Events on July 16 in Chicago’s History

July 16 has seen many memorable events in Chicago’s history. Here’s a look at some of them gathered from the Tribune’s archives.

2009: The Sears Tower Name Change

The iconic Sears Tower officially became Willis Tower after the Willis Group, a London-based insurance brokerage, acquired the naming rights. Despite the change, many Chicagoans and visitors continue to refer to it as Sears Tower.

Weather Records

Looking at historical weather data from the National Weather Service in Chicago reveals:

• Highest Temperature: 100 degrees (1887)
• Lowest Temperature: 49 degrees (1945)
• Precipitation: 2.48 inches (1950)
• Snowfall: None

The city experienced its first 100-degree day in 1887.

1947: Zale vs. Graziano Fight

In a memorable boxing match, Tony Zale, known as the “Man of Steel,” lost his middleweight title to Rocky Graziano in a sixth-round TKO. The bout unfolded in scorching heat at Chicago Stadium. Zale reclaimed the title shortly afterward.

1971: Princess Grace Visits Chicago

Princess Grace of Monaco visited Chicago and addressed the benefits of breastfeeding at a La Leche League International conference. Having joined the organization in 1965, she shared her personal experience of breastfeeding her children.

2004: Millennium Park Opening

Millennium Park officially opened to the public. The park features the renowned Cloud Gate sculpture, the lively Crown Fountain, Lurie Garden, and the Pritzker Pavilion. Former architect critic Blair Kamin described the park as a positive representation of what Chicago aims to project.

2005: Real Madrid Plays at Soldier Field

Soccer fans gathered at Soldier Field to watch Real Madrid, with David Beckham, play against Mexico’s Chivas Guadalajara. The match saw Real Madrid clinch the win with a late goal, thanks to Beckham’s skillful play.

2019: Capture of “Chance the Snapper”

After a week-long pursuit, professional alligator trapper Frank Robb successfully captured “Chance the Snapper” in the Humboldt Park lagoon. The alligator was relocated to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park in Florida.

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