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| OKLAHOMA'S PAVILION IN THE AGRICULTURAL BUILDING -
As
may be seen at a glance in the engraving, the new Territory of
Oklahoma erected one of the most peculiar and characteristic
pavilions to be found among the oddities and fancies of the cereal
architects in Chief Buchanan's large domain. This section was
situated prominently in the first aisle away from the west wall, at
the southwest corner of the main building. Sorghum and corn served
as the principal materials of the builder, and canopied many other
displays. From the ceiling depended great bunches of grasses, and a
pyramid of jars formed the central feature of the exhibit. Cane,
cereals and vegetables were displayed with a profusion that led the
visitor to marvel upon the swift march of agriculture across the
"Great American Desert," which was a central tract in all school
geographies of Lincoln's time. The Territory of Oklahoma was settled
while the last World's Fair was in the midst of its splendor at
Paris, in 1889, and sat here among sister States in 1893 as visible
as were they, occupying as much space, courting as much attention,
receiving as many visitors, hoping to gain as many new residents.
The National Commissioners of Oklahoma were Pthniel Beeson, of El
Reno, and Frank R. Gammon, of Guthrie; the Alternate Commissioners
were John Wallace, of Oklahoma City, and Joseph W. McNeal, of
Guthrie. Mrs. Guthrie was one of the Lady Managers, and Mrs. Beeson
was her colleague. |
