architect Mr. Clarence Luce, and the plans and drawings which we have
decided upon from his hand give promise of a structure that the State we
represent will be proud of, and we shall also endeavor to so furnish it
and utilize its facilities as to make it a serviceable and attractive
addition to the large number of State buildings that are to be erected
in its vicinity.

"Everything has to have a beginning, so we are here to-day to begin our
work of actual construction, and it is specially fitting that we should
have present the Governor of New York to assist in the ceremonies
attendant therewith, for he has always heartily supported the project of
the St. Louis Exposition and has furthered its interests on every
occasion. Therefore, on behalf of the New York State Commission, I ask
you, Governor Odell, to honor the great World's Fair of 1904 by
performing the first actual work upon the structure we propose to erect
by turning the first spadeful of earth for the State of New York and the
New York State building."

The Governor responded briefly, commending the Commission for its work,
predicting wonderful benefits to accrue from the Exposition and
prophesying that New York would be at the forefront in all of its
departments, after which he lifted the first spadeful of earth upon the
site. He then handed the spade to Mrs. Odell, who lifted another sod;
after which various ladies in the party performed the same act; at the
conclusion of which the assemblage adjourned.


OPENING OF THE BUILDING

The building of the State of New York was the only building on the