Significant Events in Chicago on May 21

Amelia Earhart’s Historic Flight

On May 21, 1932, Amelia Earhart completed a groundbreaking solo flight from New Jersey to Northern Ireland. This accomplishment made her the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, spanning 2,026½ miles in 14 hours and 54 minutes. She remarked to the Tribune that her flight was made “just for fun.” Earhart emphasized her independence by choosing to retain her maiden name professionally after marriage.

Weather Records of May 21 in Chicago

On different years, May 21 brought varied weather conditions to Chicago. In 1977, temperatures soared to 92 degrees. In contrast, 2002 recorded a low of 31 degrees. In 2018, the city experienced 1.96 inches of rainfall, while a trace amount of snow fell in 1969.

Thomas Hume Schooner Tragedy

In 1891, the Thomas Hume schooner left Chicago for Muskegon, Michigan, amidst rough waters. Unlike the Rouse Simmons, which turned back, the Thomas Hume pressed on and tragically disappeared. It was eventually found 147 feet underwater, 22 miles from Belmont Harbor.

The Leopold and Loeb Case

In 1924, Nathan Leopold Jr. and Richard Loeb, prominent Kenwood families’ sons, murdered Bobby Franks. Their idea of a “perfect murder” failed as they confessed and stood trial for what was dubbed the “crime of the century.”

Charles Lindbergh’s Transatlantic Flight

Charles Lindbergh made history on May 21, 1927, by landing in Paris after a nonstop flight from New York, lasting 33 hours and 29 minutes. His first words upon landing were, “Am I in Paris?” to which Tribune reporter Henry Wales confirmed, “You’re here.”

Chicago White Sox Historic Game

On May 21, 1943, the Chicago White Sox played the fastest nine-inning game in American League history, defeating the Washington Senators 1-0 in 1 hour and 29 minutes.

2017 Jewel Heist

A jewel-encrusted Asprey & Co. mystery clock worth $425,000 was stolen from an antiques exhibition at Merchandise Mart in 2017.