Chicago's Worlds Fair A Century of Progress

Blue rectangle with blue and white text on it on a white background

Cardinell Century, the official photographers of the 1933 Chicago World's Fair, put out postcards and souvenirs during the fair, including this button. This button features the official emblem of a Century of Progress. Its depiction of a planet and its rings moving through space was used in fair posters and memorabilia to represent futurism. Additionally, the emblem mimics the streamlined designs of the fair's many buildings.

The 1933 Chicago World's Fair, known officially as a Century of Progress International Exposition, opened on June 1, 1933 and closed on November 1 the following year. In addition to exhibits showcasing technological innovations, such as the latest advancements in rail travel, automobiles, and architecture, the 1933 Chicago World's Fair celebrated the city's centennial. The fairgrounds of a Century of Progress bordered 37th Street on the South and Roosevelt Road on the North, and occupied much of Northerly Island. Some of the exhibits that were featured at the fair included performances by fan dancer Sally Rand, the German airship Graf Zeppelin, new American luxury cars, and the Homes of Tomorrow Exhibition.