The famous theme of the 1939 New York World's Fair was "The World of Tomorrow.” One part of that world, another theme showcased throughout the fair, was “electrification”— the growing use of electricity to light and power not only factories and businesses, but also homes and public spaces. Photographer Peter Campbell captured many scenes from the fair in full color, both during the day and at night—when bright and colorful lighting washed over the pavilions, fountains, and sculptures throughout the fairgrounds. Be sure to also see earlier photo coverage here of the 1939 New York World's Fair.
Color Photos of the 1939 New York World's Fair
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People visit the Trylon and Perisphere at the 1939 New York World's Fair. Inside the Perisphere was a diorama of a futuristic utopian city named Democracity. After viewing, visitors would leave by descending a long spiral walkway named the Helicline. #
Peter Campbell / Corbis via Getty -
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The Life Savers Candy Parachute Jump. Adults paid 40 cents a trip; children paid 25 cents. After the fair, the ride was moved to Coney Island, where it operated on and off until the 1960s. Now closed, the supporting structure still stands there today, visible on Google Street View. #
Peter Campbell / Corbis via Getty -
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Wonder Bread Bakery displays a wheat field exhibit at the 1939 New York World's Fair. The "scarecrow of tomorrow," Penelope Shoo, is wearing an outfit designed by Hattie Carnegie. The wheat field was billed as "the first planted in New York City since 1875." #
Peter Campbell / Corbis via Getty -
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