The Montague Tallant Collection at the South Florida Museum in Tampa

The Montague Tallant Collection at the South Florida Museum tells a story of native Floridians and gives an understanding of their culture. His passion for collection began at an early age and as a youth had collected more than 2,500 items. His collection is from more than 169 sites in Florida and is considered one of the world's most comprehensive private collections of Florida's First People artifacts.

Most of Tallant's collecting was done in the 1930s, which has created a collection of more the 5,000 artifacts. Tallant's methods of collecting his artifacts were as unique as his final collection, using metal detectors, shaker screen and his Model A Ford named "Cacique."

His potter collection dates from 300 A.D. until the 1700s and some of the pots tell us the story of Florida's lost tribes. His collection of metals shows a heavy trading process among the Florida natives. Also, used for trade were a variety of glass beads, which date back to the 16^th Century.

In the 1930s Tallant started to look for a buyer for a majority of his collection. Offers came in from around the world, including one from the Smithsonian. He finally decided to sell it to the Bradenton Junior Chamber of Commerce so his life's work remained in Florida.

Tallant's collection can be seen at the South Florida Museum in Tampa, Florida.

The South Florida Museum is open seven days a week during the months of January through April and the month of July. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The museum will be closed during all other months.

Cost of admission is $15.95 for adults, $13.95 for seniors (60+), $11.95 for children (4-12 and children under 4 are free with paying adult admission. Group rates available.

Also inside the South Florida Museum is the Bishop Planetarium and Parker Manatee Aquarium. For additional information visit www.southfloridamuseum.org.