Historical Events in Chicago on May 20
Events on May 20 in Chicago’s history highlight diverse moments that have shaped the city. Each event carries its own significance, impacting both local and broader communities in various ways.
1987: Guilty Plea in Prostitution Ring
On May 20, 1987, Doris Fischer, along with her two daughters and son-in-law, admitted guilt in operating a prostitution ring. This operation, out of their Buffalo Grove residence, was part of a larger investigation named “Operation Safebet,” conducted by the FBI and IRS.
Historical Weather Records
- High temperature: 95°F in 1977
- Low temperature: 33°F in 2002
- Precipitation: 2.54 inches in 1975
- Snowfall: None recorded
1883: Sinking of the Wells Burt
The wreck of the Wells Burt, a three-masted schooner, occurred as it carried coal from Buffalo to Chicago. Caught in a Lake Michigan storm, the ship sank, leading to the loss of its captain and ten crew members. The wreck lies about three miles off Evanston in shallow waters and remains a diving site today.
1943: Bomber Crash
A B-24 bomber from the U.S. Army Air Corps crashed into a gas storage tank near what is now Midway Airport. The incident resulted in the deaths of all 12 individuals on board. Notable for the intense explosion, the impact was felt a mile away, showcasing the severity of the accident.
1970: Imaging Single Atoms
University of Chicago physicist Albert Crewe announced a breakthrough by capturing images of individual atoms. His work with a bespoke microscope enabled scientists to observe atoms within molecules, marking a significant moment in scientific research.
1988: School Shooting
Laurie Dann attacked Hubbard Woods Elementary in Winnetka, shooting six children and killing 8-year-old Nicholas Corwin. Dann’s rampage ended with her death, marking a tragic moment in school safety history.
1992: Ban on Spray Paint Sales
Faced with growing graffiti, local aldermen initiated a ban on spray paint sales, describing cans as “weapons of terror.” The law aimed to reduce vandalism, though Ald. Dorothy Tillman argued that larger social issues should take precedence.
1994: Last Game at Chicago Stadium
The Chicago Bulls’ 93-79 win over the New York Knicks marked the last game played at Chicago Stadium. Despite winning Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, they lost the series away from home in Game 7.
2006: Crosstown Classic Brawl
A collision during a game at U.S. Cellular Field led to a fight between Cubs catcher Michael Barrett and White Sox runner A.J. Pierzynski. The altercation resulted in ejections and fines, adding tension to the fierce rivalry.
2012: NATO Summit Protests
With President Barack Obama moving the G-8 Summit, the NATO summit proceeded in Chicago, drawing thousands of protesters. The event highlighted political tensions and the city’s ability to host global gatherings.
2017: Postponed Cubs Game
An anticipated game between the Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers was postponed due to weather concerns. Without rain materializing, Brewers GM David Stearns questioned the Cubs’ intentions behind the decision.
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