Tennessee Centennial Exposition

When Tennessee approached its 100-year anniversary, the state decided on a Grand Centennial Exposition. Tennessee wanted to be known as the Athens of the western hemisphere (which later became known as the Athens of the South).

They decided on constructing an exact replica of the Parthenon in Athens Greece, 26 other buildings followed including the Memphis Pyramid, Negro Building, Cuban Building, Knights of Pythias building and many others.

The Centennial offered displays of Tennessee’s products and resources, complete with games and rides for the attendees. Through bureaucratic red tape, the celebration did not officially open until 1897. The Parthenon still stands in what is now known as Centennial Park.