A full one
hundred years removed from the signing of the Declaration of Independence,
America celebrated in style. It was a celebration that was carefully planned
years in advance, and it cost the country lots of time, money, and resources.
Philadelphia
was selected to host this great affair. Historically speaking, there was no
better choice. In 1876, America was the home of the world’s fair - The
Centennial Exhibition - to celebrate 100 years of American freedom. As all
world’s fairs are, it was to be a showcase of cultures, both foreign and
domestic, a grand stage for individual nation’s to show the rest of the world
exactly "what they were made of," a lesson in diversity, and a
celebration of that diversity.
However,
from what I have read, the Centennial Exhibition of 1876 did not quite capture
the worldly sphere of influence that it had hoped for. Instead, it was a
showcase of American strength, pride, and technology. The buildings were
tremendous and beautiful. They all stood firm with an awesome presence. But,
there was one building in particular that held a special significance. It is
possible that even the people who visited the fair did not grasp its
importance. Inside Machinery Hall stood a huge mechanical wonder. Not only was
it the main attraction at the Centennial, but the Corliss Steam Engine
signified the end of an era, and the beginning of another.
For six
months, visitors from all around the world walked through the fair grounds,
just taking in the magnificent sights and exhibits. The Main Building contained
an art gallery that included works from the finest artists in the world. It was
practically impossible to take in the entire gallery in one day (Crew 409).
There was a building for virtually every state in the union and each tried to
emulate the style and character of the state. There was a buildings for
agriculture and horticulture. The fair was simply immense. But, at the center
of it all was the Corliss Engine. Thousands of people a day would come and
stare at the sheer power and grace it exhibited. It was a symbol of the very
power that it possessed.
