Sulphur Springs (Tampa)

Description

The area is well-known for the Sulphur Springs Water Tower, built in 1927. The community was annexed into Tampa in 1953. The neighborhood was once known for being a mineral springs-tourist attraction, primarily a draw for the middle- and working-classes.

Another widely-known landmark was the Sulphur Springs Hotel and Arcade (originally owned by Josiah T. Richardson), considered to be the first indoor shopping center in the state of Florida. It was situated near the Hillsborough River, at the intersection of Nebraska Avenue and Bird Street (on the southwest corner). Constructed from 1926 to 1927, the hotel-shopping center took up an entire city block. It represented an excellent example of the resort-style recreation facilities which became popular around the early 20th century. The most distinguishing feature of the hotel was its first and second floor front arcade in the classical style.

In 1951, a drive-in theater opened next to the Sulphur Springs Water Tower. The Tower Theatre, as it was called, was a popular drive-in that operated for nearly 40 years. The theater, with its visible neon signage, became yet another well-known Tampa landmark featuring a location facing the Hillsborough River (between Florida and Nebraska Avenue). The "neon tower" was designed after its nearby namesake.

Geography

Sulphur Springs is located at (28.02500, −82.45111), or about five miles north of downtown Tampa. The community has an elevation of 16 feet above sea level. Sulphur Springs boundaries include Rowlett Park to the east, Florida Avenue to the west, Busch Blvd. to the north, and the Hillsborough River to the south

Demographics

As of the census of 2010, there were 5,727 people living in the neighborhood. The racial makeup of the neighborhood was 31.1% White, 62.2% Black, 0.4% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 2.4% other races, and 3.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 18.6% of the population.

References

References

1. "Our Pathway to a Better Tomorrow".
2. [http://tbo.com/central-tampa/sulphur-springs-residents-reclaim-their-park-52904 Rejuvinated(sic) Mann-Wagnon park is among recent community improvements] by Kathy Steele January 22, 2010 Tampa Tribune (TBO.com)
3. [https://web.archive.org/web/20100131101001/http://www.tampabay.com/news/humaninterest/sulphur-springs-history-museum-to-open-in-park/1066885 Sulphur Springs history museum to open in park] by Marty Clear January 21, 2010 Tampa Bay Times
4. [http://www.tampagov.net/dept_city_clerk/previous_mayors/curtis_hixon.asp Unknown]{{Dead link. (February 2022)
5. [http://www.tampagov.net/dept_city_clerk/previous_mayors/junie_lee_young.asp Unknown]{{Dead link. (February 2022)
6. John V. Cinchett. (2009). "Vintage Tampa Signs and Scenes". [[Arcadia Publishing]].
7. (2011-02-12). "US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990". [[United States Census Bureau]].
8. "US Cities & State Gazetteers: 179,000 community profiles & 1.8 million physical, cultural and historic features".
9. "Community Atlas".