"What can you tell me about the first Ferris wheel?
Jenny
Euless, Texas
Dear Jenny:
The Ferris wheel has been a featured attraction at amusement parks and carnivals for over a century. In fact, this twirling contraption has been around for so long, it's easy to forget what an incredible feat of engineering it represented. And the story behind the first Ferris wheel is as amazing as the ride itself.
Invented by a bridge builder from Pittsburgh named George W. Ferris, the wheel first debuted at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. According to legend, the Windy City wanted an attraction that rivaled the Eiffel Tower in Paris, host to the 1889 World's Fair. Architects from all over the country submitted plans for various structures but none were thought worthy -- until Mr. Ferris scribbled down plans for a giant wheel that would spin around on its axis while carrying passengers.
Sounded good in theory, but Mr. Ferris had yet to deliver the goods. He did, and not surprisingly, the Ferris wheel was an instant hit. This article from 1893 captures the enthusiasm visitors felt for the rotating marvel calling the wheel the 'chief sensation of the World's Fair.' The most ardent admirers even went so far as to tie the knot at the attraction.
The Ferris wheel performed perfectly during its original run. It was later sold for the paltry sum of $1,800 and transferred to St. Louis. Failing to attract many riders, the wheel was blown up with 200 pounds of dynamite. A rather undignified end to what was arguably the 'World's Greatest Ride.' "
