The Glessner House in Chicago will host an online program “Revolution in the White City: How the Fourth of July was Celebrated at the 1893 World’s Fair” on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 7 pm CDT. The presentation will be given by Scott Cummings, an independent researcher who publishes worldsfairchicago1893.com.

Independence Day at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago was remembered as “the greatest Fourth of July celebration in the nation’s history.” A record crowd filled Jackson Park to hear patriotic speeches and music, honor two Liberty Bells, see the Declaration of Independence, and watch a parade of nations march down the Midway Plaisance. At night, the Ferris Wheel was set on fire and an astounding fireworks show decorated the skies above the White City.

Join the presentation live at 7 pm CDT (via Zoom) or watch a recording available for seven days following the program. Registration is $16 per person ($13 for Glessner House members).