Significant Events on July 26
The following events occurred in the Chicago area on July 26, as documented in the Tribune’s archives:
2016: A Milestone for Women in Politics
Hillary Clinton, raised in Park Ridge, achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman nominated to lead a major American political party as she ran for the presidency. This momentous event took place during the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia.
Weather Records for July 26
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the area recorded a high temperature of 99 degrees in 1955 and a low of 53 degrees in 1991. The maximum precipitation recorded was 4.1 inches in 1878. No snowfall was reported on this day.
1952: Adlai Stevenson’s Candidacy
In 1952, Governor Adlai Stevenson of Illinois found himself drafted as the Democratic presidential nominee despite not actively seeking the position. During the third round of voting at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Stevenson was selected. Although initially reluctant, he vowed to campaign vigorously. Eisenhower ultimately won the election, marking the first Republican victory in the White House in 24 years.
1964: Jimmy Hoffa’s Legal Troubles
On July 26, 1964, Jimmy Hoffa, president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, was found guilty on several fraud charges and conspiracy related to the Teamsters’ Central States Pension Fund. He had also been convicted of jury tampering earlier that year.
1985: Old St. Patrick’s Church Event
Old St. Patrick’s Church hosted its inaugural “World’s Largest Block Party” in 1985. The event featured entertainment from Stanley Paul & His Orchestra and the Jesse White Tumblers. Tickets were priced at $15. The church held this annual event until it was discontinued in 2020.
2005: Greg Maddux’s Pitching Achievement
Chicago Cubs pitcher Greg Maddux reached a significant career milestone on July 26, 2005. Following a rain delay, Maddux achieved his 3,000th career strikeout against the San Francisco Giants. He became one of only 13 pitchers in MLB history to achieve 3,000 strikeouts and one of nine with both 3,000 strikeouts and 300 wins. Maddux was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014.