The Exposition Universelle

As published in the Sunday Express, London.

May 5th, 1888

The Exposition Universelle
Paris, France

Agnes Wrightman

The Exposition Universelle of 1889, is a remarkable display of cultures and technology. Located in the center of Paris, on either side of the Seine river, the exposition hosts an extensive range of exhibits, in various types of buildings.

Called the World’s Fair by English-speaking cultures, this exposition is much grander than the past Expositions held in Paris, almost double the size of the one held in this magnificent city in 1855,

On the left side of the banks of the Seine:

Technology and Science is the central theme and it does not disappoint. Located in the two large steel and glass buildings, are dedicated to the grand innovations of the last fifty years, and an entire section to the possibilities for the future. Engines, robots, steam-powered equipment of all sorts. Innovations of travel. Displays of chemistry, biology, evolution, and physics astound audiences with regular shows.

In the large glass building directly in front of the fountain, you’ll find plants, trees, and animals from all over the world. Living displays of a tropical rainforest, with birds, fish, flowers, trees, even monkeys, and the largest indoor waterfall composed to date. There is a display of the Orient with rare exotic flora and fauna. Giant water lilies, bamboo trees, and cherry blossoms share the scene with a wide range of birds, and robotic creatures of the elephant and tiger variety. Africa is also represented by the jungle display of green trees and giant flowers.

To the left of that building is a large wooden building that hosts all kinds of innovations in the agricultural world. Everything from modern farm equipment, to the latest in seed technology and animal husbandry. There are plenty of hands-on activities here for children and adults alike.

To the right of that glass building is a small building with a cafe for a quick snack, tea, or coffee though I suggest saving your appetite for the right side.

The right side of the Seine brings you to the international pavilions. Each area of the world has its own sections. Many countries have created their own displays and small wooden buildings with treasures from their land. The Asian and African ones might be the most fascinating of them, in this reporter's opinion, with surprises at every turn. Do not miss the shows in those sections as they need to be experienced. The Americas have their own displays with North, Central, and South each with its own sections, including an outdoor area for a trick riding display where world-famous Anne Oakley, is one of the wonderful riders and marksmen displaying her talent. Europe is certainly featured, as well, with displays and shows from all countries. England has a proud display to our ever-loved Queen Victoria and representatives from British theater do shows featuring highlights of Shakespeare twice daily.

In the next large building, made of glass there is a cornucopia of international delights for all tastes and appetites. Each country represented in the international displays has an eatery where the patron can indulge to their heart's content. Try one or better yet several of these world culinary delights

There is a smaller building which houses displays of magic. Healers are on call at this building. Of particular interest are the folk mages from other lands.

That leads to the pièce de résistance of the Exposition. Standing at 1024 feet in height, taking more than two years to complete. A marvelous feat in steel engineering is the Eiffel Tower. It is located in the center of Paris and the top can be seen from most parts of the city. There is a display of a technological and scientific nature located there, but I’ll let the reader take the full feat of that without spoiling it.

To those that would like a scenic view of the Exposition, balloon rides are available and they are a fun excursion for a few hours.

I highly recommend The Exposition to all that can make their way here.

Tickets are available at the ticket booths located at the entrances on the left and right banks.

Tickets which include train rides to the exhibit are located in the outer provinces at the train stations, admission included.

Tickets are available in London which include a ride to the shores of France on a ferry and then a train ride to the fair, with admission included, which may be purchased at any ferry office.

Tickets for one day are 40 centimes.
Tickets for balloon rides are 30 centimes.
Entrance to climb the Eiffel Tower will cost 5 Francs.
The Exposition Universalle runs until October 31