New Alligator Wrestling Exhibit Opens at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum

The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum provides a fun and educational experience for all. It’s home to over 180,000 unique artifacts and numerous exhibits ready to be explored. It also pays tribute to the Seminole Tribe and their revered history. On Monday, Dec. 16th, the Ah-TahThi-Ki Museum will unveil their latest exhibit; ‘Alligator Wrestling: Danger. Entertainment. Tradition.’ The alligator wrestling exhibit will express the importance of the longstanding tradition and its evolving role in the Seminole Tribe over time.

Alligators and Seminoles

Alligators and Seminoles have a long history together. Long ago, alligator wrestling was used practically, as opposed to for showmanship. Alligators were caught for their hides and meat. They were also believed to be used during ceremonial practices. These important functions would help the Seminoles thrive, particularly from the swampy Florida Everglades, once thought to be uninhabitable. Later, alligator would play another vital role: in the trade game. The first Seminole trading post opened in Fort Lauderdale in the late 19th century, igniting a new era of expansion for the Seminoles. Soon, posts in Fort Myers, Stuart, Miami, and Tampa would follow. Here, handcrafted items and pelts, plums and hides were sold. This included that of the almighty alligator, in exchange for ammunition, metal, guns and the like. Around 1910, alligators began to serve an entirely new purpose for the Seminoles: tourism.

History of Alligator Wrestling

The exact origin of alligator wrestling showmanship is still widely debated. Some believe an alligator farm tourist attraction in Miami merged with a nearby Seminole Camp. Others, that a passerby threw money to a Seminole during an alligator capturing encounter, telling them it “makes for a great show”. The reality is likely a combination of avenues that aligned at just the right time. Thankfully, it has led to the development of the demonstrations we enjoy today.

Exhibit Details

One of the best things about the upcoming Alligator Wrestling exhibit is how intricate and informational it can be. The connection between alligator and Seminole goes back even further than touched upon here. During the exhibit, you can expect to be accompanied by two young Seminole children. Curious about alligator wrestling, they learn about the alligator’s cultural significance, biology, the value of tradition, the dangers of wrestling, and more. On the journey, it will become evident how alligator wrestling is so much more than just entertainment.

Additional Information

For an even more interactive experience, a reception to celebrate the new opening will be held on Saturday, January 11th 2020, from 1 to 4pm. It will include a catered lunch, guest speakers, the screening of documentary film Allapatah, and, of course, an alligator wrestling show. Best of all, it’s included in the price of the museum admission ticket! The reception is one of the best ways to partake in this cultural experience. ‘Alligator Wrestling: Danger. Entertainment. Tradition.’ will remain open now until December 2020.