Jamestown Exposition; Light on the Past

About the Book

This book of picture post cards illustrates the 1907 Jamestown Exposition.

The event was established to celebrate the three hundred years of America’s existence in a fitting manner.  The event included the entire nation as well as countries around the world.  There are one hundred and thirty-five picture post cards in this booklet; showing the houses contributed by the twenty-one States, and the Exhibition buildings with historical items from their home state.  Many of the exhibitions displayed untold treasures some of which are described in this booklet.  And, some of which still exist on the Norfolk Navel Base today.

The “Fair” grounds were designed to give free access too strolling.   The area was surrounded by a fence with climbing flowers to enhance the area with a pleasant garden atmosphere.  Rough, but well worn paths lead over the grounds from one exhibit to another; across rough bridges and throughout wooded areas.

A few of the pictures show the Hampton Roads Harbor.  In 1907, the pictures show Norfolk not to be solidly developed. However, forty years before, during the great Civil War the Merrimac and the Monitor’s battles in those waters had drawn great attention to the area.  The scenes from those two ships are incorporated in this history; reviewing our nations great naval development.

Theodore Roosevelt was President during this period of time.  He showed by his actions, his enthusiasm for this unusual event.  He stated,” that the event was intended to serve the world notice of America’s rich history and powerful place in the world stage: making Hampton Roads, that world stage.”

On opening day the harbor was filled with ships from many nations of the world.

Present also, was our magnificent Atlantic Squadron, which acted as host for the monster ironclads.  In the name of the government of the United States the President had invited all the nations of the earth to take part in the commemorations.  He made it a global character by emphasis on the “international navel, marine, and military celebration.”  Just as President Roosevelt’s yacht, the Mayflower, glided past the many ships in their pre-scheduled locations, and before locating his own port he was given a salute fired by the many ships as he passed.

Most of this history came directly from the Exposition’s Blue Book with its record of the “Fair’s” inception, its development and its completion, the general history and its story are all recorded in that book.  For further reading visit Norfolk City Library, The Major Room.

Mayo O. Stevens

Author of Long Journey

Three Genealogies:

Reynolds/Stevens

Thomas/Osborne

Phillips/Orsburn

(This book is dedicated to my family)

About the Author