The historic Second Presbyterian Church in Chicago will celebrate the legacy of the 1893 World’s Fair with an event on October 28, 2018. The date marks the 125th anniversary of the assassination of five-time Chicago mayor Carter H. Harrison, Sr. just days before the scheduled end of the World’s Columbian Exposition. The tragic event sent the city into mourning and the closing ceremonies were replaced by a public memorial service.

“The World’s Columbian Exposition in Music and Story” will feature musical selections related to the Fair, performed on organ by music director Michael Shawgo, with commentary to provide stories about the Fair, its impact on Chicago and the world, and how Chicagoans honored their fallen mayor.

Doors will open at 2:00 pm for docent-led tours of the National Historic Landmark sanctuary. The program begins at 3 pm. A reception will feature selected food items introduced at the Fair, including brownies which were developed at the request of Bertha Palmer. A small exhibit of Fair memorabilia will be on display.

This event is co-sponsored by Glessner House Museum and Friends of Historic Second Church. Tickets are $25 ($20 for members) and available here. Second Presbyterian is located at 1936 South Michigan Avenue in Chicago.

Carter Harrison, Sr., mayor of Chicago during the World’s Columbian Exposition, was shot and killed on October 28, 1893.