EASTLAND MEMORIAL REDEDICATED WITH HELP FROM IMSA
The Eastland Disaster Historical Marker Rededication and 88th Anniversary Commemoration program was held on Thursday, July 24, in Chicago, near the site of the July 24, 1915, tragedy on the Chicago River (Wacker Drive between Clark and LaSalle). The Eastland disaster was one of the worst maritime tragedies in American history. More than 800 people died when the excursion steamer, filled with picnic-bound Western Electric Company employees and their families, rolled over in the river.
For years, the Eastland disaster was virtually unknown to the
people of Chicago and Illinois. In IMSA's early years, social science
teachers Bernard Hollister and Bill Stepien and IMSA students researched
the tragedy and were determined to ensure that it not remain a
small footnote in history. The original historical marker, which
was dedicated in June 1989, resulted from the efforts of Hollister,
Stepien and our students, primarily those in the Class of '90.
A number of IMSA staff and students attended the original dedication
ceremony in 1989.
Unfortunately, the marker was stolen several years ago and a temporary marker was placed until a permanent one was erected on July 24. The recent marker rededication program attracted a large crowd and a number of Chicago media. IMSA Vice President for Educational Programs and Services Dr. Connie Hatcher, a featured speaker at the rededication ceremony, said “The passion and perseverance of those few students, the caring guidance and commitment of Mr. Hollister and Mr. Stepien, the willing assistance of so many of you who shared your stories of this tragic event, came to fruition in the form of this marker that we re-commemorate today.”
For more information on the Eastland Disaster, visit www.eastlanddisaster.org.