Cubs 365, May 1

On this day in 1893, the Columbian Exposition opened in Chicago. It was the biggest World's Fair the world had ever seen, scheduled to begin on the 400th anniversary of Columbus' discovery of the new world.

It covered 600 acres, featured 200 or so brand new structures and buildings (many designed by Daniel Burnham), and attracted more than 27 million spectators to the city. It was located in Jackson Park and the Midway Plaisance, in the neighborhoods of Jackson Park Highlands, South Shore, Hyde Park and Woodlawn. This was more than a World's Fair. It was Chicago's coming out party--it's chance to prove to the world that it had recovered and thrived after the disastrous Chicago Fire of 1871.

Dedication ceremonies for the fair were held on October 21, 1892, but the fairgrounds were not actually opened to the public until May 1, 1893. President Grover Cleveland was on hand that day. The fair continued until October 30, 1893.

The big draw was the world debut of the Ferris Wheel, but there were many other notable moments of the fair. Scott Joplin performed there, and introduced Ragtime music to a wider audience. A dancer named Little Egypt introduced the Middle Eastern culture to many Americans for the very first time.

Several foods that have become American icons were also introduced there: Hamburgers, Quaker Oats, Cream of Wheat, Shredded Wheat, Aunt Jemima pancake mix, Juicy Fruit gum, and a food that would soon become associated with baseball forever--Cracker Jacks.

And yes, a certain baseball team was already playing in Chicago at the time.

1893 was the Chicago Colts (which is what they were known as in 1893) first season at West Side Grounds (photo), the ballpark that would be their home for both of their World Series triumphs (1907, 1908). It was built slightly west and north of the Columbian Exposition in a year which must have set records for construction in Chicago.

The Colts only played their Sunday games at the new ballpark however, because South Side Park (their home from 1891-1893) was closer to the Columbian Exposition and they hoped to draw fans from there.

It was a pretty uneventful season for the Colts, aside for a few moments. On August 8th the team was involved in a train crash between Cleveland and Louisville. Jimmy Ryan was cut badly in his face and neck, and a piece of glass had to be removed from his leg. He missed the rest of the season.

Cap Anson (41 years old) made history by becoming the first pinch hitter in team history. He pinch hit in the tenth inning and got a single as the Cubs won in extra innings.

As the Exposition ended in October of 1893, so did the season for the Chicago Colts.

They finished in 9th place in a 12 team league.