Spanishtown Creek facts for kids

Spanishtown Creek, also sometimes called Spanish Town Creek, was a small stream that flowed into Tampa Bay. It was located about half a mile west of the Hillsborough River. Today, this area is known as Hyde Park in Tampa.

An important part of this area's history is the village of Spanishtown. This village was located near where the creek met the bay. It was home to Spanish-speaking fishermen during a time when Spain controlled Florida. This was before Fort Brooke was built nearby.

What Was Spanishtown Creek?

Spanishtown Creek was a natural waterway, like a small river. It played a role in the early history of the Tampa area. The creek flowed into the Hillsborough Bay part of Tampa Bay. This made it a useful spot for people living nearby.

The Village of Spanishtown

The village of Spanishtown is thought to have started in the mid to late 1700s. It was a community of fishermen who spoke Spanish. They lived and worked along the creek, using the water for their fishing.

Who Lived in Spanishtown?

The first known American settler in this area was Levi Collar. He arrived around 1820 on the west bank of the Hillsborough River. The Spanish fishermen had been there for many years before him.

Florida Changes Hands

A big change happened in 1821. Florida was officially transferred from Spain to the United States. This meant the land, including Spanishtown Creek and the village, became part of the U.S.

A historical marker is now on Bay Street. It helps people remember the interesting history of Spanishtown.

A Bridge Over the Creek

Over time, the area around Spanishtown Creek developed. In 1906, the famous Burgert Brothers photographers took pictures of a bridge being built over the creek. This shows how the area was growing and changing.