20 Little-Known Facts About the Inventor of the Ferris Wheel

20 Little-Known Facts About the Inventor of the Ferris Wheel

George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. named similarly to the American President George Washington, is the visionary engineer behind the iconic Ferris Wheel.

Born in 1859, Ferris made history with his daring creation, debuting the Ferris Wheel at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

Fueled by innovation and a challenge to outshine the Eiffel Tower, Ferris designed the colossal wheel, which stands as a testament to American ingenuity.

His inventive spirit not only transformed the skyline but also left an enduring mark on amusement park culture globally.

Here are 20 little-known facts about the inventor of the Ferris Wheel:

1. He was Born in Galesburg

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George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. was born in 1859 in Galesburg, Illinois, and emerged as a pioneering force in engineering.

A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Ferris honed his skills and embarked on a remarkable journey, building railroad bridges across the expansive American West.

His engineering prowess, nurtured in the heart of the Midwest, laid the foundation for groundbreaking endeavors that extended far beyond the realm of railroads.

Ferris’s legacy, characterized by innovation and a bold spirit, would later reach its zenith with the creation of the iconic Ferris Wheel, forever altering the landscape of amusement and solidifying his place in history.

2. Ferris Used His Wheel Design to Outdo the Centerpiece Tower of Paris

The American Inventor, armed with an engineering background, conceived a monumental vision to surpass the Eiffel Tower’s splendor.

At the 1889 Paris Exposition, Ferris unveiled his revolutionary wheel design, a colossal marvel that outshone the iconic centerpiece tower.

His audacious creation, now known as the Ferris Wheel, not only bested the Eiffel Tower but also became a symbol of American ingenuity.

Ferris’s legacy, born from a challenge, forever transformed the skyline and the realm of amusement, leaving an indelible mark on the world’s collective imagination.

3. His Original Wheel Design was to Have 100 Cars and be 800 Feet Tall

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George’s ambitious original Ferris wheel design called for a stunning, record-breaking wheel standing 800 feet tall and carrying 100 cars to view the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair from the highest vantage point.

However, securing adequate funding for such a massive structure proved impossible, so budget realities forced the final wheel specifications to be much lower, to a still impressive 80 feet tall but with only 36 cars.

Though it lacked the grandeur of his initial vision, the actual finished wheel nonetheless delighted fairgoers and helped cement George Ferris’s place in history for inventing the iconic amusement park ride.

4. He Tested Scale Models of His Wheel Design in the Backyard of his Pittsburgh Home

In pursuit of engineering perfection, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. faced structural challenges for his groundbreaking Ferris Wheel design. Ferris took to the backyard of his Pittsburgh home.

There, he meticulously tested scale models, experimenting with form and function. This hands-on approach showcased Ferris’s dedication and ingenuity, allowing him to fine-tune the structural intricacies that would later define his colossal creation.

The backyard experiments became a crucible of invention, marking a pivotal phase in the development of the iconic Ferris Wheel, a testament to Ferris’s relentless pursuit of engineering excellence.

5. The First-Ever Ferris Wheel was Erected on Chicago’s Lakefront

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In a historic moment during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, the inaugural Ferris Wheel rose along the city’s lakefront.

Innovated by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., this monumental structure debuted as the world’s first Ferris wheel.

A marvel of engineering, it stood as the centerpiece of the exposition, captivating visitors with its towering presence and innovative design.

This groundbreaking event not only marked the birth of an iconic amusement ride but also solidified Ferris’s legacy, forever altering the skyline and ushering in a new era of entertainment that would captivate generations to come.

6. Ferris was Determined

George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., driven by an audacious vision, sought to create something “original, daring, and unique.”

He envisioned a structure that would be more efficient than France’s  Eiffel Tower in terms of space and cost. Ferris’s determination led to the birth of the iconic Ferris Wheel, a testament to his engineering ingenuity.

This colossal creation not only fulfilled his ambitious goals but also forever changed the landscape of amusement, standing as a symbol of innovation and a tribute to Ferris’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what was deemed possible.

7. The Massive Project was Completed in Just 4 Months During the Brutal Chicago Winter

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Against the backdrop of the harsh Chicago winter of 1892–93, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. orchestrated a remarkable feat.

The completion of the massive Ferris Wheel project in a mere four months.

Ferris’s ambitious vision materialized into an engineering marvel, defying weather challenges and tight timelines.

This swift construction not only showcased Ferris’s tenacity but also underscored his ability to transform conceptual brilliance into reality.

The Ferris Wheel, standing tall amidst winter’s adversity, became a testament to human resilience and ingenuity, forever etching its place in history as a symbol of rapid, groundbreaking achievement.

8. His Wheel Took 20 Minutes to Make Two Full Revolutions and Carried over 38,000 Passengers Daily

George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.’s visionary Ferris Wheel, born in the winter of 1892–93, enchanted visitors with a leisurely 20-minute journey, completing two full revolutions.

Ferris’s creation wasn’t just a marvel of engineering; it became a spectacle, carrying over 38,000 passengers daily during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

This monumental accomplishment not only transformed the skyline but also provided an immersive experience for those who dared to embark on its towering journey, solidifying Ferris’s place in history as an architect of joy and amusement and a pioneer in the art of entertainment.

9. Tickets Were Expensive for 1893, But The Public Loved the Dazzling New Diversion with Gorgeous Views

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In 1893, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.’s Ferris Wheel offered a spectacular diversion at the World’s Columbian Exposition, with tickets priced at 50 cents—a considerable sum for the era.

Ferris designed an experience that, despite the cost, captivated the public with its dazzling allure and breathtaking views.

This unprecedented attraction not only showcased Ferris’s engineering prowess but also became a cultural phenomenon, earning the admiration of thousands willing to pay a premium for the enchanting journey into the skies above Chicago.

The Ferris Wheel’s popularity testified to its enduring appeal as a symbol of joy and innovation.

10. The 1893 Chicago Ferris wheel was later moved to St. Louis for 1904 World’s Fair

The 1893 Chicago Ferris Wheel, conceived by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., underwent a captivating journey, relocating to St. Louis for the 1904 World’s Fair.

Ferris’s creation continued to enchant crowds before meeting an unexpected fate. In 1906, a dynamite crew dismantled the once-majestic Ferris Wheel, bringing an end to its towering legacy.

Despite its eventual demise, Ferris’s innovative marvel left an indelible mark on the history of amusement and engineering, reminding the world of a bygone era when the sky was no limit for human imagination and ingenuity.

11. Ferris Took Home Over $400,000 in Profits

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George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.’s financial journey mirrored the highs and lows of his iconic creation. Ferris earned substantial profits, over $400,000, from his Ferris Wheel at the 1893 Chicago World’s Columbian Exposition.

However, his legal battle for a fair share of revenues from the fair organizers proved financially ruinous. Despite his innovative success, Ferris faced bankruptcy.

This unfortunate twist in his story showcases the complexities and challenges faced by even the most visionary individuals, emphasizing the often unpredictable intersections of creativity, business, and legal complexities in the pursuit of groundbreaking endeavors.

12. He Was Diagnosed With Typhoid Fever at 37

Tragically, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.’s life took a somber turn in November 1896.

Diagnosed with typhoid fever at the tender age of 37, Ferris faced a sudden and severe health crisis.

The visionary engineer behind the Ferris Wheel entered the hospital and, within weeks, succumbed to the relentless grip of the illness.

Ferris’s untimely death marked the end of a brilliant career that had reshaped the skyline and redefined amusement.

His legacy, however, endured in the towering structures and joyous memories created by his iconic invention, forever etching his name in the annals of engineering history.

13. He Was Honored by Having A Silver Half-Dollar Showcasing A Ferris Wheel

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George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., the visionary behind the Ferris Wheel, received a posthumous tribute in the form of a commemorative silver half-dollar coin minted in 1936–37.

Ferris’s innovative wheel design adorned this special coin, showcasing the enduring legacy of his iconic creation.

This numismatic homage celebrated Ferris’s contribution to engineering and amusement, ensuring that his name and the symbol of joy he introduced to the world would forever be immortalized in the currency of remembrance and recognition.

The coin stands as a tangible acknowledgment of Ferris’s indelible mark on the history of innovation and entertainment.

14. He married Margaret Ann Beatty in 1883 and Had Two Daughters

In 1883, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. embarked on a personal journey by marrying Margaret Ann Beatty.

The union resulted in two daughters, encapsulating a dimension of Ferris’s life beyond his groundbreaking engineering achievements.

He was described by many relatives as charming and possessing a great sense of humor. Ferris’s personal demeanor complemented his professional brilliance.

Despite the challenges faced in his pursuits, his familial bonds reveal a more intimate facet of the visionary behind the Ferris Wheel.

The laughter and warmth shared within his family circle added a human touch to the legacy of an extraordinary man.

15. George Excelled in School

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At a young age, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. exhibited exceptional prowess.

An academic prodigy, he excelled in school, showcasing his intellect by reading before the age of 5.

Gifted not only academically but also in the realms of music and mechanics, Ferris’s youthful brilliance set the stage for a remarkable future.

This multifaceted talent, evident early in life, provided a foundation for his later achievements in engineering and innovation, ultimately culminating in the creation of the iconic Ferris Wheel and solidifying his place as a visionary in both the academic and engineering spheres.

16. He Has A Daredevil Side

George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. exhibited a daring spirit from an early age.

Revealing his adventurous side, he engaged in a bold experiment, attempting to create hot air balloons by employing tar barrels over fire.

This audacious endeavor, however, took a perilous turn when Ferris accidentally blew himself up.

This early episode, though fraught with danger, hinted at the fearless and inventive nature that would later define his pursuits in engineering and amusement.

Ferris’s childhood escapades foreshadowed the boldness that would lead him to create the groundbreaking Ferris Wheel.

17. Ferris’ Original Wheel Design did Not have The Hanging Baskets for Cars Used Today

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In George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.’s original design for the Ferris Wheel, a departure from contemporary models emerged.

Ferris envisioned a structure with upright railway carriages featuring revolving chairs, deviating from the hanging baskets commonly used today.

This distinctive design choice showcased Ferris’s innovative thinking, adding a unique touch to the wheel’s passenger experience.

Although the design evolved over time, with hanging baskets becoming the norm, Ferris’s initial vision highlighted his commitment to creating an exceptional and memorable ride, setting the stage for the awe-inspiring amusement that the Ferris Wheel would eventually become.

18. His Firm, G.W.G. Ferris & Co., also Inspected Metals for Railroads and Iron Industries

Founded in Pittsburgh, where George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. attended university, his firm, G.W.G. Ferris & Co., played a crucial role beyond amusement.

Established to inspect metals, particularly for railroads and the iron industry, the company became a trusted entity, ensuring the quality and integrity of metals used in vital infrastructure.

Ferris’s venture into metallurgical inspections showcased not only his engineering expertise but also his commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and quality across industries, leaving a lasting impact beyond the realm of entertainment.

19. He Witnessed Chicago’s Great Fire

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George Washington Gale witnessed the catastrophic Chicago Fire of 1871. He carried the indelible memory of the city’s devastation.

This pivotal event likely fueled his determination to construct something monumental that could uplift Chicago.

Driven by a desire to contribute to the city’s resurgence, Ferris’s vision transcended the ordinary. The Ferris Wheel, born from this ambition, not only redefined the skyline but also symbolized resilience and hope.

Ferris’s response to tragedy became a testament to his commitment to rebuilding and bringing joy, leaving an enduring mark on Chicago’s spirit and the world of entertainment.

20. A Replica of Ferris’ Original 1893 Chicago Wheel Still Stands Today

A tribute to George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.’s enduring legacy, a replica of his original 1893 Chicago Ferris Wheel stands proudly today at the Navy Pier amusement park on Lake Michigan.

Ferris’s visionary creation has been immortalized in this recreation, allowing visitors to experience the marvel that once graced the city’s skyline during the World’s Columbian Exposition.

This enduring symbol not only commemorates Ferris’s innovative spirit but also offers a timeless connection to the past, inviting generations to relish the joy and wonder that the Ferris Wheel has been bringing to audiences for over a century.