Places

A Century of Progress

The 1933 World’s Fair in Chicago represented some of the world’s most revolutionary inventions and advancements, and Kohler made its presence known in a big way.

Sixty years of plumbing progress seen in exhibit.

The Chicago World’s Fair of 1933 and 1934, also known as A Century of Progress International Exposition, represented the latest marvels in technological and manufacturing innovation—and Kohler’s exhibit was a sight to behold. The “Kohler of Kohler” exhibition was an entire building dedicated to showcasing Kohler as a leader in modernization to the more than 48 million attendees from around the world. A 134-foot-long gallery featured its latest plumbing and power systems products while floor-to-ceiling images depicted Kohler projects around the world, as well as the factories and garden community of Kohler Village. Model bathrooms were on display, including a children’s bathroom, which at that time was a new idea in home design. Kohler also lent its plumbing and power resources to other major exhibitors like Ford and Goodyear.