Sports Flashback: 1959

On September 22, 1959, the Chicago White Sox claimed the American League championship title. Manager Al Lopez achieved a milestone as he guided the team to victory, the first since Kid Gleason’s infamously known 1919 team. This historic win occurred in Cleveland against a team they dominated all season, boasting 15 wins over them. The ‘Go-Go’ White Sox achieved this amidst high tension with the bases loaded against them, risking a two-run lead loss. Al Lopez brought Gerry Staley into play, and Edward Prell reported, ‘Staley pitched one ball—a sinker low and outside. Vic Power swung, resulting in Luis Aparicio effortlessly capturing the ball and making a decisive play to ensure victory.’

Historic Labor Strike: 1910

Back in 1910, September observed the labor strike by women at the Hart, Schaffner & Marx clothing manufacturer. Seventeen women initiated the strike, enraged by a pay cut for assembling garments. Their determination attracted around 40,000 workers, rallying behind Bessie Abramowitz. Their representation in negotiations came from Clarence Darrow, as they stood strong for four months, returning with hopes of a deal.

Legendary Boxing Match: 1927

On September 22, 1927, the ‘Long Count’ fight between Gene Tunney and Jack Dempsey unfolded at Soldier Field. This heavyweight bout garnered immense attention, drawing around 105,000 fans and $3 million in ticket sales. In the seventh round, Dempsey knocked Tunney down, yet a delayed corner retreat gave Tunney extra seconds to recover, rising at the ‘nine’ count before securing a unanimous victory.

Black Monday Protest: 1969

September 22, 1969, marked Jesse Jackson’s leading hand in the ‘Black Monday’ protest in Daley Plaza, Chicago. Around 3,000 people marched against discriminatory union hiring practices, making a significant statement and adding prominence to civil rights movements.

Firemen Tragedy: 1981

1981 in Chicago faced tragedy on September 22 with the loss of firefighters Joseph Hitz and Craig McShane in Willoughby Tower. Battling an inferno led to the elevator cables snapping, resulting in a deadly fall of over 15 floors. The engulfed elevator left no escape, underscoring the dangers first responders face.

Farm Aid Concert: 1985

September 22, 1985, introduced the first Farm Aid concert, held at Memorial Stadium, University of Illinois. Inspired by Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson orchestrated the event to aid American farmers. This significant concert entertained around 78,000 rain-drenched attendees and a national audience, maintaining spirited enthusiasm throughout 14 hours of performances.

Weather Record: 1995

The earliest autumn freeze was recorded on September 22, 1995, at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. It marked an abnormal event for the city’s official recording site.