Did you know that Tarpon Springs, FL was supposedly named because of area sightings of tarpon fish jumping out of the Gulf of Mexico waters? It was incorporated in 1887 with a population of only 52.

​

It is a land comprised of bayous along the gulf coast, with rolling hills and Lake Tarpon toward the East. In its earlier years, the land was covered by pine trees which added a balsamic scent to the air. Tarpon Springs became known as a desirable place to live for winter vacationers and permanent residents and attracted people for its beauty, hunting, fishing, and industry.

​

Early on, Tarpon Springs was known for having a steamboat landing at the mouth of its bayou, which added importance to its location. The landing was at the beginning of Tarpon Avenue, which extended to Lake Butler, now called Lake Tarpon. Along this road, the main business district was built. Later, the Orange Belt Railway also extended to its location.

​

The Sponge Industry developed here before 1890 and by 1894 was reported to be of such importance that the industry was valued at one million dollars per year. The Anclote and Rock Island Companies had their headquarters here in Tarpon Springs, and were increasing their fleets and numbers of men.

​

In 1897, John Cheyney employed John Cocoris, a Greek businessman, to purchase sponges. Cocoris used a special diving suit that allows its user to spend considerably more time underwater harvesting sponges with that.

​

In 1905, John Cocoris performed the first mechanized sponge dive. In that same year, the first Greek immigrants began arrive. In 1907, The Tarpon Springs Sponge Exchange was formed.

​

Many Greek immigrants began coming to this area from the Dodecanese Islands. Therefore, the name of the main road along the docks was called Dodecanese Boulevard. These wonderful people brought their families and amazing culture. With time, they became the largest harvesters of natural sponges in the world. As such, Tarpon Springs has the largest Greek population in the U.S.

​

In 1939 the sponge fields were killed by a marine disease and the industry took years to recover from this ordeal.

​

After many years of hard work that continues to this day, and the popularity of its unique atmosphere, the Sponge Docks of Tarpon Springs culture, has become a must visit place for tourists and locals alike.

​

On January 6th, the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the day of Epiphany. A day to bless the water and the boats. A wooden cross is thrown into the bayou, into which local boys jump in to search for it. The lucky young man to recover the cross is said to have a blessed year as the finder’s reward.

​

Along the docks, there are many Greek restaurants and stores with authentic Greek food and items along with Greek cuisine and merchandise including sponges.

​

Aside from the amazing Greek community itself, Tarpon Springs is famous for the natural sponges themselves. If you know about sponges, you know that natural sponges for most matters are highly preferred over synthetic ones.

​

The natural wool sponge (as it is known) has the ability to kill 100% of the bacteria it swipes when used with baking soda. It is a very soft sponge also favored for use on babies’ skin. Loofa sponges are great for exfoliating and also make an excellent, authentic souvenir for yourself or any special person in your life.

​

The sponge industry has been reporting record harvests partially due to the fact that they leave a good portion of the stem of the sponge intact when harvesting to allow for rapid growth.

​

Come to beautiful Tarpon Springs and visit our famous Sponge Docks, lovely shops, and delicious eateries. Enjoy a few hours of exploring this unique Greek enclave on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. It is an experience you won't forget!