(Chicago Tribune archive) 1893: Visitors to the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago got to ride the debut of the first Ferris wheel, which was designed by George W. Ferris.

CHICAGO (AP) — Navy Pier plans to debut a bigger and more luxurious 196-foot Ferris wheel when the Chicago tourist attraction celebrates its 100th anniversary next summer.

It was erected in honor of George Ferris, who graduated from RPI in 1881. He designed and built the first Ferris wheel for the 1893 World Fair in Chicago.