US World's FairIn 1853, the first US World's Fair opened in New York.Born of a desire to recreate and, if possible, surpass the British Crystal Palace exhibition of 1851, it was promoted by New York businessmen, including Horace Greeley. Modeled after London's impressive structure, the iron and glass New York Crystal Palace was an octagonal form, with Greek-cross superstructure abutting a round dome at the center and tall minarets at the outer angles. The building housed 4,854 exhibitors, of whom about half came from 23 foreign nations. The roof of the ill-fated Crystal Palace leaked and heavy rains ruined exhibits and soaked visitors. Delays, poor management and dwindling attendance caused the exposition to close with a substantial loss. |
