CHICAGO (WGN) - It was a celebration fit for a Chicago icon with a nod to the amusement millions of visitors to Navy Pier find each year.

Navy Pier's Signature Gala honored former Mayor Richard M. Daley and the six-term mayor's pivotal role in making Navy Pier what it is today.

"He was determined, as we all know, Mayor Daley's tenacity, grit and determination led to great things," President and CEO of Navy Pier Marilynn Gardner said.

Navy Pier first opened to the public in 1916 for shipping and recreation. It also served the military in both World Wars before serving the University of Illinois.

However, it wasn't long before Navy Pier fell into disuse.

"It was abandoned, basically warehouses that were old sheds and it was on the lakefront, which was the greatest asset in the history o

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