Historian Jim Gibbons presents a powerful program on the 1958 Our Lady of the Angels school fire, honoring the victims and sharing survivor stories through deep research and heartfelt storytelling.
Join historian and speaker Jim Gibbons for a powerful and moving presentation on the tragic 1958 fire at Our Lady of the Angels School in Chicago—a disaster that claimed the lives of 92 children and three nuns. Inspired by the book To Sleep with the Angels, Gibbons began a personal and passionate journey of research after discovering that 25 of the victims were buried near his own parents at Queen of Heaven Cemetery. This connection led him to study the event in depth and connect with survivors to better understand and share their stories.
In this presentation, Gibbons will detail the events of the fire, the aftermath, and its lasting impact on fire safety nationwide. He will also honor the memory of 10-year-old Margaret (“Peggy”) Anne Sansonetti, who died of smoke inhalation during the tragedy.
Known for his captivating delivery and deep knowledge of history, Jim has presented over 120 programs to audiences across the country in libraries, schools, retirement communities, and more. His work has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, and various radio shows. His mission is to show how understanding history can help us create a better future, driven by his motto: “Life is no mystery when you know your history.”
Armchair Travels is generously funded with a gift from the Rutherford Family Trust.
From the south: Go north on Green Bay Road. Turn left on Wilmette Ave. Turn right on Park Ave. Library is located on the corner of Wilmette Ave. and Park Ave. Parking lot is on the north side of the building.
From the north: Go south on Green Bay Road. Turn right on Wilmette Ave. Turn right on Park Ave. Library is located on the corner of Wilmette Ave. and Park Ave. Parking lot is on the north side of the building.
From I-94 (Edens Expressway):from the South - exit at Lake Ave. East. Go east on Lake Ave. a little over 2 miles. Turn right on Park Ave. • from the North - exit at Rt. 41/Skokie Blvd. Turn left (east) on Lake Ave. Go east on Lake Ave. a little over 2 miles. Turn right on Park Ave.
Mass transit options include CTA, Metra, and Pace.
