34 Facts About 1893 Chicago Worlds Fair

The Grand Event

The 1893 Chicago World's Fair, also known as the World's Columbian Exposition, was a monumental event in American history. It celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the New World. Here are some fascinating facts about this grand event.

1. The fair covered 690 acres, making it one of the largest world's fairs ever held.
2. It attracted over 27 million visitors during its six-month run.
3. The fair introduced the Ferris Wheel, designed by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.
4. The Ferris Wheel stood 264 feet tall and could carry 2,160 people at a time.
5. The fair's buildings were designed in the Beaux-Arts style, giving the event a cohesive and grand appearance.
6. The fairgrounds were known as the "White City" due to the gleaming white plaster used on the buildings.

Innovations and Firsts

The 1893 Chicago World's Fair was a showcase for new inventions and ideas. Many things we take for granted today were first introduced to the public at this event.

7. The fair was the first to use alternating current (AC) electricity, thanks to Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse.
8. The first moving walkway, called the "Travelator," made its debut at the fair.
9. Cracker Jack, the popular caramel-coated popcorn and peanut snack, was introduced at the fair.
10. Juicy Fruit gum, another favorite, also made its debut.
11. The fair featured the first public demonstration of the zipper, invented by Whitcomb L. Judson.
12. Pabst Blue Ribbon beer won its name by receiving a blue ribbon at the fair.

Cultural Impact

The fair had a significant impact on American culture, influencing everything from architecture to food.

13. The term "Midway" originated from the fair's Midway Plaisance, an entertainment area with rides and attractions.
14. The fair inspired L. Frank Baum to write "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz."
15. The first commemorative stamps and coins in the United States were issued for the fair.
16. The fair's success led to the establishment of the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.
17. The fair popularized the use of the American flag as a patriotic symbol.
18. The Pledge of Allegiance was first recited in public schools during the fair.

Notable Exhibits and Attractions

The fair featured numerous exhibits and attractions that showcased the best of art, science, and industry from around the world.

19. The Electricity Building showcased the latest electrical innovations, including Thomas Edison's kinetoscope.
20. The Agriculture Building displayed a 22,000-pound cheese from Canada.
21. The Transportation Building featured a golden door designed by architect Louis Sullivan.
22. The Women's Building, designed by Sophia Hayden, highlighted the achievements of women.
23. The Viking ship, a replica of a 9th-century vessel, sailed from Norway to Chicago for the fair.
24. The fair included a replica of the Santa Maria, one of Columbus's ships.

Famous Visitors and Participants

The fair attracted many notable figures of the time, from inventors to writers to politicians.

25. Susan B. Anthony and other suffragists held a Women's Congress at the fair.
26. Helen Keller visited the fair with her teacher, Anne Sullivan.
27. Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, though not officially part of the fair, was a popular attraction nearby.
28. Architect Daniel Burnham was the Director of Works for the fair.
29. Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect behind Central Park, designed the fairgrounds.
30. Scott Joplin, the famous ragtime composer, performed at the fair.

Legacy of the Fair

The 1893 Chicago World's Fair left a lasting legacy on the city of Chicago and the world.

31. The fair led to the creation of the University of Chicago, funded by John D. Rockefeller.
32. The Art Institute of Chicago's current building was constructed for the fair.
33. The fair influenced the City Beautiful movement, which aimed to introduce beautification and monumental grandeur in cities.
34. The fair's success demonstrated the potential of large-scale international expositions, paving the way for future world's fairs.

The Lasting Impact of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair

The 1893 Chicago World's Fair left a lasting mark on history. It introduced innovations like the Ferris wheel, electricity, and Cracker Jack. The fair showcased architectural marvels and influenced urban planning. Many cultural icons and products we know today had their debut there. The fair also highlighted diversity and global cultures, bringing people together from around the world. Its legacy lives on in museums, parks, and public spaces inspired by the event. The fair's impact on technology, culture, and society continues to be felt today. It wasn't just an event; it was a turning point that shaped the future. The 1893 Chicago World's Fair remains a testament to human ingenuity and creativity.