History in Washington Park

The historic station and overpass were designated with landmark status on December 12, 2001. 

On May 25, 1950, a Chicago streetcar (popularly known as a “Green Hornet” due to its green-and-cream color scheme and its sleek design) was heading south along State Street when it suddenly veered into the backside of an oncoming gasoline tanker just north of 63rd Street, triggering a massive explosion that claimed the lives of 33 or 34 passengers (reports differ), injured many others, and destroyed five buildings.  The tragedy was set in motion by heavy rains the previous day.  The underpass beneath the viaduct at 63rd Street became flooded, creating a hazard for electric streetcars.  To avoid danger (ironically enough), the southbound trains were being diverted east by a “switch” on the tracks, just before they reached the underpass.  The conductor (or “motorman”) of this particular streetcar was traveling too fast as he headed south on State Street, and he failed to notice a flagman waving feverishly in an effort to get his attention.  As a result, the streetcar cruised right into the switch and abruptly lurched to the east, throwing scores of passengers to the floor, broadsiding the rear tank of a gasoline truck, and triggering a deadly explosion.  A number of passengers escaped through a rear window with assistance from bystanders, but the exit doors were jammed shut, and the remaining commuters were charred beyond recognition.  The motorman, who had a lengthy history of citations for driving with excessive speed, was among the dead.