Lykkers! Have you ever been on a Ferris wheel? Or do you prefer to enjoy them from the ground? Well, do you even know how it came to be?

It is all thanks to George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., who is widely remembered for his groundbreaking invention that forever changed the skyline of cities worldwide—the Ferris wheel.

Early Life and Education

George Ferris was born on February 14, 1859, in Galesburg, Illinois. At the age of five, he moved with his family to Nevada, where they lived for several years.

His academic journey began at the California Academy in Oakland, where he enrolled at the age of 16. Ferris later pursued higher education at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, a prestigious institution specializing in scientific and technological fields.

Career Beginnings in Engineering

During the 1880s, Ferris started his career in the rapidly growing railroad industry. He focused on bridge design, contributing to the development of key infrastructure during this transformative era. His expertise in structural engineering set the stage for his future innovations.

The Chicago World’s Fair and the Ferris Wheel Invention

In the early 1890s, Ferris arrived in Chicago to participate in a competition for the 1893 Columbian Exposition, also known as the Chicago World’s Fair.

The event was meant to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas. Organizers were looking for a monument that would surpass the height and grandeur of the Eiffel Tower, which had been constructed for the 1889 Exposition in Paris.

Ferris proposed the idea of a massive observation wheel, offering visitors a panoramic view of the entire fairgrounds. Initially, the concept raised doubts due to concerns about its safety. However, after gathering support from several respected engineers, the project gained approval. Ferris also secured funding from local investors, covering the estimated $400,000 cost of construction.

The Construction and Features of the Ferris Wheel

Construction of the Ferris wheel progressed rapidly, and it became the centerpiece of the World’s Fair.

The wheel had 36 cabins, each equipped with 40 rotating chairs to provide passengers with a full, unobstructed view of the surrounding area. The wheel’s total capacity was around 2,160 passengers. Standing 80.4 meters tall, it was smaller than the Eiffel Tower, but its massive scale and design were still an engineering marvel of the time.

The wheel was powered by a steam engine and took approximately 20 minutes to complete two full rotations. During the first rotation, six stops were made to allow passengers to board and exit the cabins safely.

Legacy of the Ferris Wheel

The Ferris wheel became the main attraction of the 1893 World’s Fair, drawing huge crowds throughout the summer and fall. After the fair ended, the wheel was dismantled and relocated to a suburban area of Chicago, where it remained until 1903. It was then transported by train to St. Louis for the 1904 World’s Fair, but was eventually dismantled for good two years later. The materials from the wheel were recycled.

The Chicago Ferris wheel is regarded as the world’s first Ferris wheel, and the term "Ferris wheel" became synonymous with any large observation wheel. Following its success, similar structures were built around the world, in major cities such as London, Paris, and Vienna. One of the most iconic wheels, the Riesenrad in Vienna, still stands today at 65 meters tall.

Modern-Day Ferris Wheels

Today, Ferris wheels have become an iconic feature in many cities worldwide. The Singapore Flyer, standing at 165 meters, holds the title of the tallest Ferris wheel, followed by the 160-meter wheel in Nanchang, China.

The London Eye, with its 135-meter height, offers breathtaking views of the British capital from its location along the River Thames. In Italy, the Eurowheel at Mirabilandia amusement park in Ravenna is the second tallest Ferris wheel in Europe.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy

George Ferris’ invention revolutionized the way people experience panoramic views in urban landscapes. From the Chicago World’s Fair to present-day amusement parks, his creation continues to be a symbol of human ingenuity and architectural brilliance. The Ferris wheel is not just an attraction; it is a testament to the power of vision and the enduring impact of innovation.