1895: Destruction of H.H. Holmes’ Building
On August 19, 1895, Chicago faced the near destruction of a notorious building. This structure, owned by serial killer H.H. Holmes, was known as the ‘Murder Castle’ located at 610 W. 63rd St. Although initially home to a drugstore on the first floor and rooms above, experts suggest it concealed stolen furniture rather than crimes. The fire almost completely razed the infamous building.
1886: Aftermath of Haymarket Affair
The Haymarket Affair, a pivotal moment in labor history, left a significant mark on Chicago. On May 4, 1886, a bomb thrown during a labor rally resulted in the deaths of eight officers and at least four civilians. On August 19, 1886, eight radicals were tried and convicted. Four were executed, one committed suicide, two received commutations, and one was imprisoned. Later, three surviving defendants were pardoned by Governor John Altgeld.
Chicago honors these events with a memorial on Desplaines Street. The bronze statue marks where the labor meeting took place.
1969: Ken Holtzman’s No-Hitter
Ken Holtzman secured a notable achievement for the Chicago Cubs on August 19, 1969. He accomplished a no-hitter against the Atlanta Braves at Wrigley Field, a first in nearly a decade for the franchise. Holtzman relied heavily on fastballs, walking three but striking out none. Hank Aaron hit a ball that initially seemed destined for a home run, yet strong winds kept it in play, allowing Billy Williams to catch it.
Holtzman joined Jake Arrieta as the only Cubs pitchers to throw two no-hitters in the modern era.
1975: Monarch Butterfly Becomes State Insect
The monarch butterfly became Illinois’ state insect on August 19, 1975, thanks to the determination of third graders from Dennis School in Decatur. Governor Dan Walker signed a bill, marking this as the state’s first official insect. The students participated in the proposal and lobbying process, resulting in a unique governmental learning experience.
2024: Chicago Hosts Democratic National Convention
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson embraced the spotlight on August 19, 2024, during the Democratic National Convention’s commencement. Praising the city’s influential figures, including Ida B. Wells and Barack Obama, Johnson celebrated Chicago’s history of trailblazers. His speech reaffirmed the city’s support for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris as the convention was set to nominate Harris as a presidential candidate.
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