Significant Events in Chicago on October 15
1971: Launch of Computer Space
On October 15, 1971, the first coin-operated video arcade game, Computer Space, was showcased at the Music Operators of America convention in Chicago’s Sherman House Hotel. Created by Nolan Bushnell, who later co-founded Atari, the game initially confused players. Despite this, it sold 1,500 units. Bushnell emphasized the need for simpler games, which led to the birth of Pong in 1972. Post Atari, Bushnell invested in pizza and arcade restaurants, now known as Chuck E. Cheese.
Weather Records in Chicago
According to National Weather Service records, October 15 has seen various weather extremes in Chicago:
- High temperature: 88°F in 1947
- Low temperature: 28°F in 1876
- Precipitation: 1.66 inches in 1967
- Snowfall: None reported
1917: Chicago White Sox Win World Series
The Chicago White Sox secured their second World Series victory on October 15, 1917, defeating the New York Giants 4-2 in Game 6. Eddie Collins capitalized on an opportunity by sprinting home as Giants’ Heinie Zimmerman attempted to catch him, leaving home plate open. The White Sox claimed their third championship 88 years later.
1921: Media Rights Precedent
The Chicago Tribune emerged victorious in a libel lawsuit filed by the city in 1921. This case established a precedent safeguarding journalists’ rights to critique governmental actions.
1966: Chicago Bulls’ First Win
On October 15, 1966, the Chicago Bulls achieved their first-ever game win by defeating the Hawks in St. Louis with a score of 104-97. Subsequently, they triumphed over the San Francisco Warriors during their home opener at Chicago’s International Amphitheatre, ending the game 119-116. The team’s initial lineup consisted of Bob Boozer, Don Kojis, Len Chappell, Guy Rodgers, and Jerry Sloan, under the guidance of Coach John “Red” Kerr.
2018: Sears Bankruptcy Filing
Sears declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy on October 15, 2018, marking a significant restructuring effort for the Chicago-based retail giant. Having survived the Great Depression and weathered evolving consumer preferences, Sears eventually succumbed to competition from discount retailers, specialty stores, and online shopping platforms. The closure of its last Illinois store at Woodfield Mall came in 2021.
2019: Anne Pramaggiore’s Departure
Amid federal investigations related to lobbying activities, Exelon Utilities CEO Anne Pramaggiore retired on October 15, 2019. Later that month, she resigned as chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. In 2023, she and three others, known as the “ComEd Four,” were convicted for their involvement in a scheme aimed at influencing legislation through monetary incentives. Pramaggiore received a prison sentence and substantial fines in July 2025.