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Chemin De Fer Du Nord

Title: Chemin De Fer Du Nord
Artist: Anonymous
Year of Publication: 1911
Publisher:
Language: French
Size:
Index Number: 00254

 

Description:

This poster is an advertisement for the French railway.  The caption on the poster reads:  Railroad of the North April-November.  At the bottom is the destination of the railroad, the International Exposition of Northern France which took place in Roubaix from April 30th to November 6th.

The French government sponsored the International Exposition which showcased advancements in industry and featured an air show.  The exposition took place in Barbieux Park, known as Beau Park.  The 350,000 meter park was ideal for large crowds and conveniently located near an airfield staged for the European Circuit of Aviation.  The mainly French exhibitors made up 2,684 of a total of 3,346 international participants including Belgium, Italy, Argentina, Holland, New Zealand, and Australia. 

Roubaix is noted for its production of cotton and wool.  The different exhibits included advances in textile industries, machines, economy and social hygiene, Roubaix’s Chamber of Commerce, mines, hunting, and fishing.  The distinguished President of the Republic Armand Falleries was among the guests attending the exposition.  The exposition garnered 1,702,977 francs profit from admission tickets and was successful in elevating exposure in regard to the textile industry in Roubaix.

The poster’s aerial view of Roubaix at night is interesting because in 1911 night flying was rare as was the use of spotlights.  The unusual image expounds the vision and excitement of early aviation

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