Tilden Regional Park: Brazilian Room – Berkeley CA

Description

The Brazilian Room in Tilden Park began as the Brazil Pavilion at the Golden Gate International Exposition on Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay in 1939. The interior wood was used to reconstruct a new building in Tilden Park, using the labor of relief workers in the Works Progress Administration (WPA). It was completed at the present site in 1940 or 1941.

The Berkeley Historical Society recounts the building’s history: “The Brazilian Room derives its name from its rich hardwood paneling. These walls were once part of the Golden Gate International Exposition’s ‘World’s Fair’ famed Brazilian Pavilion, displayed on Treasure Island in 1939. When the exposition ended, the Brazilian Room was presented to the East Bay Regional Park District by the country of Brazil as a gift of friendship. Because the exterior of the building was perishable, the building was dismantled for transport to Tilden Regional Park. The Works Progress Administration built a new permanent exterior, combining local rock and timber with the beautiful walls, floors and fixtures from Brazil.”

This work was part of a major New Deal effort to aid the East Bay Regional Parks District (EBRPD) in improving  its four original parks and making them available for public recreation.  

The Brazilian Room is a very popular venue for weddings and receptions. It has stone terraces and a large lawn area in front that makes it especially attractive for events.