Expo '74

Expo '74. Spokane's Introduction to the World. The early 1970s were a time of growing environmental awareness and a worldwide desire to reduce pollution, recognize and protect endangered species and take better care of the planet. Spokane and its river became a perfect venue for this environmental awakening. Decades later the site still serves as a venue for cultural events, community gatherings and a gateway to the natural world., Expo '74 was the World's Fair held at this 100-acre site from May to November 1974. Motivated by the city's centennial, a declining economy, suburbanization and concerns over pollution of Spokane River, a broad constituency of business and civic leaders led by the visionary King Cole worked tirelessly to improve the site, open the city to the river and create an international visitor destination for the World's Fair. , The Union Pacific, Burlington Northern, and Milwaukee Road railroads deeded real estate to Spokane for the World's Fair and the city's future. After extensive marketing efforts, Spokane was recognized by the Bureau of International Expositions as the smallest city to ever host a world's fair. , Expo '74 was opened by President Richard Nixon and closed by President Gerald Ford. It was attended by more than 5 million visitors from around the world. The theme was “Celebrating Tomorrow's Fresh New Environment.”, Countries including the U.S., China, U.S.S.R., Australia and others hosted pavilions introducing visitors to their culture and country's natural environment. , While King Cole is credited as the “father” of Expo '74 and this bridge was named for him at the 20th anniversary of the fair, every sector of Spokane's civic, business and government contributed to the event that changed the face of Spokane forever.