Unearthing the Roots: How James Taylor Evers Shaped Plant City's Legacy

Plant City, Florida, USA - In a recent session of History Talks, the backstory of Plant City’s founding family, the Evers, took center stage. James Taylor Evers, a pivotal figure in the community’s development, is celebrated for his choices that shaped the town we know today. Hosted by The Plant City History & Photo Archives, in collaboration with other local organizations, the event sought to highlight the contributions of early settlers who built not only Plant City but also the broader region encompassing Tampa and Brandon. Libby Hopkins, the Director of The Plant City History & Photo Archives, emphasized the importance of paying homage to these foundational families that paved the way for future generations. Local historian Gil Gott shed light on Evers‘ significant role and his commitment to the community’s growth. Osprey Observer reports that Evers made a notable decision to remain on his successful farm in Wellborn, Suwannee County, rather than relocating to Alafia with his father and uncle in the late 1860s.

Evers‘ personal life is just as compelling. He took Martha Frances Rucker Spier as his wife in 1866, a widow with five children, and together they start a new chapter. When it became clear that the railroad’s route had moved south, Evers made a strategic move to relocate his businesses and family closer to the new rail line. His entrepreneurial spirit bore fruit; he was among the first to establish businesses in what would soon become a bustling community.

Origins of Plant City

What’s in a name? For Evers, the title could have been Eversville, in his honor. However, he opted for the name Plant City, acknowledging the railroad’s critical influence on the area’s formation. By December 1883, with the post office now officially named Plant City, it was clear Evers’ decision had lasting ramifications. As the town blossomed, so did its reputation for farming, particularly strawberries—a legacy still strong today.

But the story of Plant City isn’t just about names and businesses. The foundation of the town is intertwined with its rich history preserved by local institutions. The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center is situated conveniently on Evers Street, right in the heart of downtown. This nonprofit organization works diligently to archive and exhibit a vast collection of photographs that preserve the community’s vibrant history.

Significant contributions from local photographers, including Bill Friend and Gladys JeffCoat, helped enrich the archive. For over two decades, an increasing number of photos have found their way into the center, each telling a piece of Plant City’s evolving narrative. The center’s mission is clear: to share local stories that highlight not just the history of Plant City but also its diverse communities. Currently, efforts are underway to scan thousands of photos, making them available online so that everyone can appreciate the visual history of this charming town.

Looking forward, the next History Talks program is scheduled for July. While details about the location and topic are still in the works, one thing is certain: the legacy of the Evers family and the history they helped create will continue to inspire and engage our community for generations to come. It appears there’s plenty more to learn about how Plant City grew from humble beginnings into the lively place it is today.