Notable Events on July 27 in Chicago History

The Chicago Tribune archives provide a look back at notable events occurring in Chicago on July 27 over the years. Reflecting on these events offers insight into the city’s complex history.

Sly and the Family Stone Concert Riot, 1970

On July 27, 1970, over 50,000 people gathered in Grant Park for a concert by Sly and the Family Stone, which turned into a five-hour riot. The unexpectedly large crowd prompted the band to refuse to perform. This decision incited violence, leading to multiple injuries and arrests. A total of 162 people were injured, including 126 police officers, with 30 officers requiring hospitalization. The chaos extended beyond the park, with cars overturned and department stores looted. Ultimately, police detained 160 individuals as the unrest spread through the Loop.

Race Riots, 1919

On Chicago’s South Side, a violent episode during the 1919 race riots was sparked when Black teenager Eugene Williams drowned after white youths threw rocks at him. This incident highlighted racial tensions as unequal justice prevailed during the subsequent violence. The Illinois militia and weather changes eventually quelled the four-day unrest.

Helicopter Crash, 1960

A Chicago Helicopter Airways flight crashed in a Forest Park cemetery during a shuttle between Midway and O’Hare airports in 1960. A rotor blade failure caused the crash, resulting in the deaths of 13 people. This tragic event led to federal mandates for more thorough inspections to prevent similar accidents.

Construction of the Sears Tower, 1970

Sears, Roebuck & Co. announced plans to build the world’s tallest building in 1970. The Sears Tower, completed in 1973, stood at 1,450 feet with 110 stories. Although it lost its record as the world’s tallest building in 1996 to Malaysia’s Petronas Towers, it remains a key architectural milestone.

Otto the Gorilla’s Escape, 1982

A 450-pound gorilla named Otto, a prominent figure in a 1976 documentary, escaped the Lincoln Park Zoo on July 27, 1982. He managed to scale an 11-foot wall, reaching the administration building’s roof. Veterinarian intervention was necessary to subdue him with tranquilizer darts, after which zoo staff returned Otto to safety.

Wrigley Field Night Game Ban, 1983

In 1983, Chicago aldermen passed an ordinance prohibiting sporting events in large stadiums between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. This law, targeting venues with over 15,000 seats situated near residential areas, indirectly affected Wrigley Field and its ability to host night games.

Siamese Dream Release, 1993

In 1993, the Smashing Pumpkins released their album “Siamese Dream.” The band’s frontman, Billy Corgan, viewed their music as an expression for his generation. The album received national attention, positioning the band as a significant force in the alternative rock scene.