1895: The Fire at H.H. Holmes’ ‘Murder Castle’

On August 19, 1895, a significant fire nearly destroyed the notorious ‘Murder Castle’ owned by serial killer H.H. Holmes, located at 610 W. 63rd St. Originally, a drugstore occupied the ground floor, and living quarters were above. A third story was later added. The building included secret rooms and a soundproof vault. Experts suggest these were more likely used to hide stolen goods rather than for murder.

Weather Records

August 19 has seen varied weather in Chicago. The highest temperature recorded was 99 degrees in 1983. The lowest was 51 degrees in 1992. The most precipitation occurred in 1921, with a total of 2.07 inches. Snowfall has never been recorded on this date.

1886: Aftermath of the Haymarket Affair

In the wake of the Haymarket Affair on May 4, 1886, eight radicals were convicted on August 19. A bomb thrown during the labor rally led to the deaths of eight police officers and at least four civilians. Of those convicted, four were hanged, one committed suicide, and two had their death sentences commuted. One was sentenced to prison. Illinois Gov. John Altgeld later pardoned the three surviving defendants, believing in their innocence. Chicago commemorates these events with a memorial on Desplaines Street.

1969: Ken Holtzman’s No-Hitter for the Cubs

Ken Holtzman achieved a no-hit game against the Atlanta Braves at Wrigley Field on August 19, 1969. Remarkably, he did not strike out any players. Hank Aaron hit a fly ball that cleared the wall but was caught by Billy Williams due to a gust of wind. This game was the first no-hitter for the Cubs in nine years. Holtzman threw a second no-hitter in 1971 against the Cincinnati Reds.

1975: Monarch Butterfly Becomes Illinois’ State Insect

Governor Dan Walker signed a bill on August 19, 1975, making the monarch butterfly the official state insect of Illinois. This legislation was initiated by third graders from Dennis School in Decatur. Their efforts led to the recognition of the first official state insect.

2024: Democratic National Convention in Chicago

On August 19, 2024, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson opened the Democratic National Convention with a short, energetic speech. Johnson praised Chicago’s history and its famous figures, such as Ida B. Wells and Barack Obama. The convention aimed to celebrate President Joe Biden and nominate Kamala Harris for the presidential role.