In "The Devil in the White City," Erik Larson explores the fascinating and dark history surrounding the World's Fair in Chicago during the late 19th century. One intriguing aspect he uncovers is the unusual tradition of a certain club that would silently abduct visiting celebrities. Members would don robes and whisk these individuals away in a mysterious black coach, ensuring their actions remained shrouded in secrecy.

This peculiar practice highlights the eccentricity and allure of the era, revealing both the glamorous and sinister sides of the societal elite. Through this vivid storytelling, Larson paints a picture of a time when spectacle and intrigue intertwined, making the fair a memorable yet haunting chapter in American history.