Chicago History: Feb 14th – NIU Shooting, St. Valentine’s Day Massacre & More
February 14th holds a complex place in Chicago’s history, marked by moments of profound tragedy, groundbreaking progress, and fierce competition. A review of historical records reveals a day etched with both sorrow and achievement, spanning from gangland violence to athletic triumphs and pivotal social advancements.
A Day of Remembrance and Reflection
The most searing memory associated with February 14th in Chicago’s recent past is the tragic shooting at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb in 2008. A former student opened fire in an oceanography lecture hall, claiming the lives of five students before taking his own life. This event remains a stark reminder of the vulnerability of educational institutions and the devastating consequences of gun violence.
Weather Extremes and Daily Life
Chicago’s weather on February 14th has varied dramatically throughout history. Records from the National Weather Service show a high of 62 degrees Fahrenheit in 1954, contrasting sharply with a low of minus 11 degrees in 1905. In 1990, a significant snowstorm brought travel to a standstill, with visibility dropping to near zero and O’Hare airport temporarily closing.
The city experienced a particularly challenging snowfall in 1990, with 10 inches accumulating and causing widespread disruption. Mayor Richard M. Daley acknowledged the slow response of snow removal crews, but expressed confidence in his leadership, stating, “I’m not going to run and hide.”
Moments of Progress and Competition
February 14th has also been a date of significant progress. In 1920, the League of Women Voters was founded in Chicago, with Maud Wood Park serving as its first president. This organization played a crucial role in advocating for women’s rights and civic engagement.
The date also holds a place in sports history. In 1951, Sugar Ray Robinson defeated Jake LaMotta in a 13-round TKO at Chicago Stadium to claim the middleweight championship. LaMotta, known as “Raging Bull,” had previously never been knocked down, preserving that record despite the defeat.
A Dark Chapter: The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre
Perhaps the most infamous event associated with February 14th in Chicago is the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Seven men, suspected members of George “Bugs” Moran’s gang, were lined up and murdered by rivals, an act widely believed to have been ordered by Al Capone. This event cemented Capone’s control over Chicago’s criminal underworld.
The massacre effectively eliminated the last significant challenge to Capone’s authority, solidifying his position as the city’s most powerful crime boss. The brutality of the event shocked the nation and remains a chilling reminder of the violence that plagued the Prohibition era.
Looking Ahead
Given the historical precedent, future February 14ths in Chicago could see continued commemorations of past events, alongside new developments in the city’s ongoing story. Discussions surrounding gun violence prevention will continue in the wake of the NIU shooting, and that the legacy of the League of Women Voters will inspire further civic engagement. The city’s response to future weather events will likely be informed by the lessons learned from the 1990 snowstorm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Northern Illinois University on February 14, 2008?
A former student opened fire in a lecture hall, killing five students before taking his own life.
Who was involved in the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre?
Seven men, suspected members of George “Bugs” Moran’s gang, were murdered, with the killings widely believed to have been ordered by Al Capone.
What was the highest temperature recorded in Chicago on February 14th?
The highest temperature recorded was 62 degrees Fahrenheit in 1954.
Considering the diverse and often dramatic events that have unfolded on February 14th in Chicago’s history, what do you believe is the most enduring legacy of this date for the city?