Panama City, Florida is a coastal city known for its stunning beaches, warm weather, and vibrant culture. However, what many people may not realize is that this city also has a rich history of artisanal crafts. From pottery to woodworking, the art of handcrafted goods has been an integral part of Panama City's culture for centuries.
The Early Days of Artisans in Panama City
The history of artisans in Panama City can be traced back to the early days of the city's settlement. In the 1800s, when the area was still known as St.Andrews Bay, settlers from Europe and the Caribbean brought with them their unique skills and crafts. These early artisans used their talents to create practical items such as furniture, tools, and clothing for the growing community. As the city continued to grow and develop, so did the demand for artisanal goods. By the late 1800s, Panama City had become a bustling port town, with ships coming in and out of the bay regularly. This provided a perfect opportunity for local artisans to sell their goods to travelers and sailors passing through.
The Rise of Tourism and Artisanal Crafts
In the early 1900s, tourism began to boom in Panama City.The city's beautiful beaches and warm climate attracted visitors from all over the country. With this increase in tourism came a demand for unique souvenirs and handcrafted items. Local artisans saw this as an opportunity to showcase their skills and began creating items specifically for tourists. One of the most popular artisanal crafts during this time was pottery. The clay found in the area was perfect for creating beautiful pieces of pottery, and local potters quickly gained recognition for their work.
Tourists would often purchase these pieces as a way to remember their trip to Panama City.
Woodworking
was also a popular craft during this time. Local carpenters and woodworkers created everything from furniture to decorative items, using the abundant supply of timber in the area. These handcrafted items were not only functional but also served as a way to preserve the city's history and culture.The Impact of the Great Depression
Like many other cities in the United States, Panama City was greatly affected by the Great Depression in the 1930s. The economic downturn had a significant impact on the city's artisanal crafts industry.Many artisans were forced to close their shops and find other means of income. However, some artisans persevered through this difficult time and continued to create their handcrafted goods. One such artisan was George Mortimer, who opened his woodworking shop in 1933. Mortimer's shop became a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and his work is still highly sought after today.
The Revival of Artisanal Crafts in Modern Times
After the Great Depression, Panama City's artisanal crafts industry slowly began to revive. In the 1950s and 1960s, there was a renewed interest in handcrafted goods, with many people seeking out unique and one-of-a-kind items. This led to a resurgence of local artisans creating pottery, woodworking, and other crafts. In the 1970s, the city's government recognized the importance of preserving and promoting its artisanal crafts industry.They established the Panama City Center for the Arts, which provided a space for local artisans to showcase and sell their work. This center continues to be a hub for artisans in the city today.
The Modern Artisans of Panama City
Today, Panama City is home to a diverse community of artisans, each with their own unique style and craft. From traditional pottery and woodworking to more modern forms of art such as jewelry making and glassblowing, there is no shortage of talent in this coastal city. One of the most well-known artisans in Panama City is potter Billie McCray. McCray has been creating beautiful pieces of pottery for over 40 years and has gained national recognition for her work.Her pieces can be found in galleries and shops throughout the city. Another notable artisan is woodworker David Rasmussen. Rasmussen's handcrafted furniture has been featured in magazines and design shows, and his shop in Panama City is a popular destination for those looking for unique and high-quality pieces.
The Future of Artisans in Panama City
As Panama City continues to grow and evolve, so does its artisanal crafts industry. The city's government continues to support and promote local artisans, recognizing the importance of preserving this part of the city's culture and history. With the rise of online marketplaces and social media, local artisans now have a wider reach to showcase and sell their work. This has allowed them to connect with customers from all over the world, further expanding the reach of Panama City's artisanal crafts.In Conclusion
The history of artisans in Panama City is a testament to the city's rich culture and heritage.From its early days as a small settlement to its current status as a popular tourist destination, artisanal crafts have played an integral role in shaping the city's identity. Today, local artisans continue to create beautiful handcrafted goods that not only serve as souvenirs but also tell the story of Panama City's past and present.
