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Correspondence regarding the World's Fair Park

 Collection
Identifier: AR-0589

  • Staff Only

This collection houses correspondence documenting the University of Tennessee's role in the further development of the site of the 1982 World's Fair. Some of the correspondence proposes that the site be used for an Appalachian Pioneer Museum. The collection also contains a report from the working group charged with planning for the site.

Dates

  • 1988-1989

Conditions Governing Access

Collections are stored offsite, and a minimum of 2 business days are needed to retrieve these items for use. Researchers interested in consulting any of the collections are advised to contact Special Collections.

Conditions Governing Use

The copyright interests in this collection remain with the creator. For more information, contact the Special Collections Library.

Extent

0.1 Linear Feet

Abstract

This collection houses correspondence documenting the University of Tennessee's role in the further development of the site of the 1982 World's Fair. Some of the correspondence proposes that the site be used for an Appalachian Pioneer Museum. The collection also contains a report from the working group charged with planning for the site.

Biographical/Historical Note

The Knoxville International Energy Exposition (better known as the World's Fair) was held in Knoxville from May to October 1982. W. Stuart Evans was the original visionary behind the event, which he intended to attract business to central Knoxville and away from suburban shopping malls. This concept excited Mayor Kyle Testerman, and he appointed banker Jake Butcher to head a committee to investigate the feasibility of such an event. The Knoxville International Energy Exposition, Incorporated (KIEE) was formed in 1976 and Exposition bankers gradually acquired the 67 acre fair site near downtown Knoxville. The fair itself attracted about 11 million visitors, but did not achieve Evans' larger goal, as the event did not spur any major downtown redevelopment.

Arrangement

This collection consists of a single folder.

Acquisition Note

Collection was donated to University Archives.

Repository Details

Part of the Betsey B. Creekmore Special Collections and University Archives, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Repository

Contact:
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville TN 37996 USA
865-974-4480