Washington's exhibit was one of the most unique designs of all the states
buildings, showcasing its abundant supply of lumber resources. It stood opposite the United States Fisheries building.
The building was built entirely of wood, the outside of yellow pine, donated to the state by the Northwest Lumber Manufacturers' Association. The building stood six stories high, towering 114 feet to the base of the flag staff, which rose 50 feet higher. Octagonal in structure, eight gigantic diagonal timbers slanted upwards from the ground, like a teepee, and met at the observatory line. All the floors were supported by those diagonal timbers. The building's measurements were 77 by 114 feet, and cost 18,823.10 dollars.
Inside, a staircase of native marble was a unique feature, while the interior was finished with the finer grained woods produced by the state.
Over 400 paintings and photographs were shown in the state building
In the Palace of Horticulture, the state won the grand prize, for "collective exhibit of fruits." Over 1,000 crates of apples were shipped in cold storage to the Fair.
In the Agricultural Building, Washington was awarded grand prize on "collection of cereals, forage grasses, and miscellaneous vegetables;" grand prize on "best one-farm exhibit," and many gold medals."
Lee Gaskins' AT THE FAIR The 1904 St. Louis World's Fair
Web Design and Art/Illustration copyrighted 2008