On a recent Monday afternoon, Conway artist Tim Morris was found standing in front of one of the large fireplaces in the Great Hall of the Arkansas Governor s Mansion, precisely painting the mantel to look like stone.
In 1876, the United States hosted its first World s Fair in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. World s Fairs in the United States invited participation from each state, with each state funding its own building and displays. Arkansas participation in numerous world s fairs in the United States presented an opportunity to advertise the state s accomplishments and promote settlement.