Notable Events in Chicago on May 17

Sports Highlights from May 17, 1979

On May 17, 1979, Wrigley Field witnessed an unforgettable baseball game. The Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Chicago Cubs with a score of 23-22. This game set several team records:

• Most total bases in a game (97)
• Most home runs in a game (11)
• Most total bases achieved by each team, with 49 for the Cubs and 48 for the Phillies
• Most home runs conceded by the Phillies (6)
• Most runs scored by the Phillies in a game (23)

During the game, both teams showcased their offensive skills. In the first inning, the Phillies scored seven runs on seven hits, while the Cubs responded with six runs on seven hits. Mike Schmidt’s second homer in the top of the 10th secured the win for the Phillies. The game had a total of 50 hits, with 26 belonging to the Cubs and 11 home runs overall. Dave Kingman stood out by hitting three home runs for the Cubs, while teammates Bill Buckner, Steve Ontiveros, and Jerry Martin each contributed one. The Phillies also had their moments with homers from Bob Boone, Gary Maddox, and Randy Lerch.

In winter 1979-80, WGN-TV replayed this memorable game for viewers to relive the excitement.

Weather Records

According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the weather records for May 17 include:

• Highest temperature: 94 degrees in 1962
• Lowest temperature: 36 degrees in 2002
• Maximum precipitation: 3.11 inches in 2020
• No recorded snowfall

Chicago’s Cultural Landmarks

In 1900, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, authored by L. Frank Baum, was published. Baum crafted this classic while residing on Chicago’s West Side. Fast forward to November 4, 2019, and visitors could walk past his former home, adorned with newly installed yellow bricks.

Unveiling of Sue the T. rex in 2000

On May 17, 2000, the Field Museum introduced Sue, the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex specimen discovered up to that time. This monumental unveiling took place in Stanley Field Hall, capturing the attention of everyone who visited.