Superman Day: when a comic superhero came to life

The New York World’s Fair, which celebrated the 150th anniversary of George Washington’s presidential inauguration, was a momentous occasion for New Yorkers and for the world, attracting some 45 million visitors over its two seasons in 1939 and 1940. The Expo was also a remarkable event for fans of superheroes, as it staged the first ever appearance of Superman. Previously confined to comic books and radio shows, it was on 3 July 1940 that visitors could come to the Expo and for the very first time see the superhero in the flesh.

On this day, known as Superman Day, the cost of a children’s ticket to the Expo was reduced from 50 cents to 5 cents, encouraging visitors to attend. The event was the brainchild of publicist Allen ‘Duke’ Ducovny, with the aim of attracting more visitors to the Expo and boosting sales of the 100-page special edition of DC’s New York World’s Fair Comics, which was only on sale on the Expo site.

Various activities were organised to keep visitors entertained throughout Superman Day, including elephant rides, a 50-yard dash and a 50-yard obstacle race for boys, and a 25-yard dash and skipping competition for girls. To top it off, a competition was organised to select the ‘Super-Boy’ and ‘Super-Girl’ among children aged between 8 and 14. At midday, Superman led a parade through the Expo, on a float with a pedestal.

Some debate remains over the actor who portrayed Superman at this first public appearance. Actor and singer Ray Middleton is often credited with the role, but others have claimed that the true identity of the actor remains a mystery.

In line with the Expo’s initial theme ‘Building the World of Tomorrow with the Tools of Today’, Superman Day was the perfect occasion to showcase ‘the Man of Tomorrow’ to the public. Superman, who first appeared in Action Comics in June 1938, was easily distinguishable with his blue costume featuring a red and yellow ‘S’ emblem on the chest, as well as the iconic red cape.

At a time of international conflict and tragedy, Superman was more than just a comic book character, he also gave hope to adults and children alike. The ‘S’ on the superhero’s chest also symbolised ‘Saving Lives’, ‘Stopping Crime’ and giving ‘Super Aid’ to those in need. This hope chimed with the updated theme of the second season of the Expo, ‘For Peace and Freedom’, reflecting the onset of the Second World War.