Tampa – Ybor City

Ybor City’s (a faction of Tampa) Italian-American heritage is a vibrant and unique part of the city’s history. This Mediterranean-influenced neighborhood is home to the Italian Club, the second mutual aid society established in Tampa in 1894. Founded by Italian immigrants, The Italian Club building is an impressive architectural gem and symbol of Ybor’s, and in turn Tampa’s Italian heritage. The Italian Club has also played a significant role in the city’s political history and community leadership. Generations of members have been active in electing Mayors, City Councilmen, County Commissioners, School Board Members, County Tax Collector, State Attorneys, Judges, Senator and Public Defender, thus leaving a lasting mark on Tampa. Today, the Italian Club building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and remains a vibrant part of the city’s history. The Club continues to provide a variety of services to its members and the community, such as language classes, picnics, and educational seminars. Other Italian establishments remain in Ybor City, such as the Sicilian Club, Nuova Sicilia Lodge, and the Universal Masonic Lodge #178. Every year the club hosts a Festa Italiana.