Golden Gate International Exposition Commission

The Legislature of 1937 appropriated $25,000 to have the state of Utah represented at the Golden Gate International Exposition in San Francisco. The commission rented exhibit space in the Western States Building and created an exhibit to display dioramas of the scenic wonders of the State, hoping to attract tourist travel to Utah. The fair opened February 18, 1939 and closed October 28. However, the exposition was later reorganized and operations extended through 1940 with Utah invited to participate. The exhibit was modified and continued through 1940 with surplus funds and some exhibit materials left from the New York World's Fair commission. Activities and financial statements were reported to the governor.

Five preliminary members were appointed by the governor: O.F. McShane, David Smith, Ezra C. Knowlton, Sumner G. Margetts, and E.S. Holmes. In February 1938 the permanent committee members were appointed: Frank M. Browning; Stanley J. Stephenson; Willi am M. Knerr; B.D. Nebeker; O.F. McShane; Mrs. David L. Rice; Jas. A. McMurrin; Edward C. Maw; Will R. Holmes; Fred S. Mulock; B.O. Colton, Jr.; Alex Hedquist; Mrs. J.L. Asbury; L.L. Taylor; H.J. Plumhof; Geo. J. Gibsson; Sol J. Selvin; Wm. Shay; Mrs. R.E.L. Collier; and E.S. Holmes. Frank Browning was named chairman by the governor. He in turn named Plumhof vice-chairman and E.S. Holmes, secretary. When Plumhof asked to be relieved of the office, Stephenson was appointed; Stephenson was replaced later in the year by Gibson.