Exploring historical events in Chicago on October 20 showcases significant moments from the city’s past, as noted in Tribune’s archives. Readers are encouraged to suggest additional events by emailing us.
Wacker Drive Opens
On October 20, 1926, Wacker Drive was inaugurated. This major development was covered by the Chicago Herald and Examiner.
Weather Records
Weather data from the National Weather Service shows varied conditions on October 20:
- High temperature: 86°F in 1953
- Low temperature: 24°F in 1930
- Precipitation: 1.65 inches in 1916
- Snowfall: 3 inches in 1952
Goodman Memorial Theatre Dedication
In 1925, the 700-seat Kenneth Sawyer Goodman Memorial Theatre was dedicated near the Art Institute of Chicago. Named after the playwright Kenneth Sawyer Goodman, it moved to the theater district in 2000 to accommodate the Art Institute’s Modern Wing.
Greenville Inmate Takeover
In 1995, inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution in Greenville seized control of a housing unit following attempts to enforce a lockdown ordered by the Justice Department.
Laquan McDonald Shooting
On October 20, 2014, Officer Jason Van Dyke shot 17-year-old Laquan McDonald 16 times at 41st Street and Pulaski Road. McDonald was declared dead at Mount Sinai Hospital. Van Dyke was convicted of second-degree murder and 16 counts of aggravated battery on October 5, 2018, receiving an 81-month prison sentence but was released in February 2022 after serving over three years.
College of DuPage President Dismissed
In 2015, College of DuPage trustees dismissed President Robert Breuder, citing excessive spending, financial mismanagement, and non-compliance with open records laws. Breuder expected a $4 million settlement in 2022, concluding a prolonged legal dispute.
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