The Italian Pavilion displayed a combination of classical Roman and modern Italian architecture in its design. A statue of the goddess Roma stood atop a 200 foot high pedestal with a waterfall cascading down the steps into a pool at the base of the monument which was dedicated to Marconi.
First floor exhibits included Italian handicrafts, tourism, industrial advancements, mechanical industries, naval, aeronautical and electro-technical advancements, perfumes, toiletries and products of wool, silk, cotton and rayon.
Under the supervision of the Italian Line and its famous matres d'hotel and chefs, the Restaurant and Night Club on the second floor, with its terraces, fountains, flowers and music, reflected the spirit that annually attracted thousands of visitors to the country of Italy.
by Arie van Dort
Harry Tripoli, unemployed for over a year, found out he could not get a job as a swimmer at Billy Rose’s Aquacade. To show his prowess in the aquatic arts, Harry stripped down to a pair of trunks and performed a routine in the Italian Pavilion’s pool for four to five minutes before the fair police arrived. When questioned about his motives, Tripoli professed that with a few months’ training under a good coach, “I’d challenge anybody Billy Rose has got, including Johnny Weissmuller.” He paid the $5 fine for disorderly conduct.
Historical Society - wf-196
by Arie van Dort
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