Tragic Flight 191 Crash
On May 25, 1979, an American Airlines DC-10 aircraft crashed moments after takeoff from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. This disaster resulted in the loss of 273 lives, making it the deadliest passenger airline accident on U.S. soil. The crash occurred as the plane impacted an open field approximately 4,600 feet from the runway.
Weather Records
- High temperature: 94°F in 1911
- Low temperature: 32°F in 1992
- Precipitation: 2.52 inches in 1879
- Snowfall: Trace in 1949
The Green Hornet Tragedy
In 1950, a Green Hornet streetcar collided with a fuel truck on State Street. The crash led to a fiery disaster, killing 34 people. The lack of emergency door releases on the streetcar was a significant factor in the tragedy. Subsequently, regulations now require emergency exits on Chicago Transit Authority vehicles.
Unabomber’s First Bomb
In 1978, Ted Kaczynski planted his first known bomb at the University of Illinois Chicago. A passerby mistook it as misdelivered mail and returned it to the listed sender. The recipient, suspicious, forwarded it to university security, where it injured a public safety officer upon opening.
‘Spider Dan’s’ Daredevil Stunt
In 1981, Dan Goodwin, known as ‘Spider Dan,’ scaled the Sears Tower using unconventional climbing tools. The event drew a crowd of at least 200 spectators. Goodwin faced legal consequences for his daring climb but continued to scale notable structures, including the John Hancock Center, later that year.
Fergie Jenkins’ Strikeout Milestone
On May 25, 1982, Fergie Jenkins of the Chicago Cubs joined an elite group by achieving his 3,000th career strikeout during a game against San Diego. Jenkins’ achievement places him among the celebrated pitchers in Major League Baseball history.
Oprah Winfrey’s Farewell
The final episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” aired in 2011, marking the end of an era for television filmed in Chicago. Oprah’s tenure in the city cemented her status as a cultural icon and media influencer.