Chicago’s Last Streetcar
On June 21, 1958, the last remaining Chicago streetcar made its final journey, marking the end of an era. Al Carter was the last paying customer on this streetcar and had the distinction of being the final passenger at the 1933-34 Century of Progress World’s Fair.
Weather Records
Historical weather data for Chicago on June 21 reveals extremes. The National Weather Service recorded a high temperature of 101 degrees in 1988 and a low of 38 degrees in 1992. There was 1.58 inches of precipitation in 1875, and snowfall was documented as a trace in 2013.
1920 Murder Case
On June 21, 1920, Carl Wanderer, a U.S. Army veteran, was involved in a tragic incident. He initially claimed an unknown assailant shot his wife, Ruth Wanderer, during a robbery attempt. Later, he confessed to orchestrating her murder and killing the supposed assailant, which became known as ‘The Case of the Ragged Stranger.’
Bessie Coleman’s Achievements
In 1921, Bessie Coleman became the first Black woman to earn a pilot’s license. Awarded by the International Aeronautical Federation in France, this achievement occurred nearly two years before Amelia Earhart’s license. Coleman returned to the U.S. and inspired African Americans to pursue aviation through exhibition flights.
Civil Rights Rally
On June 21, 1964, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke at the Illinois Rally for Civil Rights in Soldier Field. Addressing over 57,000 people, King emphasized the importance of demonstrations and voting in large numbers, asserting nonviolence as vital in the fight for human dignity.
Teachers Union Vote
In 1971, the Chicago Teachers Union agreed to a plan that limited school faculties to a maximum of 75% Black or 75% white teachers. The acceptance vote had a significantly larger turnout than previous contract votes.
Museum of Contemporary Art Opens
On June 21, 1996, the Museum of Contemporary Art unveiled its new building on East Chicago Avenue, inviting the public for a unique 24-hour opening event attended by approximately 25,000 visitors.
2011 Tornadoes
On June 21, 2011, tornadoes struck Downers Grove and Mount Prospect, causing damage yet leaving warning sirens silent. The storms toppled trees and knocked out power lines, with the tornadoes measuring 200 yards wide and covering two miles.
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