Photos of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair
The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair celebrated Columbus's arrival, attracting over 25 million visitors, showcasing 65,000 exhibits, introducing innovations like the Ferris wheel, and influencing urban planning and public exhibitions.
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In 1893, Chicago hosted the World’s Columbian Exposition, celebrating the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the New World. The fair attracted over 25 million visitors from May 1 to October 31. Designed by architect Daniel Burnham and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the event transformed a swampy area along Lake Michigan into a 686-acre fairground featuring Venetian-inspired architecture. The exposition showcased more than 65,000 exhibits from 46 countries across over 200 structures. Notable attractions included the original Ferris wheel, designed by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., and innovations such as electric lighting and various new products like Cracker Jack and Juicy Fruit gum. The fair also featured themed restaurants, state exhibits, and a replica of Columbus's ship, the Santa Maria. The event was significant not only for its scale and diversity of exhibits but also for its role in introducing modern concepts and technologies to the public. The fair's legacy continues to influence urban planning and public exhibitions today.
- The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair celebrated Columbus's 400th anniversary and attracted over 25 million visitors.
- The fair featured over 65,000 exhibits from 46 nations and was designed by notable architects.
- Innovations showcased included the original Ferris wheel and electric lighting.
- The event transformed a swampy area into a 686-acre fairground with Venetian-inspired architecture.
- The fair introduced many modern concepts and products to the public, influencing future exhibitions.
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