Key Events in Chicago on October 20

Flashback to October 20, 1926

On October 20, 1926, Chicago marked the dedication of Wacker Drive. This event, captured by the Chicago Herald and Examiner, showcased a view looking southwest along this important arterial road.

Weather Records for October 20

According to the National Weather Service, several notable weather records exist for this date in Chicago:

• High Temperature: 86 degrees in 1953
• Low Temperature: 24 degrees in 1930
• Precipitation: 1.65 inches in 1916
• Snowfall: 3 inches in 1952

Goodman Memorial Theatre Dedication

In 1925, the Kenneth Sawyer Goodman Memorial Theatre opened its doors. Named after the late Chicago playwright, this 700-seat venue was dedicated adjacent to the Art Institute of Chicago. By the year 2000, the theater relocated to 170 N. Dearborn St., enabling the Art Institute’s Modern Wing expansion.

Federal Correctional Institution Incident, 1995

An incident occurred at the Federal Correctional Institution in Greenville in 1995. Inmates took control of a housing unit following a lockdown initiative by the Justice Department.

Laquan McDonald Shooting, 2014

On October 20, 2014, Laquan McDonald, a 17-year-old, was shot by Officer Jason Van Dyke 16 times at the intersection of 41st Street and Pulaski Road. McDonald was pronounced dead at Mount Sinai Hospital. The subsequent trial found Van Dyke guilty of second-degree murder and aggravated battery, resulting in an 81-month prison sentence. He was released in February 2022 after serving over three years.

College of DuPage Trustees’ Decision, 2015

The trustees at College of DuPage voted to dismiss President Robert Breuder in 2015. This decision was based on grounds including excessive spending and poor financial management. Breuder was expected to receive a $4 million settlement by 2022, resolving a lengthy legal conflict.