A Look Back at Chicago’s July 1 Highlights
July 1 holds notable significance in Chicago’s history, marked by key events in sports, military, aviation, and politics.
White Sox Park Opening – 1910
On July 1, 1910, White Sox Park opened its doors to over 28,000 fans. The Chicago White Sox clinched a victory against the St. Louis Browns with a score of 2-0. This venue, later renamed Comiskey Park, became a cornerstone of Chicago’s sports history.
U.S. Naval Station Great Lakes – 1911
The U.S. Naval Station Great Lakes began operations on July 1, 1911, in North Chicago. Known as the U.S. Navy’s largest training base and the sole boot camp, the station was established following a Congress decision in 1904. Joseph Gregg from Terre Haute, Indiana, was the first recruit, arriving two days after the opening. Gregg graduated with the first class of 300 sailors in the presence of President William Howard Taft.
First Aviation Crossing of Lake Michigan – 1913
Aviator Logan A. “Jack” Vilas achieved a pioneering feat on July 1, 1913, by crossing Lake Michigan by air. Piloting a Curtiss hydroplane with passenger William Bastar, Vilas flew from St. Joseph, Michigan, to Grant Park, Chicago. The flight took one hour and 34 minutes, overcoming challenging air currents.
Brookfield Zoo Opening – 1934
Brookfield Zoo welcomed the public on this date, greeting nearly 60,000 visitors. Among the residents was Cookie, a pink cockatoo, who became one of the zoo’s most memorable animals over the years.
First Night Game at Wrigley Field – 1943
Wrigley Field hosted its inaugural night game on July 1, 1943. The event was a benefit all-star game featuring players from the All-American Girls Professional Ball League. This game came four years after Comiskey Park hosted the first major league night game in the city.
Illinois State Income Tax – 1969
July 1, 1969, marked the introduction of Illinois’ first income tax. Republican Governor Richard Ogilvie allied with Mayor Richard J. Daley to gather support for a flat-rate income tax bill: 2.5% for individuals and 4% for corporations.
Illinois State Flag – 1970
In 1970, Illinois officially adopted its state flag, which features a white field, the word “Illinois,” and the emblem portion of the state seal.
Derecho Weather Event – 2012
The Chicago area experienced severe weather on July 1, 2012. A storm caused extensive damage, including power line destruction and roof damage, along with travel delays. Severe winds affected the area, and about 60 kayakers were rescued from the Chicago River due to dangerous conditions.
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