Final Report of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition CommissionLouisiana Purchase Exposition Commission
History
Final Report of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition Commission
Louisiana Purchase Exposition Commission
Louisiana Purchase Exposition (1904 : Saint Louis, Mo.)
In the Transportation Pavilion were shown models of boats, panniers, and
carts, howdahs, a buffalo cart, and a buggy in full size. The boat
models were especially interesting. Because of the many navigable rivers
and canals a greater part of transportation is by water; consequently a
large variety of boats has been evolved to meet the various conditions.
The collection of spinning and weaving appliances in the Manufacturers'
Building was large and instructive. Here, too, were many fine examples
of mother-of-pearl work, pottery, hammered silver, and lacquer; also a
collection of mats and textiles, both cotton and silk.
In the Mines and Metallurgy Building were displayed samples of the many
minerals that are found in the country and models of the appliances used
to secure them.
Altogether nearly six thousand individual articles were on exhibition
and represented more completely the industries and resources of Siam
than has any previous collection. In each State or Province of Siam a
local committee was appointed with instructions to gather and forward to
Bangkok at least one example of every article produced either for home
use or sale. From these consignments a selection was made by the
Commission and forwarded to St. Louis. In this way objects representing
every section and all the arts and industries were shown. The total cost
of the exhibition of the Government of Siam was approximately $120,000.
Although the trade of Siam has developed very rapidly during the past
few years, the exhibits sent did not have for their purpose the
extension of commerce with this country. The relations between the
United States and Siam are most cordial. The latter recently accredited
to the United States a minister, and Congress very promptly elevated the
rank of the United States representative to that of minister
plenipotentiary. Thus when the invitation to participate in the
exposition was accepted, prospects of commercial gain were not in
contemplation. The one idea was to contribute in every conceivable
manner to the attractiveness of the exposition and add to its
educational possibilities. The invitation was looked upon by the Siamese
Government as a compliment, and the unselfish manner in which its
acceptance was shown proved conclusively that the compliment was
appreciated.
On the occasion of the exposition there was published by the Commission
a richly illustrated book entitled "The Kingdom of Siam." This work was
presented to the educational institutions of this country, to public
libraries, and to all persons who were known to be interested in Siam.
The book, written by experts, will be an authority for years to come
upon Siam, its climate, resources, people, institutions, and industries,
and will doubtless supplant the writings of hurrying traveler and
transient visitor.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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