Accession Number: 1991.91
Scope & Content: Certificate from the Paris Universal Exposition, 1878, in recognition of the work of APH. Text of award reads: "Exposition Universelle de 1878. Le Jury International des Recompenses Decerne Une, Medaille d'Argent a L'Imprimerie des Aveugles de Louisville (Kentucky) (Etats-Unis). Groupe II, Classe 6. Paris Le 24 Octobre 1878." In decorative dark-wood frame with glass. Frame has gilt trim surrounding the opening. Hanging wire on reverse. Date of framing not known.
Creator: Exposition Universelle
Interview Date: / /
Collection: APH Collection
Credit Line: APH Collection, 1991.91
Administrative History: The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) sent an exhibit of books and a raised map to the third Paris World's Fair, held from May 1 though November 10, 1878. The exposition was on a grand scale, covering over 66 acres; the main building in the Champ de Mars occupying 54 acres. Among the many inventions on display was Alexander Graham Bell's telephone. In June, a switch was thrown and the area was lit by electric light bulbs, invented by Thomas Edison, who also had on display a megaphone and phonograph. International juries judged the various exhibits, awarding medals of gold, silver and bronze. Over 13 million people paid to attend the exposition, making it a financial success. Concurrent with the exposition, a number of meetings and conferences were held to gain consensus on international standards. French writer Victor Hugo led the Congress for the Protection of Literary Property, which led to the eventual formulation of international copyright laws. Similarly, the International Congress for the Amelioration of the Condition of Blind People urged the world-wide adoption of the Braille System of touch-reading. After the exhibition closed, the APH exhibit was donated to the Institution Nationale des Jeunes Aveugles de Paris.
Subjects: Awards Exhibitions
Rights: Contact museum staff regarding reproduction.