HISTORY OF THE PROPELLER CLUB
One of the first Propeller Clubs founded, the Port of Tampa chapter was chartered May 25, 1929, as Port No. 5 by transportation industry leader Alex Findlay. At the time, the Port of Tampa was handling an average of 3.2 million tons of domestic and foreign commerce annually. Phosphate and petroleum were among the most important cargoes which also included lumber, iron and steel, scrap metal and fruits. Speakers at Propeller Club meeting since 1938 encouraged the Chamber of Commerce, which handled trade development, to concentrate on trade with Central and South America to diversify the Port’s cargo mix.
OUR 77TH ANNIVERSARY - 2006
The year 2006 marks the 77th year of the Propeller Clubs formation. Since the Tampa club’s inception it has made strides in the improvement and support of Port projections and maritime functions. In 2000 The Propeller Club of Tampa hosted one of the most successful International Conventions in history at the Waterside Marriott Hotel.
PORT OF TAMPA RELATIVE SIZE
The Port of Tampa handles as much tonnage as all the other 13 deepwater Florida ports combined and ranks 12th of all ports in the US.
MEMBERSHIP MIX & OBJECTIVES
Our membership is diversified and open to all. Currently, membership companies range from shipyards, trucking companies, steamship agencies, and port companies, to legal firms, banks, research, etc.
Objectives of the club include:
To promote waterborne commerce and the Marine industry generally in all its segments
To maintain a continuing program of public relations, education and goodwill with the shipping community and public in general
To collaborate with other organizations whose members are dedicated to the promotion of the best interest of American maritime shipping and allied industries
To promote a spirit of friendship and common purpose among persons engaged in the American Merchant Marine. |
