Think & Drink: The Eastland Story @ WMM
In 1915, the SS Eastland was docked in the Chicago River, filled with thousands of Western Electric employees headed for a company picnic. In a matter of minutes, she capsized while still tied to the dock, resulting in the deaths of 844 people—the greatest loss of life in a single shipwreck in Great Lakes history.
Todd Gordon takes listeners on a deep dive into the service and final moments of this steamer. It's also an amazing journey through the “six degrees of separation” that connect the Eastland to some of the most famed figures and events in American history.
Gordon is the president of the Wisconsin Marine Historical Society and serves on the Advisory Council for the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary.
Admission is free. Limited bar opens at 6. Registration to see a live stream also available.
