Memphis Industrial Exposition, circa 1874

Creators

Preview

Source Collection

Stereograph card collection, Special Collections Department, University of Memphis Libraries

Identifier

sc.0461.001_008.012

Description

An interior view of the Memphis Exposition Hall, circa 1874. Like many other cities in the nineteenth century, Memphis, Tennessee, held industrial expositions. An Exposition Hall designed by James B. Cook was built on Jefferson and the southwest corner of 4th Street. The first Industrial Exposition opened on October 12, 1872. It was a big success and new exhibitions were held every year through 1888. Although each exposition lasted only one month, the Memphis Exposition Hall was used year-round. After an exposition closed, the hall was used for huge masked balls during Carnival, Christmas, and special occasions. Seats were brought in and the great halls were then used for vaudeville acts and theatre performances and circuses. Conventions were also held there, and toward the end of its life the hall found its perfect use - as a roller skating rink.

Date Created

2021

Date

circa 1874

Recommended Citation

"Memphis Industrial Exposition, circa 1874" (2021). Other images. 19.
https://digitalcommons.memphis.edu/speccoll-mss-stereographcard2/19