Brass Bowl

Located on the grounds of the University of Tampa, this old school house sits like a grandmother among her descendants.   It’s fitting that the grounds of the University have gone from schoolhouse, to hotel and then back to an institution of learning.

(text of marker follows image)

OLD SCHOOLHOUSE

Built circa 1855 by Gen. Jesse Carter for his daughter Josephine.  He employed Mrs. Louisa Porter as teacher.  The first class included Josephine Carter, Janie Givens, Mary Lesley, Mary Kelly, Eugenia Spencer, Lizze Spencer and Hayden Porter.  Jesse J. Hayden purchased the property in 1865.  His granddaughter Marion A. McKay was born in the school Oct. 8, 1875.  In 1886 Henry B. Plant bought the property for his hotel.  He saved the School and it was used as an apothecary shop by Dr. J.M. Grantham.  In 1905 the Hotel was sold to the City of Tampa.  The School was presented to the Desoto Chapter DAR in 1931 by Mayor D.B. McKay and City Representatives.

(click on schoolhouse picture to see a 1200×900 image)