Meet an Expo Enthusiast: Christopher Medina
- jason.griffing
- May 19
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 2
Christopher is an Expo enthusiast who has never attended a World Expo during its official run. In fact, he was not yet born when the one he is most passionate about took place. His interest centers on Expo 1968 San Antonio, also known as HemisFair 68. Although he did not attend the event, Christopher has developed a deep interest in it and has been following the excitement of World Expos since Expo 2010 in Shanghai.
There are many reasons someone might become fascinated by a particular Expo or by Expos in general. Family history, geographic connection, historical research, and collecting memorabilia are just a few. Christopher's family moved to San Antonio in the early 1980s, so he does not have any direct connection to Expo 1968. This often leads people to ask, "If you have no personal connection to HemisFair 68, how did you become so interested in it, especially to the point where you are considered a leading source?"
The answer lies in two of his longtime interests. Christopher's first job was at a local theme park, and he still enjoys visiting them today. Combined with a love of history and architecture, that background sparked his fascination with the Expo site and its legacy. Once he began researching it, he was hooked.
As with many Expo enthusiasts, Christopher's favorite World Expo is the one held in his hometown: San Antonio’s HemisFair 68. He believes this is partly because a simple curiosity in 2006 grew into a full preservation project. That journey has taken him to unexpected places, both in the world of Expos and within his local community.
What Christopher enjoys most in his research is discovering the magic of the atmosphere within a World Expo site. Many of the people he has interviewed speak about HemisFair 68 as if it happened just yesterday, even though more than 50 years have passed since its closing day on October 6, 1968.
The Tower of the Americas Theme Pavilion from Hemisfair '68 and a view from the rotating restaurant at the top.
The stories he has collected help bring the Expo’s physical history to life. Memorabilia, remaining buildings, and firsthand accounts all contribute to a powerful sense of connection. When he finally attends his first World Expo, he hopes to experience it with someone else. He believes the event would be even more meaningful when shared, especially since each Expo is unique.
Performers at the Mexico Pavilion Water Ski Show Model of the Expo site
Through his research on the San Antonio World Expo, Christopher has uncovered many memorable stories. Some of the most compelling focus on the Pavilion of the United States of America.
The 4.5-acre pavilion site remains largely intact today. Key features such as the Confluence Theater, Confluence Exhibit Hall, the central courtyard, and the outline of the Migration Fountain are still present.
The original film produced for the pavilion has recently been reconstructed and can now be viewed in its complete 25-minute format.
Christopher has had the pleasure of interviewing several former staff members from the pavilion in great detail. One of the hostesses was especially generous in donating her original uniform and other memorabilia to his HemisFair 68 collection.
He recalls a recent moment while transcribing an oral history interview with one of the pavilion's tour guides. As he listened to the restored film playing in the background, he felt a deep emotional connection. He could picture himself in the theater, watching the film and seeing his new friends in their various roles throughout the pavilion.
Christopher has also collected materials related to US President Lyndon B. Johnson’s visit to HemisFair 68. On July 4 of that year, the President gave a speech on the steps of the United States Pavilion at the Confluence Theater.
The United States Pavilion US President Johnson speaking at the US Pavilion
Christopher hopes to attend a future World Expo in person. Although each Expo is built around a unique theme, he is especially drawn to the long-standing traditions that unite them. Through his research, he has identified several consistent elements that define the Expo experience. These include the collectible souvenir passport, the Flag Plaza featuring all participating nations, national and special days, and the energy each country brings in presenting its very best.
To date, Christopher has built an impressive collection of more than 3,500 items related to Expo 1968. His archive includes oral histories, memorabilia, records from individuals who worked for the Expo Corporation, selected design documents, an employee uniform, and building materials from three structures originally constructed for the event. Two of those buildings have since been demolished, which makes the preserved materials even more valuable.
Christopher with Tommy Worrell who performed at Hemisfair '68
If given the opportunity to work at a future World Expo, Christopher’s top choice would be the Architecture and Planning Office. Before beginning his career in the aerospace industry, he studied drafting in college and had a strong interest in architecture. One of the aspects he enjoys most about studying Expos is seeing how each one reflects the architectural style of its time. Expos of the 1960s featured a mid-century modern aesthetic, while more recent ones showcase organic and flowing designs. In his HemisFair '68 research, he has had the privilege of interviewing several architects involved in designing the original site.
Christopher remains deeply committed to preserving the history and memory of Expo 1968 San Antonio, known as HemisFair 68. His dedication helps ensure that future generations will understand the Expo’s contributions to the city and the way it brought San Antonio to life during its run. We thank individuals like Christopher for their passion and commitment to keeping Expo history alive and hope to see him attend a World Expo in the near future.
We also encourage you to explore the website Christopher created to document and share the story of HemisFair 68. It is a remarkable resource filled with historical details and rare materials related to Expo 1968 in San Antonio - Home - HemisFair '68 Online
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