National Ecuadorian Exposition Explained

Year:1909
National Ecuadorian Exposition
Organized:Eloy Alfaro
Cnt:9
Country:Ecuador
City:Quito
Venue:Recoleta
Coord:-0.231°N -78.5123°W
Open:10 August 1909

The National Ecuadorian Exposition was a world's fair held in Quito in 1909[1] to mark 100 years since the start of the campaign for Ecuadorian independence from Spain.[2]

The Palace of the Exhibition was formally opened on 10 August 1909 to mark 100 years since the "First Cry for Independence". The fair opened on 8 September.

Participating countries

Countries that presented included Chile, Colombia, France, Japan, Spain, Italy, Peru and the USA.

Ecuador's own pavilion was made from reinforced concrete, two stories tall with a 30 metre dome. On top of the dome there was a statue of an Andean condor with outstretched wings.

The Japanese pavilion was made from Guayaquil wood, and was painted red and white.

The United States pavilion was designed by in the style of the White House.

Prizes

Prizes were awarded on 28 September 1909, with winners including the cognac manufacturer Fromy, Rogée & Co, presidents of all participating countries, and Eloy Alfaro the 'protector' of the exhibition.

Legacy

The Chilean pavilion was given to the National Conservatory of Music,the Colombia pavilion to the city,the American pavilion, to the Military Committee.the Italian pavilion to the Ladies Committee, and an Art Nouveau style cafe became the home of the Ministry of National Defence in 1937.

A Japanese kiosk was given to the commerce of Quitoand Eloy Alfaro gave the Japanese pavilion to the newly formed Sociedad Geografica de Quito (SGQ).[3]

Notes and References

  1. Encyclopedia: Appendix D:Fairs Not Included . Encyclopedia of World's Fairs and Expositions . 426 . Pelle . Findling . McFarland & Company, Inc . 2008 . 9780786434169 .
  2. Web site: Ecuador : Stamps [Year: 1909] [1/2]]. 6 April 2019.
  3. Book: Capello, Ernesto. City at the Center of the World: Space, History, and Modernity in Quito. Mapping the Center of the World. 41.