Significant Events in Chicago on October 15

Early Adventures in Video Gaming

In 1971, Nutting Associates from Mountain View, California, showcased Computer Space, the world’s first coin-operated video arcade game, at the Music Operators of America convention held in the Sherman House Hotel. Although the pre-Asteroids shooting game challenged players and sold 1,500 units, its creator, Nolan Bushnell, understood the need for simpler games. In 1972, Bushnell, together with Ted Dabney, founded Atari and introduced Pong. Bushnell later ventured into the restaurant business, acquiring a chain that would become Chuck E. Cheese.

Weather Records for October 15

• Highest Temperature: 88 degrees in 1947
• Lowest Temperature: 28 degrees in 1876
• Precipitation: 1.66 inches in 1967
• Snowfall: None

Chicago White Sox Triumph in 1917

The Chicago White Sox clinched the World Series on October 15, 1917, by defeating the New York Giants 4-2 in Game 6. Eddie Collins took advantage of the Giants leaving home plate uncovered, securing victory. This marked the team’s second championship title. The White Sox would not win another until 2005, 88 years later.

Tribune Wins Landmark Libel Case

In 1921, the Tribune emerged victorious in a libel suit filed by the city of Chicago. This set an important precedent that safeguarded the media’s right to critically examine government actions.

Chicago Bulls’ Historic Game

On October 18, 1966, the Chicago Bulls played their first-ever game, securing a 104-97 win against the Hawks in St. Louis. Three days later, they celebrated another win for their home opener, defeating the San Francisco Warriors 119-116. Jerry Sloan, who scored 26 points, played alongside teammates Bob Boozer, Don Kojis, Len Chappell, and Guy Rodgers, under the guidance of coach John “Red” Kerr.

Sears Files for Bankruptcy

Sears, a staple in Chicago’s retail landscape, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2018. Over its 130-year history, Sears navigated numerous challenges from the Great Depression to evolving consumer habits. Ultimately, competition from discount retailers and online merchants led to its decline. The last Sears store in Illinois closed in 2021.

Anne Pramaggiore and the ComEd Investigation

In 2019, Anne Pramaggiore, the CEO of Exelon Utilities, stepped down amid a federal investigation into lobbying activities in Illinois. Pramaggiore was implicated, along with other ComEd executives, in a scheme funneling $1.3 million to associates of House Speaker Michael Madigan to support ComEd’s legislative initiatives. Found guilty on all counts, Pramaggiore received a two-year prison sentence and a $750,000 fine in 2025.