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Exhibit Recalls History, Visitors To Gasparilla

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By ESTHER HAMMER

Tribune correspondent

Published: January 25, 2009

TAMPA - Since the first coronation and parade in 1904, Gasparilla has grown from small and simple to extensive and elaborate. Along the way, the event has attracted a diverse group of celebrities and dignitaries.

That history is brought to life in an exhibit at the Henry B. Plant Museum. Called "Gasparilla's Rich and Famous Guests," the exhibit offers photographic evidence of the presence of guests such as John and Mabel Ringling, who sailed their yacht, the Zalophus, to Tampa for the 1924 Gasparilla fest. A replica of the yacht is a highlight of the show.

There are pictures of Roy Rogers, Dale Evans and their children at the 1959 parade and performing afterward. Because of their presence, the costume of choice for the crowd that year was a cowboy or cowgirl outfit.

But there's more. There's history, too, in a variety of baubles and trinkets.

Did you know the crown worn by the first queen, Mary Lee Douglas, was made by her king, Edward R. Gunby?

"The rumor is he stayed up all night to make it," said Susan Carter, curator of the show. "And it's just gilded cardboard, corsage pins and paste jewels."

If the exhibit isn't enough to get you in the mood for pirate shenanigans, the annual lecture, "Tall Tales & Scandalous Stories," likely will. A few local pirates will spill all from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday in the Grand Salon of Plant Hall.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: "Gasparilla's Rich and Famous," an exhibit of photographs, mementos and memorabilia from previous parades

WHEN: Through March 8

WHERE: Henry B. Plant Museum, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., at the University of Tampa

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