Historical Events in Chicago: September 3 Highlights

Labor Day March in 1894

On September 3, 1894, thousands of tradesmen and union members participated in a significant march through Lincoln Park towards Ogden’s Grove picnic area. This event marked the nation’s first Labor Day celebration, despite inclement weather. Approximately 6,500 members from various unions, including carpenters, painters, plumbers, and tile-layers, led the procession to Ogden’s Grove.

Weather Records in Chicago

According to National Weather Service records in Chicago, various weather extremes have been noted on September 3 over the years, including a high temperature of 97 degrees in 1953 and a low temperature of 47 degrees in 1974. Precipitation reached 1.92 inches in 1961, with no recorded snowfall.

Charles Dvorak’s Olympic Achievement

Charles Dvorak, from the Chicago Athletic Association, experienced challenges at the 1900 Summer Olympics in France. Initially expected to compete on a Sunday, which conflicted with Sabbath observance, he missed the event that was reportedly rescheduled. Subsequently, he earned a silver medal in a consolation competition. Dvorak later returned to the Olympics in St. Louis in 1904, setting an Olympic record in the pole vault with a height of 11 feet, 6 inches. He innovated by using a lighter bamboo pole instead of heavier materials like ash or hickory.

Bank President Paul Stensland’s Capture

In September 1906, Paul Stensland, the fugitive president of Milwaukee Avenue Bank, was found in Tangier, Morocco, after absconding with more than $1 million. The Chicago Tribune’s intervention led to his surrender and return to Chicago, where he pleaded guilty to embezzlement and served time in Joliet penitentiary. Tribune managing editor James Keeley received and then donated the $5,000 reward for Stensland’s capture back to the bank.

Billy Williams Ends Consecutive Game Streak

By 1970, renowned Chicago Cubs player Billy Williams concluded his streak of 1,117 consecutive games played when he sat out a game against the Philadelphia Phillies, where the Cubs won 7-2.

Chicago Teachers Union Strike

On September 3, 1975, Chicago Teachers Union members voted overwhelmingly to strike. It coincided with the scheduled first day of the academic year. The union sought a comprehensive contract addressing smaller class sizes, a cost-of-living pay raise, and enhanced fringe benefits. The strike lasted 102 days, eventually concluding with the Board of Education agreeing to a new contract with a 7.1% salary increase and improvements in insurance and class sizes. The settlement cost totaled $79.6 million.

CTA Train Extension to O’Hare Airport

September 3, 1984, saw the Chicago Transit Authority extend train services to O’Hare International Airport. The Tribune noted that, at 90 cents for a one-way trip, riding the “L” presented a cost-effective alternative to taxis or shuttle buses.