Meet me in Saint Louis : viewing historic integrity in a continuum of change through an analysis of Forest Park
No Thumbnail Available
Links to Files
Permanent Link
Collections
Author/Creator
Author/Creator ORCID
Date
2006
Department
Program
MA in Historic Preservation
Citation of Original Publication
Rights
To view a complete copy of this manuscript please contact Goucher College Special Collections & Archives at archives@goucher.edu or (410) 337-6075.
Abstract
Nothing defined the United States between the Civil War and World War I like the
world’s fairs. Intended to last less than one year, urban parks in varying locations were
transformed into temporary wonderlands of architecture, landscaping, and exhibits that
had significant impact on technology, popular culture, and consumer tastes for decades to
come. Yet when the fairs were dismantled, cities around the nation were left with parks
and open spaces they did not recognize. Many of these historically significant sites were
transformed by notable landscape architects and returned to service as urban parks,
retaining some elements of their fair roots. However, in the modern day, the alterations
to the sites and their initial short-term vision create challenges for those seeking National
Register of Historic Places recognition for what remains of a significant fair site.
This thesis examines the importance of the remaining landscapes of the world’s fairs
through an examination of Forest Park, Saint Louis, Missouri, site of the 1904 Louisiana
Purchase Exposition. It further examines the National Register requirements for historic
integrity and the possibility of an expanded interpretation of the criteria. Through an
evaluation of the significance of the fairs and the changing landscape of Forest Park,
integrity is viewed through a continuum of change and a broad period of significance that
take into consideration the importance and lasting value of the place.
Through research gathered from secondary materials regarding world’s fairs, Forest
Park maps spanning its 130 year history, documentary evidence from newspapers,
photographs, and National Park Service documents, this thesis proves that in viewing
historic integrity through a continuum of change, a layering of significant elements over
time, Forest Park is eligible for placement in the National Register of Historic Places.
The difficulties in recognizing sites intended for temporary rather than permanent
installation lie in the administrative interpretation rather than in the existing language.
Further, as it is not addressed in major National Park Service publications, new language
is proposed for interpretation of National Register of Historic Places criteria regarding
workmanship and materials as they relate specifically to landscapes.