Historical Events in Chicago on May 19
Explore significant events in Chicago from May 19, based on the Chicago Tribune’s historical archives. If you believe an important event is missing, you can email them.
Iconic Weddings and Visits
In 2018, Northwestern University graduate Meghan Markle married Prince Harry at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle in England.
Notable visits include Princess Diana’s Chicago trip in 1996.
Weather Highlights
The National Weather Service recorded the following data for May 19 in Chicago:
- High temperature: 94 degrees in 1977
- Low temperature: 36 degrees in 1993
- Precipitation: 1.53 inches in 1949
- Snowfall: None
Historical Fires and Racing Events
On May 19, 1934, a massive fire, the second-largest in Chicago history, destroyed Jim O’Leary’s gambling site and nearly 90% of the Union Stock Yards. The blaze injured 50 firefighters and killed hundreds of cattle.
In the realm of auto racing, Soldier Field hosted its first car race in 1935 by the Midwest Auto Racing Association. The venue’s inaugural NASCAR race, the Grand National, took place in 1956.
Corruption and Crime
In 1971, Alderman Fred Hubbard embezzled $100,000 from the Chicago Plan, a jobs program. He was caught and arrested in 1972 while playing poker in Los Angeles and pleaded guilty to 16 counts of embezzlement in 1973, receiving a two-year prison sentence.
Hubbard later used a fake name, Andrew Thomas, to work as a substitute teacher. In 1986, he faced accusations related to inappropriate behavior with a student, and his driver’s license was suspended in 1991.
Soldier Field Developments
In 1982, the Chicago Park District contemplated a $20 million dome project for Soldier Field. According to Park Board President Raymond Simon, enhancing the venue could result in significant financial gains if utilized frequently. The Tribune Editorial Board supported a domed arena since 1964 but opposed taxpayer funding, citing existing financial burdens.
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