Notable Events in Chicago’s History on August 23

1938: The Jitterbug Riot at Soldier Field

On August 23, 1938, Soldier Field in Chicago hosted a massive event with at least 100,000 dancers, mainly teenagers, gathered for a night filled with music and entertainment. This event came to be known as the ‘Jitterbug riot.’ The gates were forced open by thousands eager to enjoy dancing and music. By 7 p.m., the stadium was packed an hour before the scheduled start of the free program.

1982: Legislation Affects Chicago’s Night Games

In 1982, Illinois Governor James R. Thompson signed legislation banning night games to prevent noise pollution, significantly impacting the Chicago sports scene. This law particularly affected Wrigley Field, barring all but daytime games. Gov. Thompson stated this prevented undue hardship on 60,000 residents living nearby. Soldier Field and Comiskey Park were exempted as they had hosted night games before July 1, 1982. However, in 1988, the City Council allowed the Chicago Cubs to hold night games.

1983: First Black Police Superintendent

On August 23, 1983, Fred Rice was appointed as the first Black superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. His leadership marked a significant moment in the city’s history regarding diversity and representation in law enforcement.

1992: The Tragic Case of Tammy Zywicki

Tammy Zywicki, a 21-year-old college student, disappeared on August 23, 1992, after her car broke down on Interstate 80 near Utica, Illinois. She was traveling from New Jersey to Iowa for her final year in college. Nine days later, her body was found in Missouri, showing signs of a violent assault, with eight stab wounds and evidence of sexual violence. Despite investigations, her case remains unsolved.

2002: Cicero’s Corruption Scandal

On this day in 2002, Betty Loren-Maltese, former mayor of Cicero, was convicted of racketeering conspiracy and fraud. Known for connections with organized crime, she, along with six others, stole over $12 million from the town. The funds were misused through a fraudulent insurance firm, Specialty Risk Consultants Inc., linked with the mob. Loren-Maltese was sentenced to eight years in prison but was released after six.

2020: José Abreu’s Historic Home Run Feat

Chicago White Sox first baseman José Abreu made history on August 23, 2020, by hitting four home runs in four consecutive at-bats. Achieving this during a game against the Chicago Cubs, Abreu’s final home run was a significant 449-foot hit during the Crosstown Series.