Glen Ellyn Historical Society explores 'The Great Chicago Fire: A Phoenix from the Ashes' Oct. 16
On Saturday, Oct. 16, the Glen Ellyn Historical Society invites the community to "The Great Chicago Fire: A Phoenix from the Ashes," as part of the 150th anniversary commemoration.
Historian and actor Terry Lynch will portray Patrick O'Leary, husband of Catherine O'Leary who was blamed for the Chicago fire, at 2 p.m. in the Glen Ellyn History Center at 800 N. Main St.
In October of 1871, the city of Chicago burned for two days, destroying thousands of building and killing an estimated 300 people.
Commemorating the 150th anniversary of the deadly blaze, Lynch, in character as Patrick O'Leary, discusses the theories surrounding the start of the fire as well as the results.
Was O'Leary's wife, an Irish immigrant named Catherine, to blame, or could it have been someone else? Could it have been a meteorite?
After the blaze, the reconstruction of the city quickly led to an era of unsurpassed economic development and population growth.
Hear how this led to new urban centers as well as a new style of architecture.
Admission is $8, $5 for those 18 or younger, or $6 for historical society members. Refreshments will be served.
For information, call the history center at (630) 469-1867 or visit www.gehs.org.
Stop by Stacy's Corners Store for pumpkins, trolls, napkins/guest towels and fall decor items. It is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. For details, call the store at (630) 469-1867 or email store@gehs.org. All proceeds benefit the Glen Ellyn Historical Society