TAMPA, FL (January 05, 2010) – Since early in the 19th century, Tampa Bay has been a center for trade, yet it is the only port in Florida that has not been surveyed to interpret maritime history for educational purposes. The Florida Aquarium is conducting the first comprehensive underwater archaeological survey of Tampa Bay and its tributaries, which include downtown Tampa, in order to locate, investigate and interpret historic wrecks.

The aquarium is also working with the University of Miami on an underwater archaeological site which is considered one of the most dynamic and important prehistoric archaeological sites in North America. Artifacts and human remains have been preserved there for thousands of years making it a perfect time capsule for prehistoric Florida. Some of the most significant artifacts discovered have been located by Florida Aquarium divers. The goal of this project is to find direct evidence that humans inhabited Florida 14,000 years ago, which, if supported by the evidence we uncover, will completely change the history of human colonization of the Florida peninsula.

“Dive in” to this interesting program and learn about what history is underwater in downtown Tampa, and the amazing things The Florida Aquarium team is finding in other places, as well.

This event is open to anyone who is interested. The event will be held at The Florida Aquarium, located at 701 Channelside Drive in downtown Tampa.  The event will begin with registration starting at 7:30 a.m. followed by breakfast and presentations from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.  Admission for Partnership members is $20.00, Partnership potential members $25.00.  Online registration is available.

This event is sponsored by Tampa Electric Company and hosted by The Florida Aquarium.

MEDIA: Members of the media that would like to attend these events for news purposes, please contact the Partnership by dialing (813) 221-3686.

The Tampa Downtown Partnership is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(6) organization that administers the Special Services District (SSD) Program.  In addition to Tampa's Downtown Guides and Clean Team, the Tampa Downtown Partnership works to promote downtown through marketing, business development, transportation and beautification efforts. The Partnership has a long history of supporting downtown’s revitalization, a broad constituency, and strong relationships with many community stakeholders.  For more information about the Tampa Downtown Partnership, telephone (813) 221-3686 or visit the Partnership’s web site at www.tampasdowntown.com.

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