PETER DEMENS: THE RUSSIAN FOUNDER OF ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA

 

How well do we know the history of our own city?  How many people know the story of Peter Demens and the founding of a city on the west coast of Florida in 1888, and the naming of that city St. Petersburg, Florida?  Who was Peter Demens, and why do we honor him with a waterfront park in downtown St. Petersburg?  These are questions that will be addressed in a lecture by Professor Bill Parsons on Tuesday, February 23 in the Ballroom of the Sunshine Center at 7:30 pm.

           
Professor Parsons taught courses in history and Russian Studies at Eckerd College for 40 years before retiring in 2006.  He has researched the life and times of Peter Demens and served as curator for two museum exhibits on Demens.  He will present the latest scholarly information about a man who played a critical role in bringing the railroad to St. Petersburg in 1888.  He will also report on a new biography of Demens published in Russia last year. 

This is a timely topic, since the City Council is now discussing a proposal to designate the Detroit Hotel a historic landmark.  The Detroit Hotel was built in 1988  by Peter Demens. Professor Parsons is also presently serving as the president of SPIFFS and the president of Russian Heritage, a member of SPIFFS.
           
In addition to the lecture on Demens, there will be a surprise entertainment presentation and Russian refreshments will be available. 

Tickets: $5.00.  for adults;  $2 for students and youth.