'The New York Crystal Palace: America's First World's Fair' Webinar

When the very first World's Fair was hosted in Hyde Park, London in 1851, the United States not only reacted with awe, but also of great envy — this country too wanted to flex its innovation muscle and be recognized as a serious competitor on the global stage. So in true American fashion, it was decided to create a bigger, better, and bolder World's Fair, all centered around a state-of-the-art building that would dazzle the masses. This is the story of the New York Crystal Palace and exhibition that put America on the map.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the New York Crystal Palace and the 1853 Exhibition of the Industry of all Nations, America's first World's Fair that featured four thousand exhibitors showcasing the top marketing, entertainment, and technology innovations of the nation.

Led by Sylvia Laudien-Meo — art historian, museum educator, and NYC tour guide — our journey back in time to one of the country's most influential events will include:

• What inspired America to host its first World's Fair, and details surrounding the architectural competition held to design the exhibition hall
• A closer look at the architecture and design of the Crystal Palace and adjacent 315-foot-tall Latting Observatory — the tallest building in New York at the time
• A selection of ground-breaking exhibitions ranging from sophisticated musical instruments, to innovations in the art of display and promotion, to revolutionary inventions like Elisha Otis’ electric elevator and the Singer sewing machine
• The artwork of the Crystal Palace, from sculptures scattered throughout the building to the exhibition hall's separate picture gallery
• How the fair affected life in NYC, such as sparking the city's first tourist boom, the introduction of a budding souvenir business, and newly composed songs and refreshment sales
• The lasting legacy of the fair, and how the building was used in the years following the exhibition until its untimely demise

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Sylvia — any and all questions about the Crystal Palace are welcomed and encouraged!

Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

**A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

About Sylvia

Sylvia Laudien-Meo is a freelance Art Historian who works in and around the city in various capacities, specializing on Modern and Contemporary art, with a strong focus on Public Art. She teaches art history at Fairleigh Dickinson University and has been working as a museum educator at MoMA, the Guggenheim and the Jewish Museum for over many years, engaging visitors in conversation based, interactive art experiences of permanent collections and changing exhibitions.

For the Municipal Art Society, UFT, Brandeis Univ., and private clients, she has been touring the city for over 20 years, exploring art and architecture, parks, neighborhoods and history. Working in various different capacities gives her a unique opportunity to make intriguing connections and weave together the complex perspectives that make out the tapestry of our fascinating city.

SLM holds a Masters Degree in Art History (with minors in History and American Studies) from the Joh. Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany, as well as a Tourism degree from the EST in Paris France.

Testimonials

"All the details & many photos. Always appreciate Sylvia's analysis & humane, gentle approach. Very knowledgeable @ multiple levels." -Sharon

"I loved the historical context, photos and passion about the location." -Maggie

"Knowledgeable guide and good visuals." -Mary Beth

"The presenter was knowledgeable and engaging." -Kate

"Sylvia always brings interesting topics and broad knowledge. So many enduring items and products highlighted from this exhibition." -Noelle

"Good organization and well prepared presentation." -Mardine

"The photos and the narrative by the speaker. She is very knowledgeable." -Michele

"I liked the discussion on a unique event not normally discussed . Presenter was well-organized and showed some interesting photos" -Charles

"I liked the pictures, the history, connections to other world fairs" -Joel

Disclaimer

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Categories: Virtual, Moments in History

Main Photo: Columbia University Avery Library Archives