Introduction · Gateway to the East: China at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair

Welcome to the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition: a monumental “World Fair” hosted by St. Louis at the turn of the 20th century

Now, over 120 years later, we look back at the Fair from China’s perspective. Against the backdrop of the Boxer Uprising of 1899-1901, China aimed to rebuild its image through cultural diplomacy. Witness how China navigated the World’s Fair, led by a Manchu-Qing royal, with a focus on economics, sovereignty, and global representation.

Dive into personal stories from key figures who approached St. Louis in 1904 as a “Gateway to the East":

David R. Francis

Empress Dowager Cixi 慈禧太后

Chen Qi / 陈琪

Desire Eugene Percebois

Wong Kai Kah and Madame Wong

Artisans and Workers

For background on world events and influences, browse:

Facing Realities

Timeline

Map showing locations of Chinese exhibits at the Worlds Fair, 1904.

Please be aware: This exhibit include historic documents containing language that is euphemistic, racist, sexist, or otherwise offensive to contemporary readers.