John Wastak was born on December 23, 1886, in Chicago, Illinois. He tragically lost his life on July 24, 1915, when the Eastland capsized in the Chicago River.

A proud son, James Neubauer, shares the story of his dad, Anthony Neubauer, who saved lives on the day of the Eastland Disaster.

This issue of The Editorial, published by ATOZ Printing Co. in South Whitley, Indiana, focuses on the Eastland Disaster.

Discover the remarkable untold story of how Ann Smith’s grandfathers were connected to the 1915 Eastland Disaster. In ‘The Eastland Disaster: A Personal Connection Discovered,’ Ann uncovers hidden tales of heroism and family history, revealing the profound impact this tragedy had on her ancestors. Originally published in the Chicago Genealogist, this captivating article brings forgotten stories to light

Explore 'The Eastland,' a powerful poem by Carl Sandburg that captures the tragedy of Chicago's deadliest disaster. This rarely-discussed work offers a poignant glimpse into how one of America's most beloved poets memorialized the Eastland catastrophe, blending historical fact with lyrical emotion.

Step back in time with my curated photo album of Western Electric’s Hawthorne Works in Cicero. Explore a treasure trove of historic images that capture the spirit of innovation and community at one of the most iconic industrial sites of the 20th century. Click to dive into this visual journey!

Correcting the historical record of Ella Remy and her daughter Florence, victims of the Eastland Disaster. Discover the truth behind their misidentification, supported by original newspaper articles, photos, and death notices.

Michael Kennedy: The untold story of an Irish immigrant who served as a Chicago Police Officer and bravely responded to the Eastland Disaster. Discovered through a family history on FamilySearch.org, his legacy lives on through this remarkable account

CHICAGO, July 26, 1915. - Miss Lina Roseland of bast Forty- second St., an Eastland survivor,  told a thrilling story of being  taken from amidst a score of  corpses under one of the ship's  big plates that was cut out with electromagnetic drills by the rescuers. She was recovering today from her experience.

Reprint of an article attributed to Mary Bonevelle. “Although the maritime lessons learned through the disaster  are obsolete, the Eastland's true legacy is that it showed that the unexpected can occur even  when all conditions indicate otherwise. No one would have ever suspected that a ship preparing  to depart for a festive occasion on a warm July day would just "tip over" drowning hundreds.”

Eastland Disaster Postcard sent to Mabel Stenholm, Princeton, IL by her cousin Agnes. No mention of the Eastland Disaster in Agnes’ message!

Quote from Libby Klucina Hruby, Eastland Disaster Survivor.

Read this eye witness account of the Eastland Disaster written by Harlan E. Babcock, Chicago Herald, July 31, 1915

From the Far Corners of the Earth. Western Electric Company. (1927). Curious what's in store? Brace yourself for a wild ride through the phone-making world of a century ago! We're talking a treasure trove of materials - from fluffy cotton and cozy wool to shiny copper and sleek aluminum. Oh, and did I mention lead? Yep, that too! It's a material madness that'll make you see your old phone in a whole new light!

Eastland Disaster news from The Daily Graphic, London, UK, July 26, 1915. Reuter, now known as Reuters, is one of the world's largest and most established news agencies. It was founded in 1851 by Paul Julius Reuter in London. Here’s a brief overview of how Reuter would have been involved in disseminating news about the Eastland Disaster in 1915.

These amazing photos were snapped by the talented Jane Bungum during her June 2024 visit to the Eastland Disaster site in Chicago. Jane generously shared them with me, and I had a blast adding my creative touch to them using a few design tools. Enjoy!

As another anniversary of the Eastland Disaster approached, I felt compelled to assemble a family scrapbook honoring my immigrant great-grandparents' journey from Johnstown to Chicago. I collected family photos, along with other images, footage, and graphics from the turn of the 20th century. My own photos, taken in the late 1990s and early 2000s when I first discovered my family's deep Chicago roots and connection to the Eastland Disaster, were in rough shape and needed an update.

Rescue and recovery divers played a crucial role in the aftermath of the Eastland Disaster, as they were instrumental in locating and retrieving victims trapped in the capsized vessel. In 1915, diving methods, technologies, suits, and equipment were significantly less advanced than today's standards. Divers used bulky, cumbersome diving suits made of heavy rubberized fabric, often paired with brass helmets connected to surface air pumps via long hoses. Communication between divers and surface teams was rudimentary, typically relying on pull signals on the lifeline, as electronic communication devices were not yet available.

Miss Anna Hillman, one of the victims of the Eastland Disaster  was a former Hoboken girl.  About a year and a half ago she went to Chicago and took a position with the Western Electric Company, making her home with her aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Meike, of Chicago. Mr. Meike is also an employee at the Western Electric…

Another story from the Eastland Disaster. F.W. Willard’s quick thinking on July 24, 1915 saved over 20 people—with a rope. His heroism and professional accomplishments are a testament to his courage, dedication, and compassion.