Historian Robert Dion recently conducted a captivating visual exploration of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair at GreenFields of Geneva senior living community, using a collection of photos and artifacts. In an event titled “Celebrating the Impact of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair,” Dion, a resident of Homewood-Flossmoor, shared insights from his 25 years of research on the fair, revealing its significant role in attracting 26 million visitors over a span of six months.
During the presentation, Dion showcased images and artifacts from his personal collection, providing a glimpse into the fair’s grandeur. Noteworthy facts about the fair were highlighted, including the massive undertaking of 10,000 workers constructing the fairgrounds in six months, spanning 600 acres and featuring 200 temporary buildings. Admission tickets, costing 50 cents at the time, would equate to approximately $13 in today’s currency.
The fair boasted impressive statistics, such as 65,000 exhibits, 6,000 lectures, and groundbreaking innovations like the world’s first Ferris wheel, a movie theater, moving sidewalk, zipper closure, and mechanical dishwasher.
The iconic Ferris wheel, towering at 250 feet, could accommodate 2,160 people simultaneously in its 36 cars, each holding 60 people. Attendees were treated to a plethora of refreshments, including now-familiar delights like brownies, hot dogs, Cracker Jack, Juicy Fruit gum, Cream of Wheat, and Pabst Beer, later renamed Pabst Blue Ribbon following the fair.
GreenFields sponsored this enlightening event as part of a series of guest lectures and cultural activities aimed at promoting lifelong learning. For those interested in additional details, inquiries can be made by calling (630) 590-9627.
The full story is available on the Daily Herald website: Revisiting 1893 Chicago World’s Fair at GreenFields of Geneva.
