Chicago played host to The World's Fair of 1893 in unprecedented fashion. The keynote of the fair was to highlight the 400 year anniversary of Columbus's voyage to America. Yet, with a somewhat soft undertone America attempted to show the world that she had grown and could emulate the chic cities of Europe. I'm reminded of a great quote from Martin Scorceses' adaptation of The Age of Innocence, "It seems stupid to have discovered America only to make it into a copy of another country". But, this was in fact the goal of director's of The World's Columbian Exposition. The group was led by Charles H. Wacker with architectural direction from
Daniel Burnham landscape design by
Frederick Law Olmstead These men sought to impress attendees with the advent of a new style of urban planning referred to as the City Beautiful Movement. The movement didn't seek beauty for the sake of beauty, but as a social control devise for creating moral and civic virtue among urban populations. Spectacular structures were designed by some of America's most prominent architects such as; Richard Morris Hunt and Charles McKim. One participating architect,Louis Sullivan, did not agree with the committee's idea and thought that "the fair set the course of American architecture back for half a century from its date, if not longer." His polychrome pronto-modern Transportation building was an exception to the prevailing Beaux-Arts style as he tried to develop an organic American form. Consequently, his was the only building to receive extensive recognition outside of America earning him three prominent architecture awards.
-Map of the fairgrounds which covered over 600 acres
-The horticulture dome
-Court of the Grand Basin
-The Art Palace
One of the greatest, and most financially successful attractions of the fair was the Ferris Wheel. Designed by George Ferris, this magnificent machine measured 264 feet high with 36 cars each accommodating 60 passengers. One car was reserved to carry a band which played tunes while the wheel was in rotation.
Undoubtedly one of the most exciting aspects of the fair was the use of electricity by Westinghouse.
This idealistic "city" however opulent was never intended to be permanent. The facades of the great structures were covered in a material resembling stucco painted white and the interiors were comparable to vast airplane hangers. In fact, only a handful of these impressive buildings remain today. Although most of the fairgrounds were destroyed by a fire, a few of the buildings were saved, restored, and relocated.
-The fairgrounds on fire
The history of the Chicago World's Fair is a truly fascinating story that mirrors issues that America still faces.
I'm absolutely MAD about this screen!
The most amazing chandelier.
The most charming lamp. This young dandy is just about as tall as I am (note: I'm short.). I've been eyeing this lad for over THREE YEARS!! (In a much less sexual sounding way.) Why hasn't someone taken him home yet?! 
Another perfect lamp -minus the shade. 
"S for Sportsman"..... I'm not sure what sport he's involved in, but then again I don't know much about sports. 
Just LOOK at those legs!!!
I'm nuts about cemeteries. On a recent trip I came across these lying about in the lawn...
Ann: "Aren't you starting a little bit early?"
The home, built in 1865 for the Cushing family as a Summer retreat, is as stoic as any respectable WASP. The structure is beautifully preserved, and still a vacation home for the Cushing family- lucky family. I searched for more interior photos of the house to no avail. If you haven't all ready seen it, rent it today. I know you'll love it!
Spring is just around the corner, and in every shop window. It's got me thinking of inspiration for my Spring wardrobe. I keep a folder on my desktop of all of my favorite men's fashion images, mostly courtesy ofThe Sartorialist. I've picked out some of my favorite Spring looks.
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