Heinrich W. Rincker’s Historic Farmhouse Demolished
On August 25, 1980, a significant event unfolded in Chicago as Heinrich (Henry) W. Rincker’s 129-year-old farmhouse was demolished. Despite its landmark status, the property at the intersection of Devon, Milwaukee, and Nagle avenues was taken down by the Cirro Wrecking Co. The confusion stemmed from an address change, though no official demolition record was authorized. Rincker, a German immigrant, was known for casting the bell for Cook County’s first courthouse, later destroyed by the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
Firefighters had saved Rincker’s residence earlier that year from a suspected arson. Despite severe damage to its attic and roof, the Commission on Chicago Landmarks aimed to preserve its landmark status. The building’s owner, Anthony Roppolo, opposed landmark designation, planning to use the site for a shopping center. Resident and council member opposition delayed the development.
Architecture critic Paul Gapp identified three preservation challenges: insufficient tools to detect wrongdoing, mild penalties for deliberate landmark destruction, and potential for covert demolitions. Today, a plaque marks the site at 6312 N. Nagle Ave., where a grocery store now stands.
Legendary MLB Game at Wrigley Field
In a historic matchup on August 25, 1922, the Chicago Cubs triumphed over the Philadelphia Phillies with a 26-23 score. This memorable game at Wrigley Field holds the record for the highest-scoring game in Major League Baseball history. The Cubs managed 26 runs in only four innings. Remarkably, in 1979, both teams scored over 20 runs in another game at Wrigley Field.
Arlington Park’s Resilient Comeback
Despite a devastating fire less than a month prior, more than 35,000 fans gathered on August 25, 1985, for the Arlington Million at Arlington Park. Temporary tents and bleachers hosted attendees as Great Britain’s Teleprompter narrowly defeated Greinton. The Arlington team received an Eclipse Award for their resilience following the fire, a first for a racetrack.
Kyle Rittenhouse Incident During Kenosha Protests
On August 25, 2020, Chicago-native Kyle Rittenhouse, aged 17, was involved in a tragic incident during protests in Kenosha following the police shooting of Jacob Blake. Rittenhouse used an AR-15-style rifle, resulting in two fatalities and one injury. Claiming self-defense, Rittenhouse faced charges but was later acquitted by a jury on November 19, 2021, who accepted his self-defense argument.
Lucas Giolito’s No-Hitter for the Chicago White Sox
In an impressive baseball moment on August 25, 2020, Lucas Giolito of the Chicago White Sox pitched a no-hitter against the Pittsburgh Pirates. During the game’s 4-0 victory, Giolito struck out 13 and allowed only one walk over 101 pitches. This marked the 19th no-hitter in the franchise’s history, emphasizing the White Sox’s legacy in pitching prowess.
The Chicago White Sox have recorded 20 no-hitters since 1902, including three perfect games, leading the American League in this achievement.