Was held for 100 days from Sept. 18. to Dec 31, 1895 in Piedmont Park. This event was held at a time when the region’s population was only 75,000 and economically depressed. The people of Atlanta raised two million dollars to finance a public exposition. The theme for the exposition was two fold: to exhibit the resources of the Cotton States and to stimulate trade with Spanish American Countries. The exposition attracted over 800,000 visitors from 37 states and foreign countries. Eleven elaborate exhibition buildings were built to house 6,000 exhibits. Principal buildings included the 65,000 sq. ft. US Government Building, the Negro Building, Women’s Building, Georgia Building, Electrical Building. Other attractions included a Ferris Wheel moving picture theater, water rides, reunion of Confederate and Union soldiers, University of Georgia vs. Auburn University football game, the Liberty Bell, Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. President Grover Cleveland and John Philip Sousa composed the …
exposition's official march. The exposition also featured various concerts, parades, and cultural events.
It was a significant event for Atlanta as it showcased the city's determination to overcome economic challenges and promote itself as a center for trade and commerce. The Cotton States and International Exposition played a crucial role in the city's efforts to recover from the aftermath of the Civil War and establish itself as a major player in the South.
The event also had a significant impact on racial dynamics in the city. Although African Americans were initially excluded from participating in the exposition, prominent African American leaders like Booker T. Washington successfully lobbied for inclusion. The Negro Building was then created to showcase the achievements and progress of African Americans.
Overall, the Cotton States and International Exposition of 1895 was a testament to Atlanta's resilience and ambition to rebuild and prosper.