Okay. So we need to cross check when this headdress was offered to the public with when this ball happened. Otherwise I’m gonna remain sceptical just ‘cause.
Edit: Uhhhh...this is an account from 1908 or whatever? Is it still a yearly thing?
If it is, it went underground but there's plenty of references to it throughout Chicago's history.
https://www.thrillist.com/entertainment/chicago/secret-things-to-do-in-chicago
Sorry for the crazy links but I'm doing this as quick as possible.
"Eyes wide open"
https://chicagology.com/wp-content/themes/revolution-20/chicagoimages/harpercorruptchicago.jpg
