Paris Had a Moving Sidewalk in 1900, and a Thomas Edison Film Captured It

6 months ago

Moving walkways, now common in places like airports, were once a marvel, especially at the Paris Exposition of 1900.
Thomas Edison sent a producer to film the Paris Exposition, capturing footage of the moving sidewalk, including playful interactions with the technology.
The Paris Exposition's moving sidewalk featured three platforms at different speeds, offering both efficiency and entertainment to visitors.
The concept of moving walkways predates Paris, with an earlier version at Chicago's 1893 Columbian Exposition, though it was less reliable.
Early moving walkways, while seen as novelties, hold potential for future public transit, combining utility with enjoyment.
The Paris Exposition's moving sidewalk was described as an 'endless floor,' a technological spectacle that left a lasting impression.

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