EPISODE · May 25, 2026 · 1 MIN
This Week In Illinois History: Big Eli, The First Portable Ferris Wheel (May 23, 1900)
from This Week in Illinois History · host Clint Cargile
On May 23, 1900, the world's first portable Ferris wheel, known as "Big Eli," made its debut. Its inventor, William Sullivan, launched an amusement ride business that still thrives today.
What this episode covers
On May 23, 1900, the world's first portable Ferris wheel, known as "Big Eli," made its debut. Its inventor, William Sullivan, launched an amusement ride business that still thrives today.
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This Week In Illinois History: Big Eli, The First Portable Ferris Wheel (May 23, 1900)
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