By Peter Roos
I have been in love with a female Leo for over half a century. She is both my motivation and my inspiration, and the source of my belief that behind most men that accomplish things, are amazing women full of encouragement. Nationally we recognize the women who brought sobriety to the nation, who fought to vote, and those who went to work during the world wars.
At the St. Petersburg Museum of History, 335 2nd Ave. NE, the big permanent exhibits are a replica of Benoist Airboat that made the world’s first commercial flight, and an amazing collection of baseballs, as spring training is as much part of St. Petersburg’s history as the Pier on which the museum sits.
A special exhibit, however, on display through year-end, celebrates the women in St. Petersburg’s history.
From the Pinellas Peninsula’s first settlers to the trailblazers of today, women have always had a hand in the development of St. Petersburg. Referred to as “meddling” by historians for stepping out of gender norms and into male-dominated spaces, these women were politicians, civic leaders, educators, real estate developers, business owners and more. Through photographs, info panels, artifacts and video, this exhibit shares the stories of the women who created the Sunshine City. This exhibit was made possible through funding by the Adelphi Trust Company, the first trust company in Florida founded, owned and led by women. www.spmoh.com
Creative Clay’s March ArtWalk exhibit, Inspire Inclusion, also Celebrates Women’s History Month. Tour their studios and visit their Creative Thrift store for artists’ supplies and treasures! Enjoy portrait drawing by the artists of Creative Clay and live music performance by Deb Ruby. The Inspire Inclusion exhibit runs through the end of April. Creative Clay’s mission is to help people with disabilities achieve full and inclusive lives by providing expressive, educational and vocational experiences in the arts. The National Women’s History Month’s theme for 2024 celebrates “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” The theme recognizes women throughout the country who understand that, for a positive future, we need to eliminate bias and discrimination entirely from our lives and institutions. The IWD 2024 campaign theme is Inspire Inclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. This exhibit may be viewed in person at Creative Clay. Its hours are 9am-4pm, Mon.-Fri., and each second Saturday ArtWalk 5-9pm. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram @creativeclaystpete, LinkedIn and Twitter@creativeclay. Creative Clay’s virtual gallery, on its Good Folk Gallery page, includes the artwork of many of Creative Clay’s member artists. The member artists of Creative Clay are empowered to become active, working artists who create, exhibit, and sell their artwork in the Good Folk Gallery and at venues throughout Tampa Bay. Member Artists’ work is also available for purchase in the virtual gallery on their website. Artists receive 50% commission on all works sold. www.creativeclay.org
There is a Gulf Beaches Historical Museum located in the oldest church on the island, thanks to Joan Haley, a widowed journalist who moved to the beach in 1952 from Washington, D.C. Her passion for historic preservation, love of antiques, and curiosity about the area prompted her to sell her bayfront property in 1959, purchase the old church and make it her very special home. Upon her death in 1989, Mrs. Haley left the church property to Pinellas County to be used as an island museum. The museum has been run by volunteers, mostly women, since it opened in 1993. It is a treasure of all things north of Pass-a-Grille, The Sunshine School, The War Years, and houses a host of video recordings of pioneers talking about growing up in the area. The Museum is open for visitation Fridays and Saturdays from 10am-4pm and Sundays from 1-4pm. 727-552-1610 www.gulfbeachesmuseum.org
The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum’s Island Festival is back on March 23, 11:30am-4pm. Car show on 9th Ave. in Pass-a-Grille. Cabana Dogs will be playing 12-4pm. Hot dogs and hamburgers, beer, wine, and Grillin & Chillin barbecue with sides. 50/50 & silent auction.
Paradise News has shared a number of stories in the past about some of the famous women in the beaches’ past. We published a major story for example, as a memorial for Joan Hurley Young. Best known as the local star of Romper Room in her early years 1965-1980, June Hurley Young became a journalist, author and preservationist in her own right. She is credited with saving our treasured Don Cesar Resort and a role in rescue of the Vinoy from the wrecking ball.
As St. Petersburg celebrates Women’s History Month, it also reflects on the ongoing journey toward gender equality and inclusivity. While much progress has been made, challenges persist, highlighting the importance of continuing to honor the legacies of past trailblazers and amplifying the voices of women in all spheres of society.
Pioneering Entrepreneurs
Among the notable female figures in St. Petersburg’s history are women who defied societal norms to establish thriving businesses. One such luminary is Caroline H. “Mother” Anthony, who in the late 19th century, opened a boarding house that became a cornerstone of the local hospitality industry. Her entrepreneurial spirit laid the groundwork for future generations of businesswomen in the area.
Civic Leaders and Activists
The archives of St. Petersburg’s history are replete with the stories of women who advocated for social change and spearheaded movements for equality. In the mid-20th century, educator and civil rights activist, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, left an indelible mark on the city through her tireless efforts to advance education and champion civil rights causes. Her legacy continues to inspire activism and progress in St. Petersburg and beyond.
Cultural Influencers
Women have long been at the forefront of St. Petersburg’s vibrant cultural scene, shaping its artistic landscape and enriching its cultural heritage. Poet and author, Helen Pruitt Wallace, captured the essence of the city through her evocative verses, while artist Martha Bennett King showcased the beauty of St. Petersburg’s landscapes through her captivating paintings. Their artistic contributions endure as testaments to the city’s creative spirit.
Educators and Mentors
Throughout St. Petersburg’s history, women have served as pillars of education, nurturing young minds and fostering intellectual growth. Dr. Daphne M. Johnston, a distinguished educator and advocate for educational equity, dedicated her career to empowering students and promoting inclusive learning environments. Her impact on the educational landscape of St. Petersburg continues to resonate, shaping the aspirations of future generations.
Trailblazing in Civic Leadership
In the realm of civic leadership, Mary Grizzle stands out as a trailblazer whose impact reverberated far beyond St. Petersburg. Elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1963, she became the first woman to chair a standing committee in the state’s legislature. Throughout her tenure, Grizzle championed legislation focused on education, conservation, and social welfare, leaving an indelible mark on Florida’s political landscape.
The rich tapestry of St. Petersburg’s history is woven with the threads of women’s courage, resilience, and ingenuity. From the boardroom to the classroom, from the streets to the galleries, their contributions have left an indelible imprint on the city’s collective identity. As the community commemorates Women’s History Month, it pays tribute to these unsung heroines and reaffirms its commitment to building a future where every woman’s story is celebrated and honored.