By Kathy L. Collins
Since the founding of Brandon in 1890, the area has grown and developed into more than just a suburb of Tampa. Unfortunately, the rich history of Brandon is not taught in local schools. The history of the area exists only through stories and photographs that have been faithfully preserved.
Brandon’s extensive history will be on display in a photographic exhibition at Center Place of Brandon during the month of October. The exhibit contains approximately 60 photographs which date from the 1890s through the 1960s. The photographs are of the Brandon area including Limona, Seffner and Valrico.
Lisa Rodriguez, a longtime resident of Brandon said, “I grew up in Brandon and can appreciate many of the historical sites in the photographs. Center Place’s collection of the greater Brandon area is the only one that I know exists.”
Dawn Galia, executive director of Center Place said, “When looking into the past, it is always amazing to see the changes that have been made over the years. Center Place is honored to have such an exhibit in their collection.”
Center Place was given the photographs over 20 years ago with the stipulation that they be taken care of and exhibited at least one time per year.
The photographs provide the viewer with a virtual historical tour of Brandon. There are photographs of local architecture, cattle, citrus, lumber mills and a dirt path that is now Durant Rd. One of the highlights is a photograph from 1921 which shows the original Brandon grade school class. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. The historical photo collection will be on display through Thursday, October 30. For more information, visit centerplacebrandon.org.
