In 1901 the Lord Mayor, Edward Fitzgerald,proposed to Cork Corporation the holding of an International Exhibition in Cork.An Exhibition Committee was elected and they duly set out purchase suitable property to host the event.They bought a property called "The Shrubberies" which was located beside the Mardyke Walk and also leased adjoining land.Buildings to house the exhibition were constructed which would feature a Grand Concert Hall,Industrial and machinery exhibits and an amusement section which featured the Great Water Chute and a Switchback Railway.The exhibition was held in 1902 and again in 1903. The event was a success story and one of the many highlights was the visit of King Edward V11 and Queen Alexandra in August 1903.Most of the buildings were dismanteled after the 1903 exhibition and it was decided to present the grounds to the people of Cork as a recreational park which was named "Fitzgerald Park" to honour the Exhibitions initiator who was also honoured by being created a baronet.