The sun had not set on the British Empire in 1924.

Neither was anyone ordering sunglasses.

Despite the fact that the empire had never been larger--encompassing over one-quarter of the land on Earth, and with possessions on every continent--it was obvious that a crisis was in the making. Foremost was World War One, which had taken a terrible toll on the Mother Country, draining financial resources and wiping out an entire generation of its best and brightest young men.

The India pavilion from the lake. [60K]

Coupled with disastrous decisions by the government, such as letting the crushing post-War unemployment sort itself out rather than intervene, Britain's ability to govern the Empire was diminished.

Concurrently, independence movements, most notably in India, were growing widespread.

Enter the British Empire Exhibition of 1924.

It's purpose was, ...to stimulate trade, to strengthen the bonds that bind the Mother Country to her Sister States and Daughter Nations, to bring all into closer touch, the one with the other, to enable all who owe allegiance to the British Flag to meet on common ground, and to learn to know each other. It is a family party, to which every member of the Empire is invited, and at which every part of the Empire is represented.

Hear H.M. King George V open the 1924 exhibition!

Did the Exhibition succeed in these goals? If we told you here, there wouldn't be much point in visiting the rest of the site, now would there!?

So, scrape together a shilling and sixpence for your ticket and come along to Wembley as we re-open the British Empire Exhibition of 1924!

Please note, however, that this site is only approximately one-third complete and even some of that third is not in final form. I therefore ask for your understanding and encourage you to check back the first week of each month for further additions and revisions.

If you attended the Exhibition and wish to share your memories, or if you have other comments, please e-mail me at: bee1924@yahoo.co.uk