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| THE BEAUTY SHOW - In 1892, Messrs. William M.
Knox and W. T. C. Hyde, two of the best-known reporters on the
Chicago daily press, laid before Mr. W. G. Press, a capitalist and
member of the Board of Trade, the plan for a Beauty Show on the
Plaisance. The fine title of "The International Dress and Costume
Exhibit" passed muster with the directors of the Exposition. The
best plot of ground on the Midway was obtained, and Mr. Hyde went to
Europe for his beauties. He returned with a bevy of about
twenty-five young women, all of whom were pretty, some beautiful, and
none capable of speaking English fluently, the latter condition being
especially desired by the management. A large chamber lighted from
the roof and surrounded with a platform was open in the centre to the
public, and on the platform the European contingent, recruited to the
required number of forty beauties, was ranged, one girl usually
representing a nation. In some cases it was desired to display rich
costumes from rival milliners, and in a conspicuous booth at the end
of the hall a Sultana was surrounded by her maids, and offered a
pleasing tableau. The place was crowded with visitors, and the best
of discipline was maintained. An orchestra was added, and Neapolitan
girls danced on the main floor at intervals. A male quartette sang,
and other entertainments were constantly going. The opening took
place May 10th, 1893. |
