A look at the 1939-40 New York World's Fair - Part 2
Color photography was still relatively new during the run of the Fair, with few hobbyists able to afford the extra expense involved. Happily some color shots have emerged, which help to better showcase the beauty of the many pavilions and statues. These are most effective in showing the Fair at night, as seen in some of the samples below.
The theme structures of the Fair were the triangular Trylon and the globe-shaped Perisphere. These massive structures (the Trylon stood 700 feet tall) could be seen from far outside the Fairgrounds. They are among the most well known symbols of all World's Fair, second only to the Eiffel Tower.
Guests entered the Trylon and and moved on to the Perisphere via the world's longest escalator. Inside they were treated to Democracity, which predicted the future world of 2039. Afterwards they could enjoy views of the grounds as they left via a long sloping walkway known as the Helicline. (CD #1 Set 1 #401F)
The Fair was a visual treat, with many large statues spread between art deco pavilions. This is a view of "Riders of the Elements" by Chester Beach. The nearby Firestone pavilion produced sample tires in front of visitors, who were first treated to a tour of a rain forest full of rubber trees. (CD #1 Set 1 #4114)
As impressive as the Fair was during the day, it became a truly special place indeed at night. This photo shows a close-up detail of "Time and Fates of Man", the world's largest sundial, with the Perisphere behind it. Even this late at night a long line of visitors can be seen waiting to get inside. "Time and Fates of Man" was designed by Paul Manship, who created many of the beautiful statues seen at the Fair. He also is well known for "Prometheus", which stands today at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan. (CD #1 Set 1 #4129F)
The Du Pont Pavilion thrilled visitors with a colorful lighting display. Off to the left is the Parachute Jump, which was sponsored by Lifesavers Candy. This legacy of the Fair stands today in Coney Island. While no longer in operation as a ride, it has become an icon and local landmark. (CD #1 Set 1 #4123F)