This Week In Illinois History: Big Eli, The First Portable Ferris Wheel (May 23, 1900)

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…

Eli Ferris Wheel - Carnival History, Old Circus Photos, Sideshow History

The first Ferris wheel

Carnival Ride Archives - Eli Bridge Company W. E. Sullivan, owner of Eli Bridge Company, a bridge building business in Illinois, rode the original 1893 Chicago Ferris Wheel at the World's Columbian

Big Eli Wheel No. 17 Historical Marker

The First Giant Ferris Wheel Had Steep Highs And Lows

Ferris wheel - Wikipedia

Eli Bridge Company :: Jacksonville, IL :: Company History

History of the Ferris wheel; 1893 original was taller than Navy Pier's – Chicago Tribune

This Week In Illinois History: Big Eli, The First Portable Ferris Wheel (May 23, 1900)

Page 45 – DeKalb County Online

The First Giant Ferris Wheel Had Steep Highs And Lows

Early 1900s Eli Bridge Co. Big Eli Seat Ferris Wheel Seat

Ferris Wheel – Lagoon History Project