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The Eastland Disaster: An Extraordinary Day in the Lives of Ordinary People (Adults)

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Learn the history and life stories of Chicago's SS Eastland passenger ship that rolled into the Chicago River on July 24, 1915.

Sisters Susan Decker and Barbara Decker Wachholz, granddaughters of survivor Borghild Aanstad and co-founders of the Eastland Disaster Historical Society, will share the history and life stories of Chicago's greatest loss-of-life tragedy. The SS Eastland was a passenger ship based in Chicago. On July 24, 1915, before the Eastland cast off from the wharf area near the Clark Street Bridge, it rolled into the Chicago River with over 2,500 passengers and crew members. In just minutes, 844 people lost their lives, including 22 entire families. This presentation will include compelling first-hand narratives, a video interview of ABC's Ron Magers interviewing several survivors, and dozens of photographs.

By attending one of the Library programs, you consent to be photographed or recorded. These images and recordings may be used for promotional materials such as the Library's website, social media, and newsletters. Please inform a staff member if you do not wish to be photographed or recorded.

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