Spanish, American Territorial, Antebellum-Statehood, War and Reconstruction, and 20th Century. This enabled each period to have a float as well as another entry of their choice into the parade to represent their era of history.
Spanish Krewe The Spanish Krewe is currently the largest krewe and represents Spanish Florida from 1528 to 1821 and
Hernando de Soto's explorations in Florida in 1539. The Spanish Krewe is engaged in numerous
philanthropic activities throughout the year. Spanish Krewe participates heavily in each of the five major parties of Springtime Tallahassee, plus Float Day.
American Territorial Krewe The American Territorial Krewe represents Florida when it became a United States territory. On March 4, 1824 Governor
William P. Duval named Tallahassee the official state capital. Later that year the town was officially named Tallahassee. Tallahassee was incorporated in 1825.
Antebellum Krewe The Antebellum Krewe represents the period from 1825–1860 when northern planters moved south to the fertile lands of
Leon County. Tallahassee enjoyed social and political development during this period. The nephew of
Napoleon Bonaparte,
Prince Achille Murat and his wife
Catherine Willis Gray, the grandniece of
George Washington settled at
Bellevue, and became prominent citizens of this community. Florida became the 27th state in 1845 with a population of 66,500. The Krewe collects canned and dry goods and gently used coats and blankets for donation to a local charity. The Krewe's basic theme is southern charm and hospitality.
War and Reconstruction Krewe The War and Reconstruction Krewe represents the period from 1861–1900 and the
American Civil War. Tallahassee was the only southern capital east of the
Mississippi River not captured by the Union troops. War & Reconstruction Krewe members wear period clothing with women in dresses from the 1865–1900 time period. This included
bustled dresses and
hoop skirts. Men are also suitably dressed for the period. A costume consultant will help any Krewe member find the perfect outfit. The time period includes the Civil War and the reconstruction period.
20th Century Krewe The 20th Century Krewe represents Tallahassee as it grew from a sleepy Southern town to become the thriving capital city of the fourth-largest state in the U.S. Florida state government has been the primary industry. Agriculture, timber and
cattle have also played roles in the development of the city's economy. The population of Tallahassee was only 3,000 at the beginning of the century, and now has a population of about 190,000.
Belles and Gents A service organization, the Springtime Belles and Gents are composed of high school-age young women and men who are children as well as grandchildren of Springtime members. The young people undergo a training period that encompasses the study of the history of Tallahassee and Florida, as well as instruction in poise, good grooming, and etiquette. They participate in civic, social and government activities. Mr. and Miss Springtime are selected on acquiring community service points, knowledge of Tallahassee and Florida history, interviews by community judges and a vote of their peers. They receive a $500 scholarship from Springtime and are announced at the annual Coronation Ball, and reign during the Springtime Festivities. They, along with senior members, are formally presented to Springtime Tallahassee membership at the Springtime Grand Ball.
Governor's Staff Though not truly a krewe, it is a separate unit within Springtime Tallahassee like a sixth krewe. Two members of Springtime are chosen to portray the Governor and his wife the First Lady. The Governor and First Lady serve together with the President and the General Chairman, as representatives of the organization. The Governor's Staff is composed of members of the five Krewes, having been selected by each Krewe for a five-year term. == Springtime organization ==