Hundreds gather to remember 1990 Plainfield tornado
It's been 25 years since a EF-5 tornado ripped through Plainfield, and more than 200 people gathered Friday at a memorial to remember those who lost their lives that day. “This community came back after the tornado,” said Mayor Michael Collins. “We've grown. We've come together. We're strong, and we're certainly looking forward to the future.”
The names of the 29 people who died on Aug. 28, 1990, were read aloud by Mary Latta, mayor at the time of the tragedy, at 3:48 p.m., the time when the tornado hit.
Hundreds of people were injured when the tornado — one of the most powerful ever recorded in the state — ripped a 16-mile path through the southwest suburbs, destroying parts of Plainfield, Crest Hill and Joliet. Plainfield High School and St. Mary's Immaculate Church were devastated, along with dozens of homes.
Barb Souders of Plainfield said a message of remembrance delivered Friday by the Rev. Kristen Larsen, former pastor at Plainfield United Methodist Church, was especially moving.
“Everything hit home,” she said. “It broke my heart.”
The ceremony also included a performance by the Plainfield Central High School choir and wind ensemble, a wreath laying, the tolling of church bells and a closing prayer.