HOLDEN — The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair came to life at Holden Christian Academy on Jan. 19, a reenactment that involved the entire school community.
Students in grades K through eight have been studying the late 19th century in American history. The World’s Fair event gave them and school staff the opportunity to attend the fair as historical figures and visit the buildings they replicated from the White City.
“The event is a celebration of the learning that has taken place during term two,” Holden Christian Academy Principal Nikki Cleveland said. “The actual World’s Fair was an opportunity to see the latest developments in technology, food, entertainment, etc., and all the people responsible for those advances. Reenacting the event gave us the opportunity to experience and appreciate the excitement surrounding the introduction of so many things that are commonplace today.”
“This is our fifth time holding this particular event. Although this is the school’s 30th year, we have a four-year curriculum cycle, so this particular event is done every four years when we study American history from reconstruction to present day. Our founding principal, Mrs. Susan Hayward, came up with the event in 2008.”
The opening ceremony took place at 10 a.m., after which everyone wandered around the fair taking it all in. The program concluded in the afternoon with a brief show and a singalong at the fair midway.
“Everyone came dressed as an actual fairgoer and was able to answer questions about who they were in character,” Cleveland said, adding, “It was a great day.”
She went on to say that foods first seen at the 1893 fair were served — and that everyone involved enjoyed being a part of this now annual tradition at the school.
“Our reenactments are a lot of fun, but also a great way to celebrate and solidify the learning that has taken place all term,” Cleveland expressed. “The day was so much fun for both students and adults. The students got to share with one another what they learned about the time period in an engaging, authentic way, (which) is what I enjoyed most about the day, too. It was experiential learning at its finest.”
