'The 1939-1940 New York World’s Fair, Part 2: Reinvention & Finale' Webinar
Details
Tickets: $12 (includes access to the full replay for one week after the series finale)
Click the link below to officially register for this experience:
What was once a forgotten landfill in Queens emerged as a shimmering metropolis of the future — complete with towering spires, futuristic gadgets, and a global gathering of innovation and spectacle. Over two unforgettable seasons, the 1939–1940 New York World’s Fair dared to reimagine what was possible in the face of economic hardship and looming global conflict. What did it feel like to step into a utopian dream crafted from steel, imagination, and hope for a better tomorrow? It's time to step back in time to relive one of the most ambitious and awe-inspiring events of the 20th century — a fleeting marvel that captivated millions and helped shape the modern world.
Join New York Adventure Club for a captivating two-part series exploring the 1939–1940 New York World’s Fair, a monumental event that sought to uplift a nation during the throes of the Great Depression. In Part Two: Reinvention & Finale, we'll uncover how the Fair’s second season unfolded — from bold leadership changes and fresh exhibits to the poignant dismantling of a dream that once symbolized hope for the future.
Led by Bill Cotter, world's fair expert and author of two books on the 1939–1940 New York World’s Fair, this special experience will include:
- The leadership shake-up and revised marketing strategy that aimed to save the 1940 season
- An overview of new and reimagined exhibits that gave the Fair a fresh identity
- Some of the more eccentric and unexpected displays featured across both years
- Insights into the Fair’s closure and the transformation of its site into Flushing Meadows–Corona Park
- Rare photographs and films highlighting the evolution, final moments, and enduring legacy of the Fair
Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Bill — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay through one week after the entire series concludes.
See you there, virtually!
*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week after the series finale
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week since the series finale, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!
About Bill
Bill Cotter was inspired by the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair to pursue a career in technology, becoming a submarine designer out of college for the US Navy, working on the Polaris-Poseidon-Trident guidance and launch systems. Cotter was then hired by The Walt Disney Company to set up the company's initial computer security. He also contributed to the designs for several major computer-controlled attractions. More recently, Bill retired as a Senior Vice President of Information Systems for Bank of America and is now an active volunteer with the Los Angeles Police Department.
Bill has written 12 volumes about the history of world’s fairs. He has contributed to dozens of books and documentaries and served as a consultant on several movies, including Iron Man 2 (2010) and Tomorrowland (2015). Bill spoke at the 50th anniversary of the 1964/65 New York World’s Fair and Disney’s D23 celebration of the Fair held at Walt Disney World Resort. Bill is also the author of a comprehensive history of Disney television and other entertainment projects, and operates three websites devoted to the study of world’s fairs.
The 1939-1940 New York World's Fair Series
Part 1: Building the Dream (Tuesday, May 13)
Part 2: Reinvention & Farewell (Tuesday, May 20)
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Categories: Virtual, Moments in History
'The 1939-1940 New York World’s Fair, Part 2: Reinvention & Finale' Webinar