Zachary Brodt, University archivist and records manager for the University of Pittsburgh Library System, will discuss “From the Steel City to the White City,” at an event Jan. 16 at Heinz Chapel.

Brodt will explore Western Pennsylvania’s representation at Chicago’s Columbian Exposition in 1893, including Western Pennsylvanian exhibits at the exposition, as well as the experiences of Pittsburghers visiting the fairgrounds. Brodt also will discuss how the Columbian Exposition influenced Pittsburgh’s development at the turn of the 20th century.

Brodt is author of the book “From the Steel City to the White City: Western Pennsylvania and the World’s Columbian Exposition,” and has previously published articles about the 1892 Homestead Steel Strike and Pitt’s hiring of Jonas Salk, among other topics. He is currently a council member of the Pennsylvania Historical Association.

The talk is from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Jan. 16. It is free for Pitt students, staff and faculty and $5 for the general public. Brodt's book will be available to purchase at the event.