New york convention 1958
The 1958 New York Comic Con, also known as the 1st World Science Fiction Convention, was a groundbreaking event that brought together fans of science fiction, fantasy, and horror from around the world. Here are some key facts about the convention:
Date: March 26-30, 1958 Location: Plaza Hotel, New York City, USA Attendance: Approximately 1,500 attendees Guests of Honor:
- Guest of Honor: Forrest J. Ackerman (editor, writer, and collector of science fiction and fantasy)
- Special Guest: Hugo Gernsback (publisher and editor of Amazing Stories magazine) Program:
- Panels and discussions on science fiction, fantasy, and horror
- Film screenings, including the first public screening of the film "Forbidden Planet"
- Art exhibitions featuring works by science fiction and fantasy artists
- Dealers' room with vendors selling science fiction and fantasy books, magazines, and memorabilia
- Costume contest and masquerade ball Significance:
- The 1958 New York Comic Con was the first major science fiction convention to be held in the United States
- It marked the beginning of the modern science fiction convention era, which has since become a global phenomenon
- The convention helped to establish science fiction as a legitimate and popular genre, paving the way for future conventions and events
Some notable attendees at the 1958 New York Comic Con included:
- Isaac Asimov
- Arthur C. Clarke
- Ray Bradbury
- Frederik Pohl
- Harlan Ellison
- Ursula K. Le Guin
- Robert A. Heinlein (who was unable to attend due to illness, but sent a letter to be read at the convention)
The 1958 New York Comic Con was a groundbreaking event that helped to shape the science fiction and fantasy community as we know it today. It set the stage for future conventions and events, and its legacy continues to be felt in the world of science fiction and fantasy fandom.