In November 1893, the journalist Kate Field asked what should be done with the buildings of the World’s Columbian Exposition, the great majority of which were built as temporary structures. “Apply the torch and let it go down in a day,” was one reply. Field felt a twinge of sadness for the millions who hadn’t had the chance to see with their own eyes “the greatest achievement of the nineteenth century.”
Dress practically
Though costs decreased over the summer, it was still easy to blow a fortune at the Columbian Exposition itself. The Santa Fe Daily New Mexican reported one visitor’s deluxe day trip. Paying to be wheeled around the fairgrounds in rolling chairs and to navigate lagoon waters in gondolas, the traveler “bought catalogues and guidebooks, saw all the wonders of the Midway Pleasance [sic], had lunch and dinner at the swell cafes and brought innumerable souvenirs.” He shelled out $30 for the day—a total that when adjusted for inflation is about $855.
Chicago also had restaurants that served women exclusively. Rand McNally suggested Mrs. Clark Co. Lunch Room, “which, owing to the excellent quality of the food, the good service, and the reasonable rates, has become a favorite with Chicago women.”
If, somehow, you do find yourself at Engel’s Pavilion in 1893, you should pass on the advice given by the English-German Guide. No matter what year it is, always tip your servers. v
