The Adelaide Jubilee International Exhibition, held in 1887, was a grand affair celebrating the 50th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s reign. It showcased South Australia’s progress and prosperity while also attracting exhibits from across the globe. Meant to highlight advancements in industry, agriculture, and the arts, the Exhibition sought to position Adelaide as a modern and ambitious city on the international stage. The purpose-built Exhibition Building, a magnificent structure in its time, served as the focal point, drawing crowds and fostering a sense of civic pride. The event was a significant boost to the local economy and left a lasting legacy on Adelaide’s cultural and architectural landscape.

The Exhibition Building itself was built opposite the corner of North Terrace and Pulteney Street. Today it is the University of Adelaide’s North Terrace campus, between Bonython Hall and the old School of Mines building on the Frome Road corner. It was opened on 20 June 1887 and was used until the mid 1920s. In 1929 the land and building were transferred to the University, and the building was demolished in 1962 to make way for the Napier building. There were two fountains in front of the building. One is now located in front of the Rundle Mall entrance to the Adelaide Arcade, the other in the Creswell Gardens.