Historical Highlights from Chicago’s Past on June 22

Sports Milestones

On June 22, 1987, the Chicago Bulls significantly boosted their roster by acquiring forward Scottie Pippen from Central Arkansas. This move came through a trade with the Seattle SuperSonics in exchange for Olden Polynice. The Bulls also added Horace Grant from Clemson in the first round, marking a strategic enhancement for the team.

Remarkable Weather Records

The National Weather Service records some noteworthy statistics for June 22 in Chicago. The highest recorded temperature reached 97 degrees in 1988, while the lowest dipped to 40 degrees in 1875. Precipitation peaked at 1.55 inches in 2020, and trace amounts of snowfall were documented in 1928.

Political Convention History

Chicago became a focal point for political conventions, notably in 1912. President Taft’s renomination as the Republican candidate faced strong opposition from Theodore Roosevelt. Roosevelt’s breakaway led to the formation of the Progressive or Bull Moose Party, with both conventions held in Chicago. Ultimately, both candidates were defeated by Democrat Woodrow Wilson.

Boxing History

In 1937, Joe Louis became the heavyweight boxing champion by defeating James Braddock in a historic fight at Comiskey Park. The event attracted 41,675 attendees and was the first heavyweight title fight in Chicago in a decade.

Dairy Queen’s Origins

The first Dairy Queen store opened in Joliet on June 22, 1940, at 501 N. Chicago St. Sherwood ‘Sherb’ Noble kickstarted the venture. Noble began selling soft-serve ice cream, a creation of his friend J.F. McCullough, in 1938. Choosing the name Dairy Queen was a tribute to the cow, seen as ‘the queen of the dairy industry.’ Sherb Noble passed away in 1991. Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway later acquired Dairy Queen in 1997.

O’Hare Airport’s Evolution

In 1949, the Chicago City Council approved the transformation of Douglas Airport into O’Hare Field, while Northerly Island became Merrill C. Meigs Field, marking a shift in aviation infrastructure.

Basketball Trade Event

In 2016, the Chicago Bulls traded Derrick Rose to the New York Knicks. This decision marked a significant change in the team’s lineup.

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