Early American fairs drew inspiration from European counterparts, but their impact was limited.

The Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations, also known as the New York Crystal Palace Exhibition, in 1853-54, mirrored London's Great Exhibition but faced low attendance and financial loss. After this setback, it took over 20 years for another major exposition to occur in the United States.

The structure caught fire during the annual fair of the American Institute. The 2,000 people in the building were evacuated by New York fire fighters. Ironically, the building which was called “fireproof,” burnt to the ground in less than thirty minutes.

Part of an exhibition at the Bard Graduate Center Gallery in Manhattan; J. Clarence Davies CollectionConstructed for the Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations, New York's Crystal Palace occupied the site behind the Croton Reservoir between Fifth and Sixth Avenues at 42nd St., today's Bryant Park. Crowned by a dome 100 feet in diameter, the cruciform structure of cast iron and glass prefigured the glass skyscrapers of midtown. It was destroyed by fire on October 5th 1858.&nbsp;"New York Crystal Palace built for World Fair in 1853," Sidney Currie.

Engraver: William Wellstood Publisher: Smith, Fern and Company

Author : Benjamin Silliman

During its occupation for the annual fair of the American Institute

The New York Crystal Palace Exhibition