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The power behind the fair

Here at the World’s Columbian Exposition, electric power reigns. Its invisible particles connect all the marvels on display. Thousands of electric lamps illuminate the pathways of the extensive grounds, the facades and interiors of the magnificent buildings, and the 65,000 exhibits. In fact, electric power drives everything that moves or makes sounds in the fair.

On May 1, 1893, President Grover Cleveland opened the fair by pressing a gilded telegraph key and closing an electrical circuit, thus setting all the machinery of the fair into motion.

Grover Cleveland

The Hall of Electricity continuously draws large, lingering crowds. In the hall, a multitude of devices demonstrate the potential of electric power. Here are just a few of the marvelous devices on display:

  • dynamos for generating power
  • flatirons for pressing clothing
  • electric sewing machines
  • dining-room fans
  • elevators
  • toys, including speaking dolls and miniature railroads
  • cylinder phonographs for playing music
  • multiple drill presses