Significant Events in Chicago on June 5

Historic Fire at LaSalle Hotel

On June 5, 1946, a tragic fire engulfed the LaSalle Hotel in Chicago, situated at the northwest corner of LaSalle and Madison streets. Sixty-one people lost their lives, and over 200 suffered injuries, marking it as the deadliest hotel fire in Chicago’s history. The hotel was ultimately demolished during the 1970s.

The interior of the LaSalle Hotel bore witness to this devastating event as reported by the Chicago Herald-American.

Notable Weather Records

The National Weather Service in Chicago records indicate that June 5 witnessed varied weather conditions over the years. The highest temperature registered was 97 degrees in 1971, while the lowest dipped to 37 degrees in 1945. The area received an inch of precipitation in 1932 and a trace amount of snowfall in 1955.

Historical Railroad Connection

In 1854, the Rock Island Railroad established a critical connection between Chicago, Lockport, and the Mississippi River, enhancing transportation and commerce.

Auto-Polo at Comiskey Park

On June 7-8, 1913, Comiskey Park hosted a series of auto-polo matches, with entry fees ranging from 25 cents to $1. Chicago faced New York, losing 9-8 during the day but securing a 10-8 victory at night. The Chicago Tribune highlighted the absence of injuries as a remarkable aspect of the contests.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Setting

In 1985, according to the iconic movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” this was the day when the high school protagonist and his friends explored Chicago while skipping school.

Frank Thomas Drafted

In the 1989 baseball draft, the Chicago White Sox selected Auburn first baseman Frank Thomas as their seventh pick. Known as the “Big Hurt,” Thomas played with the White Sox from 1990 to 2005, finishing his 19-year career with 521 home runs, including 448 with the Sox. He earned a spot in the Hall of Fame on his first ballot in 2014.

Michael Jordan’s Iconic Move

On June 5, 1991, during the NBA Finals, Marv Albert famously commented on Michael Jordan’s spectacular play, where Jordan switched hands mid-air to score against the Seattle SuperSonics.

Princess Diana’s Chicago Visit

Princess Diana made her first and only visit to Chicago on June 5, 1996, prioritizing cancer awareness and fundraising. Over 46 hours, she raised more than $1 million for cancer charities in Chicago and London. Her visit included speaking at a breast cancer symposium at Northwestern University, touring medical facilities, and attending a fundraising dinner at the Field Museum, where she shared a dance with Phil Donahue.