests can tour the museum by moonlight and hear spooky stories from the past.

Special Exhibitions and Permanent Collections

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Henry B. Plant Museum hosts special exhibitions that delve into various aspects of the Gilded Age and the hotel's history. Past exhibitions have included The Sportin' Life, which showcased sporting paraphernalia from the era, and Imperial Designs, featuring exquisite items from the Habsburg and Romanov dynasties. These rotating exhibits provide fresh and engaging experiences for repeat visitors.

The Legacy of the Tampa Bay Hotel

The Henry B. Plant Museum stands as a testament to the vision and ambition of Henry B. Plant. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and carefully preserved artifacts offer a unique window into a bygone era of luxury and grandeur. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a fascinating day out, the Henry B. Plant Museum is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire.

As you explore the museum and its grounds, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the role the Tampa Bay Hotel played in shaping the history of Tampa and the broader region. From its beginnings as a luxurious resort to its transformation into a center of education and culture, the legacy of the Tampa Bay Hotel lives on through the Henry B. Plant Museum, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the magic of the Gilded Age.