Historical Highlights from Chicago on June 8

Sports Memories: June 8, 1971

In 1971, Peoria-born catcher Danny Goodwin made headlines when drafted by the Chicago White Sox as the No. 1 pick. Opting against signing a lucrative offer, Goodwin attended Southern University. Later in 1975, the California Angels picked him again as the first choice. He ultimately played seven seasons in Major League Baseball.

Weather Records (Provided by the National Weather Service)

• High Temperature: 97 degrees in 1933
• Low Temperature: 42 degrees in 1885
• Precipitation: 2.07 inches in 1958
• Snowfall: Trace in 2015

Innovation in Cleaning: June 8, 1869

On this date in 1869, Ives W. McGaffey of Chicago received a patent for a “sweeping machine,” a precursor to the modern vacuum cleaner. Despite its challenging hand crank and $25 price, the model was revolutionary. In collaboration with the American Carpet Cleaning Co. of Boston, sales occurred in Chicago and Boston. Many units likely perished in the 1871 Chicago Fire.

Bobby Orr Joins the Blackhawks: 1976

Boston Bruins legend Bobby Orr signed with the Chicago Blackhawks in 1976. Although knee injuries hampered his playing career, he was appointed as an assistant coach in 1978.

Patrick Kane’s Iconic Moment: 2013

In 2013, Patrick Kane delivered a memorable performance by scoring his third goal in double overtime. This achievement helped the Blackhawks secure the Western Conference title against the Los Angeles Kings. Kane shared that the experience felt surreal, describing it as a ‘Twilight Zone’ moment.

Celebrated Theatre Production: Future Recognition in 2025

Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s production “Purpose” by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins received acclaim in 2025. It won Tony Awards for Best Play and earned a Pulitzer Prize after moving to Broadway the same year.