Tampa Group Asserts Controversial Property for Sale Contains No Graves

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – A team attempting to auction off a contentious plot adjacent to a graveyard in Tampa claimed that there are no burials or remains present on the property they intend to sell.

Showmen’s Rest possesses a graveyard as well as a plot of land adjacent to Woodlawn Cemetery in Tampa.

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John Perizia serves as the President of Showmen’s Rest and mentioned that a piece of property was bought from the city during the 1950s and transformed into a burial ground for individuals in the carnival and show business sectors.

He mentioned that numerous renowned individuals are interred in the mausoleum, such as celebrated stunt car driver Joie Chitwood, known for his thrilling performances in James Bond films, along with an entire clan of circus performers who pioneered the act of being shot from a cannon.

"The Zacchini family, who were the first to be launched from a cannon, are interred within that mausoleum," Perzia remarked, gesturing towards it.

Perzia intended to be buried there too, however, he mentioned that his group has to sell the land, which currently doesn’t contain any graves, ensuring that both the cemetery and mausoleum will continue to receive proper care even after he passes away.

Perzia mentioned that their group purchased the land from the city, and if there are individuals interred there, it would be the responsibility of the City of Tampa to address the situation.

On Tuesday, Tampa’s City Council deliberated over the matter, during which Councilman Guido Manisalco expressed his support for looking into whether the city should acquire the property.

"I want to check if the council is interested in proceeding with this, and I’m unsure about how we should start discussions with the private property owner for acquisition," Manisalco stated.

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