Lighting the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair: An Illuminating Look Behind the Scenes.

Presented by Douglas J. Dahlberg PE, BSCE, MBA

Who provided the electricity for 93,000 light bulbs and how were they powered to illuminate the “White City?” The AC vs. DC competition and conflict is revealed and the local company, incorporated in 1891 that packaged the generators, wiring, transformers, and lights, is still in business today in Chicago.


Mr. Dahlberg endured a 42 year engineering career, recently retiring from Sargent & Lundy LLC, after nearly 20 years of service to the company that helped light the Colombian Exposition 126 years ago. No stranger to presentations, he has provided over 50 technical, informational, and laughable programs at conventions throughout the U.S. (and Canada). Irreparably exposed to Steampunk 10 years ago, he has attended some 24 related events. After 63 years, Mr. Dahlberg has figured out who he wants to be and he says “not me.” With an ever changing persona, you never know who he’ll be this time.

 

Chicago Steampunk Exposition