Taken by
Steven Martin, these fascinating photos capture the 1982 World’s Fair in Knoxville, Tennessee, an international exposition themed around energy that drew more than 11 million visitors. The images show the distinctive Sunsphere, international pavilions, crowds exploring exhibits, and the lively atmosphere of the six-month event.
From futuristic architecture and cultural displays to everyday scenes of fairgoers, the photos preserve a vivid record of one of the last successful world’s fairs held in the United States. They offer a nostalgic glimpse of Knoxville at a moment when the city stood on the global stage.
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| China Pavilion, 1982 World’s Fair, Knoxville |
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| Circus model exhibit, 1982 World’s Fair, Knoxville |
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| Concert Pavilion, 1982 World’s Fair, Knoxville |
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| Concert Pavilion, 1982 World’s Fair, Knoxville |
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| Esplanade crossing over a street leading to the international pavilions. The Canada and Australia pavilions are visible, 1982 World’s Fair, Knoxville |
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