FL-F39 Founding of the Cigar Industry in Tampa

Marker text: FOUNDING OF THE CIGAR INDUSTRY IN TAMPA

In 1886 two cigar factories were completed at Tampa signaling the founding of the industry in the area. Pioneer manufacturer was Vincente Martinez Ybor, a native of Spain, who had made cigars at Havana and Key West. Ybor's move to Tampa was prompted by better transportation and favorable terms offered by Tampa's Board of Trade. Due to the efforts of Ybor and his associates. Tampa became a world tobacco manufacturing center.

Florida Board of Parks and Historic Memorials In Cooperation with Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, 1961