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Just as this order in Spain has contributed to the growth and prosperity of the Krewe of Sant' Yago in Tampa, it has dedicated itself to the perpetuation and enhancement of the proud Latin heritage and culture of our citizens. The Krewe dedicates itself to the continued improvement of life and cultural progress.
The birth of the Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago was in 1970 in Tampa. After many years of conversations as to the need for an organization of this sort to preserve the Latin culture of Tampa, five men met at the old Las Novedades Restaurant. Dr. Henry J. Fernandez, who called the five men together, was joined by Cesar Gonzmart, Joseph R. Lopez, Daniel F. Martinez and Joe C. Granda. After many meetings discussing whether enough interest could be generated to form a first class organization, these five men were joined by other men and it was ultimately established that the organization had a good chance of success.
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Weekly meetings continued until 1972 when all of the 15 members were officially designated as the Board of Directors. Bylaws were drawn up, officers were elected, and each member of the Board was responsible for bringing in four members to form a charter membership of 75 men.
In September of 1972, the first gathering of the Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago was held at the Columbia Restaurant. Ther first Coronation of the Krewe was held in January of 1973, when the first King, Phil LoCicero, and the first Queen, Mary Frances Mandese (Ledo) were crowned.
The Charter membership has increased to a limit of 300, in order to preserve the closeness, fellowship and exclusiveness that the Board felt was necessary to make the Krewe a successful organization.
The "Brotherhood of Men" is the greatest success to which we can aspire. We hope that you attend one of our upcoming events.
Viva Sant' Yago |
