The Palace of Electricity
The beautiful Palace of Electricity was one of the central structures of
the Exposition, standing opposite the Palace of Education
on the west side of the Grand Basin. The Lagoon system extended entirely
around the building and the approach was by means of several ornamental
bridges. The entire setting was most beautiful. The Palace
of Varied Industries stood on the north, the Palace
of Machinery on the west and the Cascade Gardens rise on the south.
The building covered eight acres and was one of the most costly on account
of the many lofty columns and entablatures, the high towers at corners and
entrances and the liberal use of sculpture. The cost was $400,000. The architecture
was such as to make a picture of unusual beauty when the electric was turned
on and the thousands of bulbs glowed with festive radiance. The sculpture
on the corners was by Bela L. Pratt. The standing figure represented Light,
while at her feet crouch in the shadow of their mantles, figures representing
Darkness. The exhibits in the Palace of Electricity made it a center of
attraction for all who were concerned in electrical progress. The remarkable
advance in electrical engineering and the machinery for a multitude of uses
was seen in operation. Definite progress was made during the years prior
to the fair in the use of electricity in the treatment of diseases. How
it was used was illustrated with X-ray apparatus and the famous Finsen light.
The progress in electric lighting and the use of electric power was shown.
Small but powerful electric locomotives for mining purposes made an intersting
exhibit. The wonders of electro-chemistry were also illustrated.
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