On November 2, 1915, San Francisco threw open its gates to a glorious world's fair.

A reborn fog city hit the spotlight when the Panama-Pacific Exposition celebrated San Francisco Day. At around 348,472 attendees, the occasion brought in 70% of the city's population. As one of the largest events in SF history, the exposition was organized to commemorate the construction of the Panama Canal, as well as the city bouncing back after the 1906 earthquake. Attend this fantastical affair through vintage photos, drawings, and memorabilia.

Demolition of the Arch of the Rising Sun Building

via James R. Smith/SF City Guides

The Arch of the Rising Sun was a temporary building created for the PPIE. It was demolished after the end of the event, along with the other buildings, displays, concessions, and more, with exception of The Palace of Fine Arts.