Significant Events in Chicago on November 11

1918: End of World War I Celebrations

November 11, 1918, marked the end of World War I, a historic moment celebrated widely across the Chicago area. The Chicago Tribune reported that veterans and civilians gathered in the streets, celebrating with hats tossed into the air. The city’s atmosphere was filled with joy and relief as people embraced and celebrated the war’s conclusion.

The following year, Armistice Day was commemorated with a minute of silence at 11 a.m., honoring those who had sacrificed their lives. This silence was followed by festivities, including fireworks, paper confetti, and bands playing the national anthem. The Tribune described these events as a combination of Memorial Day, July 4th, and Christmas.

Weather Records

November 11 showcases notable weather changes in Chicago’s history. The National Weather Service recorded a high temperature of 74 degrees in 1964 and a low of 13 degrees in 2019. A remarkable weather event occurred in 1911, known as “The Great Blue Norther.” Chicago experienced a drastic 61-degree temperature drop from Nov. 11 to Nov. 12, with temperatures plummeting from 74 degrees to 13 degrees.

1925-1926: Soldier Field and the Chicago Bears

On Armistice Day in 1925, Municipal Grant Park Stadium was renamed Soldier Field. However, the Tribune referred to it as Soldiers’ Field. The stadium hosted its first professional football game on November 11, 1926, between the Chicago Bears and the Chicago Cardinals. The Bears triumphed 10-0. Soldier Field did not become the Bears’ official stadium until 1971.

1981: Dan Goodwin’s Ascent of the John Hancock Center

In 1981, Dan Goodwin, famously known as “Spider Dan,” scaled the John Hancock Center. Despite police and firefighters attempting to stop him using high-pressure hoses, he persisted in his climb. After six hours in 40-degree weather, Goodwin reached the top, where police awaited him. His feat captivated Chicagoans, leaving a memorable mark on the city’s history.