Reflecting on Significant Chicago Events on May 21
May 21 Historical Events in Chicago
On May 21, several pivotal moments in history have been recorded in Chicago, as chronicled by the Tribune’s archives. Here, we revisit some of these noteworthy occurrences.
Amelia Earhart’s Trans-Atlantic Flight
In 1932, Amelia Earhart achieved a historic solo flight from New Jersey to Northern Ireland, lasting 14 hours and 54 minutes. This feat made her the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic, covering a distance of 2,026½ miles. Although Earhart remarked that she flew “just for fun,” her achievement earned her significant recognition.
Upon arriving in Chicago a month later, Earhart was honored with a medal during an event marking George Washington’s bicentennial. Despite being recently married, Earhart insisted on retaining her professional identity with her well-known surname.
Historical Weather Data
Weather records for the Chicago area depict variabilities. The highest temperature recorded on May 21 was 92 degrees in 1977, while the lowest was 31 degrees in 2002. A substantial precipitation of 1.96 inches occurred in 2018, and snowfall was recorded as a trace in 1969.
Lake Michigan’s Maritime Mysteries
The Thomas Hume schooner’s disappearance in 1891 remains an enigma. Departing from Chicago, it vanished while en route to Muskegon, Michigan. It was last seen 22 miles from Belmont Harbor, and its final resting place was discovered at a depth of 147 feet by the Michigan Shipwreck Research Association.
Infamous Criminal Case
In 1924, Nathan Leopold Jr. and Richard Loeb, two privileged youths, orchestrated the murder of Bobby Franks. The crime was sensationalized as a “perfect murder,” intended to evade capture. However, their confession led to a trial that captivated the nation.
Charles Lindbergh’s Remarkable Flight
Charles Lindbergh made headlines in 1927 by completing the first solo nonstop trans-Atlantic flight from New York to Paris in 33 hours and 29 minutes. His arrival was marked by the query, “Am I in Paris?”
Historic Baseball Game
In 1943, the Chicago White Sox triumphed over the Washington Senators at Comiskey Park. The game, lasting 1 hour and 29 minutes, was recorded as the fastest nine-inning game in American League history played under the lights.
Valuable Artifact Theft
In 2017, a mystery clock valued at $425,000 was stolen from an antiques exhibition at Merchandise Mart, highlighting a notable incident involving high-value theft.
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