Historical Events in Chicago on August 16

Remembering August 16 in Chicago History

Here is a look back at notable events that took place on August 16 in Chicago, according to the Chicago Tribune‘s archives.

1977: Elvis Presley’s Death

On August 16, 1977, Elvis Presley, the renowned singer and actor, was found unconscious at his Graceland mansion in Tennessee. He was declared dead at 3:30 p.m. Chicago time at the age of 42. Fans worldwide mourned the loss of this legendary performer.

Weather Records

The National Weather Service in Chicago provides historical weather data for August 16:

• High Temperature: 98 degrees (1988)
• Low Temperature: 48 degrees (2004)
• Precipitation: 3.79 inches (1968)
• Snowfall: None recorded

1927: Babe Ruth’s Home Run

On this date in 1927, Babe Ruth, a New York Yankees slugger, became the first baseball player to hit a home run over the roof of the newly constructed double-deck right field stand at Comiskey Park. This marked his 37th home run of the season. The Yankees triumphed over the Chicago White Sox 8-1 that day.

1930: Arrival of Bushman the Gorilla

The Lincoln Park Zoo welcomed a young gorilla named Bushman in 1930. Purchased for $3,500 (equivalent to nearly $71,000 today), Bushman was captured in Cameroon. To secure him, J.L. Buck, an animal hunter from Massachusetts, killed the gorilla’s mother. Bushman’s arrival marked a time when little was understood about gorillas and their care. Bushman became a beloved attraction at the zoo, viewed by millions, until his death in 1951. His remains can now be seen at The Field Museum.

1965: Plane Crash in Lake Michigan

Tragedy struck on August 16, 1965, when United Airlines Flight 389 crashed into Lake Michigan near Highland Park. The aircraft, a 727 jet, was just moments away from landing at O’Hare International Airport. All 30 passengers aboard perished, witnessed by those who saw the flash and heard the explosion.

1989: “Uncle Buck” Premieres

The movie “Uncle Buck” starring John Candy premiered on this date in 1989, filmed in Chicago and its suburbs. The Tribune rated the movie three out of four stars.

1996: Binti-Jua’s Heroic Act

In a remarkable event at Brookfield Zoo on August 16, 1996, a western lowland gorilla named Binti-Jua, with her baby on her back, rescued a 3-year-old boy who had fallen into her habitat. Binti-Jua’s gentle and protective actions were viewed as maternal compassion, earning her the title of Hero of the Year in a Newsweek poll. Zookeepers retrieved the boy, who survived with a head injury.