These fantastic vintage glasses from the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair are the perfect vessel for a summery long drink, specially The Space Needle created by Trader Vic. Thank you @vignettesbymelissa for this amazing addition to the home bar. I absolutely love them!
THE SPACE NEEDLE
1 1/2 oz Light Puerto Rican Rum
1 1/2 oz Dark Jamaican Rum
1 oz Curaçao
1 1/2 oz Lemon Juice
3/4 oz Orgeat
Blend in a mixer with one scoop of ice.
THE HISTORY
The 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, known as Century 21 Exposition, was a transformative event for Seattle. Held from April 21 to October 21, it attracted nearly 10 million visitors. The fair’s theme focused on science, space, and the future, reflecting the era’s Space Race.
Key attractions included the iconic 605-foot Space Needle, the U.S. Science Exhibit (now Pacific Science Center), and the Monorail. The fair required significant infrastructure improvements, including downtown beautification and transportation upgrades.
Century 21 served national interests during the Cold War, showcasing American scientific prowess. It also aimed to inspire youth to pursue science careers and influence international opinion favorably toward the U.S.
The fair’s legacy is still evident in Seattle Center, a permanent cultural complex. It contributed to Seattle’s transformation from a regional city to a global player, laying groundwork for its current status as a tech hub.
The event embodied a spirit of innovation and forward-thinking that continues to shape Seattle’s identity. Its impact on culture, architecture, and aspirations makes it a defining moment in Seattle’s journey to becoming a 21st-century global city.