The World Cotton Centennial was a World's Fair held in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States in 1884. At a time when nearly one third of all cotton produced in the United States was handled in New Orleans and the city was home to the New Orleans Cotton Exchange, the idea for the fair was first advanced by the Cotton Planters Association. The name "World Cotton Centennial" referred to the earliest-surviving record of export of a shipment of cotton from the U.S. to England in 1784.
Engraving of the Octagonal Building, part of the Mexico exhibit
Peace, the Genius of History monument from the fair, now on Esplanade Avenue
Publicity for North, Central & South American exposition
Edward Austin Burke or Burk, was the Democratic State Treasurer of Louisiana following Reconstruction. Burke later fled to Honduras after it was discovered that there were misappropriations of state treasury funds. While in Honduras Burke became a major land owner and held government positions within Honduras' nationalized railway systems. He remained an exile until his death nearly four decades later.
Confederate Army document noting Burke's transfer to quartermaster
Major Burke's name inscribed in the north face of the Battle of Liberty Place Monument in New Orleans
Louisiana baby bond with Burke's signature in violet
