the exhibition buildings were demolished. They were replaced by a single hall that covered . At the time, it was said to be the largest single building under one roof. Originally called the International Petroleum Exposition Center (and often called the IPE Building), it was funded by a $3.5 million bond issue in 1966, and upon completion became home to the International Petroleum Exposition. The Golden Driller statue was relocated to the main entrance of the building. Demise of the IPE The 1966 exhibition had the largest attendance in its history. The 1971 show was also successful. However, conditions in the industry were changing. Oil production had greatly moved outside of the United States and foreign producers had greater influence over the markets. Oil production also had moved offshore, as land-based wells had become relatively less profitable. The Houston-based Offshore Technology Conference siphoned attention away from the IPE. Attendance declined further in 1976. Oil prices collapsed in the late 1970s and early 1980s. After only 20 thousand visitors attended the 1979 exhibition, the IPE was permanently cancelled. The former IPE Building was later renamed as the Tulsa Expo Center. See also Golden Driller Tulsa Expo Center References Trade shows in the United States [[ 1923 establishments in Oklahoma ]] 1979 disestablishments in Oklahoma Recurring events established in 1923 Recurring events disestablished in 1979 Festivals established in 1923 Tulsa State Fair