Tower of Jewels (PPIE) facts for kids
The Tower of Jewels was a very important building at the Panama–Pacific International Exposition. This was a big world's fair that happened in 1915. It was held in San Francisco, California.
History of the Tower
The Tower of Jewels was designed by an architect named Thomas Hastings. His company was called Carrère and Hastings. This amazing building was a mix of a triumphal arch and a tall tower. It stood 435 feet (about 132.5 meters) high.
The tower was covered with over 100,000 special "jewels." These were 1-7/8 inch (47 mm) wide pieces of cut glass called Novagems. They sparkled brightly in the sunlight. At night, more than fifty spotlights made them glow. The building was first just called "The Tower." But because it was so beautifully covered in these jewels, people started calling it "The Tower of Jewels."
Right in front of the tower was the Fountain of Energy. This fountain flowed in the middle of the South Gardens. On one side was the Palace of Horticulture. On the other side was the Festival Hall. The arch of the Tower of Jewels was like a grand entrance. It led into the Court of the Universe. From there, you could go to the Court of the Four Seasons or the Court of Abundance.
The Tower of Jewels was not built to last forever. It was a temporary building. It was made from a material called "staff." This material is a mix of plaster and a strong fiber, like burlap. It was put over a frame made of wood and steel. After the Exposition ended, the tower was taken down.
Before the tower was demolished, all the Novagems were removed. Each "jewel" had a small brass medal attached to it. This medal showed that the jewel had been on the tower during the fair. These jewels were then put into individual boxes. They were sold to people for $1.00 each as souvenirs.
Images for kids
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The Tower of Jewels behind the "Fountain of Energy"
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The tower at night
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Panoramic view of the tower at night
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The Avenue of Palms with the tower at background
