1. In 1821, the first land office was opened in Chicago, Illinois. This enabled settlers to purchase land in the area, which helped to spur the growth of the city.

2. On August 10, 1871, a major fire broke out in Chicago that destroyed much of the city. The fire started in a barn on the city's southwest side and quickly spread due to high winds and the use of wood as a major building material. It is estimated that over 300 people died and 100,000 were left homeless as a result of the fire.

3. In 1893, the Columbia Yacht Club was founded in Chicago. The club is still in operation today and is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in the country.

4. August 10, 1959, marked the opening of Comiskey Park in Chicago. The stadium was home to the Chicago White Sox for over 80 years and hosted many historic events, including the infamous Disco Demolition Night in 1979.

5. On August 10, 1987, a tornado struck Oak Lawn, Illinois, killing 36 people and causing over $100 million in damages. The tornado was one of the deadliest in Illinois history, and prompted many changes in the way that tornado warnings and alerts are issued in the state.