Cancelled Speech Causes Riots

On This Day | Posted by: Tedd Long | 03/30/2026

1919: Thousands of supporters of Eugene V. Debs stormed Memorial Hall where the controversial Socialist leader was to speak. His speech was banned by city officials and a riot followed. The clash ended with 75 protesters going to jail.

1921: Several businessmen at a shop on Ontario Street gathered to listen to a live concert from Pittsburgh that was transmitted by what was called a "wireless telephone" — radio as we know it today. The Toledo News Bee predicts that this new instrument may become popular in the future.

For more Toledo history, visit www.holytoledohistory.com.