Sponge Diving: A Tarpon Springs Cornerstone

The Tarpon Springs that we have all come to know and love is renowned for the natural sponges that can be found in the area. 

But where did it all begin?

According to the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society, the first settlers arrived here in the 1870s. After the small town gained momentum, it became the first incorporated city on the Pinellas peninsula in 1887.

In 1890, Tarpon Springs' sponge beds were discovered by spongers who had traveled north from Key West. The historical society writes that the discovery was an accident. A Key West turtle fisherman got his nets tangled up in a bed of sponges near the Anclote River.

Nevertheless, once it was found, Tarpon Springs became a common place for talk about sponges. 

By 1900, Tarpon Springs had already become the biggest sponge port in the U.S. 

Greek Influence

The sponge diving industry was the original boost for the city, but without the work of Greek immigrants, Tarpon Springs would not be what it is today. 

In 1896, John Corcoris arrived to Tarpon from New York as a sponge buyer. Corcoris introduced the first mechanized sponge fishing boat to Tarpon Springs. Along with the boat, Corcoris was responsible for bringing in 500 Greek divers from the islands of Kalymnos, Halki, Symi, Hydra, Spetse and Aegena.

Once word got out about this new place in America, other Greek immigrants followed Corcoris' lead. Businesses were established, and Tarpon blossomed.

When you look at a map of the world, Tarpon Springs is just a speck. But when folks visit the city itself, the speck becomes more of a universal culture and community where everyone is welcome. 

Today, while sponging is still a highlight of Tarpon Springs, tourism is largely responsible for the town's continued success.

Read more about the city's history on the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society website.

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