A Look Back at Chicago Events on October 19

October 19, 2014: Presidential Support in Chicago

On October 19, 2014, President Barack Obama turned his attention to Illinois Governor Pat Quinn’s re-election campaign at Chicago State University. Leveraging his hometown appeal, Obama aimed to reinvigorate the Democratic voters during a non-presidential election year, a time when voter participation typically declines. This visit marked Obama’s second trip back to Chicago to support Pat Quinn, following a lavish fundraiser earlier.

Weather Records

According to historical data from the National Weather Service in Chicago, weather on October 19 has varied significantly over the years:

• Highest temperature recorded: 84 degrees in 1971.
• Lowest temperature documented: 21 degrees in 1992.
• Precipitation measured: 2.22 inches in 1885.
• Snowfall observed: 3.8 inches in 1989.

October 19, 1970: The Escape Attempt of Gene Lewis

Convicted murderer Gene Lewis attempted a daring escape from the Criminal Courts Building on October 19, 1970. Using a handgun concealed inside a hollowed-out book, Lewis tried to flee, aided by his girlfriend. However, his attempt was thwarted and he was shot and killed by the police. Lewis had been sentenced to death for the murder of security guard James Wilson.

October 19, 1983: Nobel Recognition in Astrophysics

Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, renowned astrophysicist from the University of Chicago, received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1983. His award was shared with William Alfred Fowler. Chandrasekhar’s groundbreaking work on white dwarfs initially faced skepticism from his peers. However, over time, astronomers validated his findings as white dwarfs gained recognition as one of the cosmos’ most prevalent star types.

Aside from his Nobel-winning work, Chandrasekhar was esteemed for his contributions to the study of black holes. He made history as the second recipient of the Nobel Prize within his family, following his uncle, Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, who earned the prize in 1930 for discovering Raman light scattering.

October 19, 1987: Starbucks Makes Its Chicago Debut

Starbucks ventured into Chicago on October 19, 1987, opening its first location at 219 W. Jackson Blvd. The coffee bar introduced a variety of espresso beverages alongside offerings like steamed cider, cocoa, and mineral water. At the time, a shot of espresso cost 81 cents, including tax.

October 19, 1988: Leon Lederman’s Nobel Prize in Physics

Leon M. Lederman, serving as director of Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics on October 19, 1988. The prize, shared with Melvin Schwartz and Jack Steinberger, recognized their research in subatomic particles.

October 19, 2007: Patrick Kane’s First NHL Goal

Patrick Kane, a winger for the Chicago Blackhawks, left an indelible mark on October 19, 2007. He celebrated his first NHL goal during the team’s 5-3 victory against the Colorado Avalanche at the United Center. Kane’s performance, including two assists, positioned him as the leading scorer for the Blackhawks at the time with seven points.