Notable Events in Chicago’s History on October 3

Significant Occurrences from Chicago’s Past

Exploring the history of Chicago offers insights into the city’s dynamic cultural and social evolution. Here are key events from different years, reflecting Chicago’s vibrant past.

1969: The First Black Expo

The inaugural Black Expo, organized by Operation Breadbasket of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, debuted at the International Amphitheatre. Noteworthy attendees included poet Gwendolyn Brooks and musical talents Marvin Gaye, Mahalia Jackson, the Staple Singers, B.B. King, and Aretha Franklin. This convention continued annually until 1976 and saw a revival in the 1990s.

Weather Records on October 3

• High Temperature: 91 degrees in 1954
• Low Temperature: 29 degrees in 1981
• Precipitation: 3.95 inches in 1954
• Snowfall: None recorded

1915: Cubs’ Farewell to West Side Grounds

The Chicago Cubs played their last game at West Side Grounds, defeating the St. Louis Cardinals. This venue, located between Polk, Wood, and Taylor streets and Wolcott Avenue, had hosted several World Series games in the early 1900s. Today, it is part of the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine.

1930: Soldier Field’s Night Football Debut

Soldier Field showcased its first-ever night football game, where Oregon triumphed over Drake with a score of 14-7. This event marked a new era for the stadium’s facilities.

1983: Teachers’ Strike in Chicago

The second-longest strike in the history of Chicago Public Schools lasted 15 days, affecting over 420,000 students. A proposed settlement included a 5% raise for teachers, with a total cost of $81 million. Approximately a quarter of the teachers opted for their pay over 12 months instead of the school year.

1987: Prolonged Teachers’ Strike Resolved

Lasting 19 days, this strike was the longest for Chicago Public Schools. Teachers received a 4% salary increase with a plan to reduce class sizes in specific schools. The financial package, costing $43.8 million, necessitated eliminating 1,800 positions.

1992: The Obamas’ Wedding

Barack and Michelle Obama exchanged vows at Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago. Their reception took place at the South Shore Cultural Center, marking the beginning of their journey together.

2010: Nancy Faust’s Final Performance

After 41 seasons, White Sox organist Nancy Faust concluded her career at U.S. Cellular Field. Known for energizing the crowd with tunes like “Na Na Hey Hey Goodbye,” her music became a staple at the games.

2018: Suspension of Addison Russell

Cubs shortstop Addison Russell faced a 40-game suspension post a wild-card game loss to the Rockies due to a violation of MLB’s domestic-abuse policy. Consequently, Russell was optioned to Triple-A Iowa after the suspension.

2019: Museum Renaming Initiative

The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago announced its renaming plan following a historic $125 million donation by Chicago billionaire Ken Griffin. This gift represented the largest in the museum’s history.

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