What is the History of the Ferris Wheel?
The Ferris Wheel is one of the most common fairground rides in America and Europe. Evoking a sense of old-time nostalgia, this vintage fairground ride can be seen across the world at fairgrounds, parties, big events, and funfairs.
From giant Ferris wheels such as the London Eye to the classic fairground Ferris Wheel, the Ferris Wheel is a fantastic attraction for the masses, even today.
The Development of the Ferris Wheel
But the Ferris Wheel was not always like the modern ones we know today. In 1892, William Somers, a carpenter from America, built a range of 50-foot wooden wheels for Asbury Park, Atlantic City, and Coney Island. He called these 'roundabouts' and they are thought to be the first Ferris Wheel design, if not quite as technologically advanced as the ones we know and love today.
However, it was not until the following year that the original and true Ferris Wheel was invented. In 1893, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. created the first Ferris Wheel as a landmark for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago - so if you've ever wondered how the Ferris Wheel got its name, now you know! Ferris was a bridge-builder who had begun his career in the railroad industry. There was a lot of pressure to make the Chicago expo a fantastic event, and the corporate fun day was a great show of Chicago business, culture, and wealth.
Ferris' invention was very successful, and over the course of the exposition over 1.4 million people tried out this new phenomenon. The Exposition boosted the Chicago economy and saw America promote its technological prowess to the world.
Reaching a whopping 264ft, the original Ferris Wheel was unlike anything the American people had ever seen before, with one reporter writing that it was an "indescribable sensation" to be so far above the ground, revolving at such a speed.
Since then, the Ferris Wheel has been a firm favourite at American fairgrounds and big events across the country, and it is now the most common amusement ride at fairs in the US.
Evoking old-age glamour and summertime fun, this classic fairground ride has been seen in classic films such as "Grease" in 1978, and it even features in Joni Mitchell's song "Both Sides Now" where she sings about the mystical and dazzling allure of a summer Ferris wheel ride.
Hire Ferris Wheels UK
To find out more about how Ferris Wheels can add a bit of glamour to any fairground or funfair across the UK, please get in touch with us for more information or to arrange Ferris Wheel hire at your next big event. We have Ferris wheels for children as well as adults, and a vintage Ferris wheel that looks great at weddings and other classy occasions.
Whatever funfair, fairground or event hire services you're interested in, you can rest assured you'll receive an exceptional service when you make an order with We Are Tricycle! Visit our contact us page to see how to get in touch with us, or search through our website to get an idea of the scope of our business.
