Today in Chicago History: Chicago Bears defeat NFL all-stars in New York City

News Room

Here’s a look back at what happened in the Chicago area on Jan. 4, according to the Tribune’s archives.

Is an important event missing from this date? Email us.

Weather records (from the National Weather Service, Chicago)

  • High temperature: 64 degrees (1997)
  • Low temperature: Minus 14 degrees (1884)
  • Precipitation: 1.2 inches (1993)
  • Snowfall: 5.6 inches (2004)

1942: The Chicago Bears — who won the 1941 championship — defeated a team of NFL all-stars 35-24 on a “dreary, chilly afternoon” at the Polo Grounds in New York City. It was the Bears’ 19th victory in 20 games. The game raised more than $51,000 (or more than $1 million in today’s dollars) for the Naval Relief Society.

1982: Chicago Bears coach Neill Armstrong was fired after a 6-10 record during the 1981 season.

Armstrong, who previously coached Edmonton in the Canadian Football League, made just one playoff appearance as Bears coach.

Who topped Halas’ list for the team’s next head coach? Mike Ditka.

Chicago Bears have had 18 head coaches. Here’s a look at how past coaches fared — and when they left the franchise.

Want more vintage Chicago?

Subscribe to the free Vintage Chicago Tribune newsletter, join our Chicagoland history Facebook group and follow us on Instagram for more from Chicago’s past.

Have an idea for Vintage Chicago Tribune? Share it with Kori Rumore and Marianne Mather at krumore@chicagotribune.com and mmather@chicagotribune.com

Related posts