From the Steel City to the White City

In this brand-new book, Zachary Brodt explores Western Pennsylvania’s representation at the famed 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago, the first major step in demonstrating that Pittsburgh was more than simply America’s crucible—it was also a region of developing culture and innovation.

The Chicago fairgrounds provided a lucrative opportunity for area companies not only to provide construction materials but to display the region’s many products. While Pittsburgh’s most famous contributions to the 1893 World’s Fair—alternating current electricity and the Ferris wheel—had a lasting impact on the United States and the world, other exhibits provided a snapshot of the area’s industries, natural resources, and inventions. The success of these exhibits launched local companies into the twentieth century, ensuring a steady flow of work, money, and prestige!

Refreshments will be served.

Copies of the book will be available for sale by University of Pittsburgh Press.

Bio: Zachary L. Brodt is the university archivist and records manager at the University of Pittsburgh Library System. He is currently a member of the Pennsylvania Historical Association, Mid-Atlantic Regional Archives Conference, and Society of American Archivists.