Ybor City State Museum, situated in the heart of Tampa, Florida, serves as a cultural beacon that preserves the rich heritage of Ybor City’s vibrant past. This museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of the immigrants who settled in this area and contributed to Tampa’s development as a cigar manufacturing center.

Introduction

Ybor City State Museum, also known as Ybor City Museum State Park, celebrates the historical significance of Ybor City, an area on the National Register of Historic Places. It provides an immersive experience into the history of the cigar industry and the diverse cultural contributions of its immigrant population. The museum is housed in the former Ferlita Bakery, which is itself a part of the historical narrative of Ybor City.

History

Ybor City was founded in the late 19th century by Vicente Martinez-Ybor as a cigar manufacturing center. It became a melting pot of immigrants, mainly from Spain, Italy, and Cuba, who came to work in the cigar factories. The museum, which opened its doors to the public in 1980, captures this rich history through its exhibits and restored historical structures, including the bakery and a typical cigar worker’s home known as a “casita.”

Facts

• The museum’s centerpiece is the restored Ferlita Bakery building, which dates back to the 1920s and was once a popular gathering spot for the community.
• It showcases the world’s largest cigar industry at its peak, with Tampa being referred to as the “Cigar Capital of the World.”
• Ybor City was unique for its multi-ethnic community and for being a planned industrial town with services and housing for workers.
• The museum’s garden includes a statue of Vicente Martinez-Ybor, the founder of Ybor City.

Location

The Ybor City State Museum is located at 1818 E 9th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605. Nestled in the historic district of Ybor City, it is easily accessible from downtown Tampa and is a staple in the community’s cultural landscape.

Opening Hours

The museum traditionally operates six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday, and is closed on Mondays and major holidays. Opening hours are usually from 9 AM to 5 PM, but it is recommended to check the museum’s website or contact the museum directly to confirm current operating hours before planning a visit.

Things to do

Visitors to the Ybor City State Museum can engage in a variety of activities:

• Explore the permanent and rotating exhibits detailing the history of the cigar industry and the immigrant experience.
• Take a guided tour of the “casitas,” which are furnished to reflect the early 1900s lifestyle.
• Stroll through the Mediterranean-style garden that offers a peaceful retreat.
• Participate in educational programs and community events that are often held at the museum.

Tips For Visiting

• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking around the museum and perhaps the historic district.
• Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits and the garden.
• Check for guided tour availability to enhance your experience.
• Consider visiting nearby attractions in Ybor City, such as the historic 7th Avenue, for dining and shopping.
• Parking can be limited, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly or use public transportation.

Conclusion

Ybor City State Museum is more than a repository of historical artifacts; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of the immigrant communities that shaped Tampa. Through its thoughtful exhibits and preservation of historical structures, the museum offers a compelling journey through time. It stands as a tribute to the multicultural tapestry that is Ybor City, inviting visitors from around the world to step back into a bygone era and experience the legacy of the cigar capital of the world.