Here’s a look back at what happened in the Chicago area on April 7, according to the Tribune’s archives.
Is an important event missing from this date? Email us.
Weather records (from the National Weather Service, Chicago)
- High temperature: 84 degrees (1893)
- Low temperature: 7 degrees (1982)
- Precipitation: 0.81 inches (1998)
- Snowfall: 3 inches (2003)
1924: Postal clerk Henry Gerber formed the Society for Human Rights, but was soon arrested for being gay.
Gerber was never convicted, but the publicity (including a newspaper headline reading “Strange Sex Cult Exposed”) lead to his firing for conduct unbecoming of a postal worker. The group he began quickly disbanded.
In 2015, Gerber’s home at 1710 N. Crilly Court in the Old Town Triangle neighborhood was designated a National Historic Landmark.
1970: Organist Nancy Faust debuted at Comiskey Park. Faust, who played tunes by ear without the use of sheet music, remained a mainstay at Chicago White Sox home games for 41 seasons. She also played organ for other professional sports teams, including the Chicago Bulls from 1977 to 1984 and the Chicago Blackhawks from 1984 to 1988.
A commemorative plaque at The Rate states Faust entertained fans during thousands of games, being credited as the first sports organist to “incorporate popular and rock themes — including her trademark rendition of ‘Na Na Hey Hey (Kiss Him Goodbye)’ into performances.”
1971: Broadcaster Harry Caray called his first White Sox game.
1987: Chicago Mayor Harold Washington won reelection.
1994: Michael Jordan singled, doubled and knocked in two runs for the White Sox in an exhibition game against the Cubs at Wrigley Field.
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