A Look Back at June 22 in Chicago History

The events of June 22 in the Chicago area have left significant marks on both local and national history. According to Tribune archives, several key developments occurred on this date.

Sports Achievements

On June 22, 1987, the Chicago Bulls made pivotal moves in the NBA draft. They traded with Seattle to acquire Scottie Pippen from Central Arkansas, selecting him in the first round. Additionally, the Bulls added Horace Grant, a forward from Clemson, further strengthening their roster. These actions set the foundation for future success. On February 15, 2011, Derrick Rose demonstrated remarkable skill at the United Center playing against the Bobcats.

Record-Breaking Weather

Weather records from the National Weather Service in Chicago report extremes experienced on June 22. The high temperature reached 97 degrees in 1988, with a low of 40 degrees recorded in 1875. The area saw 1.55 inches of precipitation in 2020 and a trace of snowfall in 1928.

Political Conventions

Chicago hosted major political conventions in 1912. President William H. Taft’s renomination as the Republican candidate faced opposition from former President Theodore Roosevelt. Roosevelt formed the Progressive Party, holding a separate convention in the city. Ultimately, both lost to Democrat Woodrow Wilson.

Historic Boxing Match

June 22, 1937, marked a significant event at Comiskey Park. Joe Louis claimed the heavyweight boxing title by defeating James Braddock in front of 41,675 spectators. This fight was the first heavyweight title match in Chicago in a decade, adding to the city’s rich boxing history.

Opening of Dairy Queen

On June 22, 1940, Dairy Queen opened its first location in Joliet, Illinois. Sherb Noble started the venture, selling soft-serve ice cream made by his friend J.F. McCullough. The name reflected Noble’s belief in the cow as the queen of the dairy industry. The brand has grown significantly, eventually being acquired by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway in 1997.

Development of O’Hare International Airport

In 1949, significant developments took place when the Douglas airport was renamed O’Hare Field, and Northerly Island airport became Merrill C. Meigs Field, following approval by the Chicago City Council. This marked the transition of O’Hare into a major global terminal.

Bulls Trade in 2016

In 2016, the Chicago Bulls decided to trade Derrick Rose to the New York Knicks, marking a new chapter in the team’s strategy and reshaping their roster.

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