Browse Interviews

This oral history interview with Bob Leech, conducted on March 21, 2003, offers a vivid account of his life growing up in the Tremont area of Cleveland from the early 1950s to the 1960s. Leech reflects on his childhood experiences living in the Valley View Homes projects, emphasizing the strong sense of community despite the pervasive poverty. He recounts the challenges of growing up in a low-income neighborhood, the influence of local sports and recreation programs, and the impact of the…

This oral history interview with Bernard Sokolowski, conducted on October 15, 2003, captures his reflections on life and business in Tremont, Cleveland. Sokolowski discusses his role as the third-generation owner of Sokolowski’s University Inn, a family-operated restaurant established in 1923. He provides insights into the evolution of Tremont, noting the neighborhood's shift from a working-class, family-oriented community to one dominated by single professionals and gentrification. Sokolowski…

This oral history interview with Eddy Bugala, conducted by Charles McCandlish on February 22, 2003, provides a detailed account of Bugala’s experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Bugala shares memories of his parents’ immigration from Poland in the early 20th century, their settlement in Cleveland, and the cultural dynamics of the diverse community they joined. He discusses the impact of the construction of the freeway on the neighborhood, including the…

This oral history interview with Edmund Ziemba, conducted by Dan Madigan on November 4, 2003, captures Ziemba's reflections on his childhood and upbringing in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Ziemba shares vivid memories of growing up in a close-knit, predominantly Eastern European community during the mid-20th century, highlighting the strong bonds formed through shared cultural traditions, community activities, and a mutual respect for neighbors. He discusses the socioeconomic…

This oral history interview with Edmund Ziemba, conducted on March 7, 2003, by Christine Cleary, offers a reflective account of Ziemba's early life in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, during the mid-20th century. Born in 1933, Ziemba shares vivid memories of his childhood, the close-knit community, and the cultural traditions of the predominantly Polish neighborhood. He discusses his family's history, including his grandfather's immigration from Poland and establishment of a bar and…

In this oral history interview, Robert Ceccarelli reflects on his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, from the 1950s to the early 1970s. He discusses the strong ethnic character of the community, highlighting the mix of Polish, Greek, and Ukrainian families and their contributions to the neighborhood’s cultural fabric. Ceccarelli describes daily life in Tremont, emphasizing the importance of local churches, community events, and the close-knit nature of the…

The oral history interview with Agnes Kasper reveals her deep connection to the Tremont neighborhood in Cleveland, where she has lived for many years. Kasper discusses her efforts to improve and restore properties in the area, her involvement in community activities, and the changes she has witnessed over time, including the influx of new residents and businesses. She shares her experiences with neighborhood safety, the impact of gang activities, and her commitment to creating a supportive and…

Ruth Ketteringham, a local historian, discusses her family’s long connection to the area, noting that her father attended Tremont School and West High, graduating in 1896. She reminisces about her grandparents’ residence, which offered a picturesque view of the Cuyahoga Valley, and shares insights into her life, including her work with county archives and interactions with historical figures. Ruth, born in 1906 and aged 96 at the time of the interview, describes the impact of significant events…

Artist and educator Anthony Eterovich recounts his time as both a student and teacher at Lincoln High School, highlighting the neighborhood's longstanding yet evolving art community. He reflects on the impact of local art initiatives and influential figures, on his development, and the broader community. The interview delves into Eterovich's personal journey, the cultural dynamics of Tremont, and the transition of the neighborhood into a vibrant center for emerging artists and upscale…

This oral history interview with Dorothy Winovich, conducted on October 15, 2003, explores her experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, particularly during the 1940s and 1950s. Winovich reflects on the close-knit community, the strong cultural and educational influence of Lincoln High School, and the neighborhood’s deep ties to local churches and the steel industry. She describes the vibrant social life centered around neighborhood events, playgrounds, and local…

This oral history interview with Edward Mendyka, conducted by Garrick E. Lipscomb on February 22, 2003, offers a comprehensive account of Mendyka’s life growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Mendyka discusses his family's Polish immigrant roots, his father's long career in the steel mills, and his mother’s work to support the family during and after the Great Depression. He shares vivid memories of the ethnic traditions that shaped his childhood, including religious customs,…

Efty Simakis shares her memories of growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Simakis, a Greek immigrant who moved to Tremont at the age of four, discusses her experiences living in the projects, the strong sense of community, and the diverse population that inhabited the area during her childhood. She reflects on the challenges her family faced as immigrants, the influence of the Greek community, and her personal journey through education and work. The interview also touches on…

Elizabeth Hallal recounts her life growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Hallal describes her family's migration to Tremont in 1919, highlighting their Russian and Slovak heritage. She provides detailed memories of her childhood on Clarence Court, including the close-knit community, the ethnic diversity, and the impact of urban development projects like the construction of Interstate 490, which led to the demolition of her home. Hallal also reflects on her experiences during…

Elizabeth Hallal reflects on her experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Hallal discusses her family's history, including their immigration to the United States and settlement in Tremont in 1919. She shares memories of her childhood during the Great Depression, her education at Tremont School and Lincoln High School, and her involvement in community activities. Hallal also describes the impact of World War II on her life, including her work with the Navy and the…

This oral history interview, conducted on February 22, 2003, features Emily Wish and Edward Mendyka, who share their memories of growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Both discuss their families' immigration to the United States in the early 20th century and the impact of the Great Depression on their lives. They reflect on the strong sense of community, local traditions, and the ethnic diversity that characterized the South Side, where they spent most of their lives. The…

Erich Hooper discusses his family's move to Tremont in the early 1960s and shares memories of his childhood, including the influence of sports programs and the ethnic diversity of the community. He describes the social dynamics, racial tensions, and changes in the neighborhood over the decades, highlighting the impact of urban development, such as the construction of highways and new housing projects. Hooper also touches on his personal achievements, including his work in the restaurant industry…

Erich Hooper shares his experiences growing up and living in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Hooper reflects on his involvement in various sports programs, particularly through the Cleveland Recreation Department, and discusses the impact these activities had on his development and community relations. He describes the cultural diversity of Tremont, the challenges of racial tensions, and the neighborhood's transformation over the years. Hooper also touches on his work experiences,…

This oral history interview with Eugene Bahniuk, conducted by Molly Nieser on November 5, 2003, captures Bahniuk's recollections of his childhood and early adulthood, focusing on his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, during the Great Depression. Bahniuk discusses his family's move to Tremont in 1933 due to his father's job loss, their life in the neighborhood, and his schooling, which he recalls fondly for its progressive teaching methods. He also reflects on…

Eugene Bahniuk provides a detailed account of his childhood and young adulthood in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Bahniuk recounts his early memories of the neighborhood, the diverse community, and the various activities he and his friends engaged in, from playing in Lincoln Park to exploring the flats. He reflects on his experiences at local schools, his involvement in sports and social clubs, and his work at his father's gas station. Bahniuk also discusses the impact of World War…

Father Joseph Hilinski discusses his family's history, including their immigration from Poland, and their settling in Tremont due to job opportunities and the presence of a Polish-speaking church. He reflects on the neighborhood's sense of community, the impact of industrial pollution, and the changes in the area over time, including the decline in the 1970s and the subsequent revitalization. The interview also touches on his personal experiences with religion, local schools, and the evolving…

The oral history interview with Father Joseph McNulty, conducted on October 12, 2003, captures his reflections on the events of September 11, 2001, and their impact on both his personal experiences and the community of Tremont, Cleveland. Father McNulty describes witnessing the attacks while attending a Catholic Charities Conference in Newark, New Jersey, and discusses the subsequent outpouring of support and solidarity within the Tremont community, particularly among local churches. He…

This oral history interview with Father Ralph Bodziony, conducted by Garrick E. Lipscomb on February 20, 2003, provides a detailed account of Father Bodziony's experiences serving as a priest and later as pastor in Tremont from 1969 to 2000. Father Bodziony reflects on the significant changes in the neighborhood during his tenure, including the challenges posed by the city's infrastructure, changes in parish demographics, and the broader social transformations affecting the community. He…

Frank Boulton shares his experiences growing up in the Tremont area of Cleveland, Ohio, starting from his birth in 1947. The interview covers a broad range of topics including Boulton's family life, his childhood memories, the ethnic diversity of the neighborhood, and his observations of the social and economic changes in Tremont over several decades. Boulton also discusses his experiences during his service in the United States Air Force, his family's relocation to the suburbs, and his…

The oral history interview with Gary Huspaska, conducted on October 15, 2003, covers his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Huspaska discusses his Slovak heritage, his family’s history in the area, and his memories of the local community, including ethnic divisions, neighborhood landmarks, and his involvement in local institutions like schools and churches. He also touches on his experiences working at NASA, his service in the U.S. Army during the early 1960s,…

This oral history interview with Gene Tracy, conducted on October 29, 2003, by Michelle Burk, explores Tracy's experiences and observations of the Tremont neighborhood in Cleveland, Ohio. Tracy discusses his long-term familiarity with the area, the changes brought by gentrification, and the impact on the local artist community. He reflects on the transformation of Tremont from a vibrant, diverse neighborhood into one increasingly dominated by wealthier new residents and developers, leading to…

This oral history interview with George Chandick, conducted on April 4, 2003, captures his recollections as a former mayor of Seven Hills and a long-time educator at Tremont School. Chandick discusses the development and operation of the Tremont Community Center, emphasizing its pivotal role in the community from the 1950s through the 1970s. He provides a detailed account of the center's activities, which served hundreds of children and teenagers daily, and highlights the demographic changes in…

This oral history interview with Irene Pavlyshyn, conducted on October 30, 2003, captures her recollections of growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Pavlyshyn discusses her childhood experiences, highlighting the close-knit community, the diversity of nationalities, and the influence of her Ukrainian heritage. She reflects on the changes in the neighborhood over time, the impact of urban development, and her family's involvement in the local economy through their grocery…

This oral history interview, conducted on February 22, 2003, with James and Angela Gantose, offers a detailed recollection of life in the Tremont area of Cleveland, Ohio, during the early to mid-20th century. James Gantose discusses his upbringing in a multi-ethnic neighborhood, emphasizing the diverse cultural and religious communities that coexisted on W 14th Street. The interview covers various aspects of daily life, including the significance of local churches, ethnic traditions,…

This oral history interview, conducted on March 24, 2003, in North Olmsted, Ohio, features Joseph and Gloria Hadbavny, who recount their memories of life in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. The interview covers a range of topics, including the ethnic diversity of the Tremont area, community interactions, and cultural practices. Gloria shares vivid recollections of childhood experiences, holiday traditions, and the social dynamics of the neighborhood, while Joseph discusses his family's…

This oral history interview, conducted on September 29, 2003, features Joseph Cimperman, a Cleveland City Councilman representing Ward 13, who shares his experiences and insights related to the Tremont neighborhood in Cleveland, Ohio. Interviewed by Patricia Haller for the Tremont Oral History Project, Cimperman discusses his upbringing in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood, his involvement in the Tremont community, and his motivations for entering public service. The interview covers a range…

This oral history interview, conducted on March 31, 2003, features Joseph Santiago, Ward 14 Councilman and a resident of Tremont. Santiago reflects on his childhood experiences growing up in Tremont, highlighting the strong sense of community, family values, and the challenges faced by the neighborhood, including economic hardships and urban changes. He discusses his parents' immigrant background, his work experiences, and the impact of local and national events on his life. Santiago also…

This oral history interview, conducted on October 28, 2003, features Ward 14 Councilman Joe Santiago, who discusses his family’s migration from Puerto Rico to Tremont, Ohio in the 1950s, seeking employment in the region's industrial sector. Santiago details the ethnic composition and industrial growth of Tremont, emphasizing the impact of factory work and the construction of the freeway on the community’s development. He reflects on the cultural diversity of Tremont, the role of block clubs in…

Joseph Vargo, a former resident of Tremont, discusses his childhood during the Great Depression, his Slovak heritage, and the cultural and social life in Tremont, including details about local churches, schools, and recreational spots. He reflects on the changes in the neighborhood over time, including the impact of migration, economic shifts, and freeway construction on the community's structure and demographics. Vargo also recounts memories of local traditions, businesses, and landmarks,…

This oral history interview explores Karl Anderson's experiences and memories connected to the Tremont area during the mid-20th century. Karl discusses his involvement in the community, particularly through experiences at Lincoln Park and his participation in local clubs at Merrick House. He reflects on the diverse ethnic backgrounds of Tremont residents, the social dynamics, and the neighborhood's evolution over time. The interview also touches on his experiences in sports, his observations on…

This oral history interview with Lottie Pilat and Jeannette Kolis explores the experiences of long-time Tremont residents. The interview delves into their memories of the area, focusing on changes in the community brought on by urban development, including the construction of freeways that displaced many residents. Pilat and Kolis discuss the ethnic diversity of the neighborhood, their family's businesses, the impact of the freeway on local commerce and social life, and their views on the…

Marianne Ludwig describes her decision to move to Tremont, motivated by a desire to live in a historic yet revitalized area, and her involvement in the community, including her role in the North of Literary Block Club. She reflects on her background, including her German heritage and upbringing in Illinois, and shares her views on the challenges and changes in the Tremont neighborhood, particularly concerning historic preservation, urban development, and community engagement. Ludwig also touches…

This oral history interview with Marie Gubics offers a detailed account of her early life and experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Gubics reflects on her childhood memories, including her schooling, family life, and the vibrant community activities centered around local churches and social gatherings. She describes the impact of immigration on her family, her experiences during the Great Depression, and the community's response to the construction of the inner…

This oral history interview with Mary Verbeke provides a detailed account of her experiences growing up and living in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Mary discusses her early childhood memories, her family's immigration from Europe, and their settlement in Tremont in 1927. She reflects on her education, the cultural and linguistic environment of her community, and her work life, including her job in an insurance company downtown. Mary shares insights into her family traditions,…

The oral history interview with Mollie Alstott covers her childhood experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, during the early to mid-20th century. Mollie recounts her family's immigration from Austria-Hungary before World War I and their settlement in Tremont, where they became active members of the Ukrainian community. She describes her upbringing, which included attending Ukrainian school, participating in cultural and religious activities, and experiencing the…

This oral history interview with Mollie Alstott provides a detailed account of her childhood and early adulthood experiences in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. Alstott discusses the close-knit and diverse community in which she grew up, highlighting the various nationalities that coexisted and the importance of church and social activities in her life. She reflects on the impact of the Great Depression on her family and community, noting how her father's confectionery store played a role…

In this oral history interview, Nancy Wendell discusses her family’s German and Prussian ancestry, their immigration to the United States, and their settlement in the Tremont area of Cleveland. She reflects on the lives and work of her ancestors, who were primarily involved in the railroad industry and tavern ownership, and shares her efforts in genealogical research to uncover more about her family’s past. Wendell also speaks about her personal connections to Tremont, despite not having lived…

The oral history interview with Olga Naugle captures her memories and experiences growing up in the Tremont area of Cleveland, Ohio, during the early 20th century. Olga recounts her family's Ukrainian heritage, the challenges of the Great Depression, and the cultural life in her neighborhood, emphasizing the vibrant community centered around Professor Avenue. She discusses her education, work, and the impact of World War II on her life, including her marriage during the war. The interview also…

The oral history interview with Olga and Paul Naugle provides a detailed account of their experiences growing up during the Great Depression and their memories of life in Cleveland, Ohio. Olga recalls the challenges of living through the Depression, including the scarcity of food and the various ways their families made ends meet, such as making homemade potato chips and doughnuts. She describes entertainment activities, such as roller skating, attending the local theater, and participating in…

Pricilla Treska discusses her nearly three decades of living in Tremont, focusing on her experiences raising a large family in the neighborhood. She reflects on the decision to move to Tremont, influenced by the diversity and community at St. Augustine Church, and describes her initial concerns about safety, which eased over time. Treska shares her family's involvement in local schools, recreational activities, and church-sponsored events. She also comments on the changes in Tremont,…

In this oral history interview, Ray Matyshyn reflects on his upbringing in the Tremont area of Cleveland, Ohio, during the 1940s and 1950s. He discusses his childhood experiences, including outdoor activities such as fishing and playing sports, as well as the close-knit, ethnically diverse community composed primarily of Eastern Europeans. Matyshyn recounts the cultural and religious influences in his family, the strong work ethic of the residents, and the pride they took in maintaining their…

The oral history interview with Robert Ceccarelli captures his memories and experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Ceccarelli describes his family's modest home, neighborhood dynamics, and the prevalent culture of shared meals and communal living. He reflects on the ethnic diversity of the area, the common practice of renting out homes, and the strong sense of community. Ceccarelli also discusses his involvement in music during his adolescence, the cultural…

The oral history interview with Sister Audrey Koch provides a detailed account of her experiences and contributions within the Catholic Church, particularly her work at St. Augustine’s Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Sister Koch discusses her long career in education and social services, emphasizing her involvement in various community outreach programs aimed at supporting the marginalized, including the homeless, the hungry, immigrants, and those with disabilities. She reflects on the social…

This oral history interview with Sister Corita Ambro covers her extensive work at St. Augustine's Church in Cleveland, beginning with her arrival in 1970. Sister Corita discusses her role in pastoral care, particularly her work with the deaf, blind, mentally ill, and physically disabled communities. She describes the transformation of the church into a hub for these marginalized groups and the development of a vibrant Hunger Center that provides meals and services daily. The interview highlights…

This oral history interview with Vic Hanchuk covers his memories of growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland from the 1930s to the 1950s. Hanchuk provides detailed recollections of his family’s immigrant background, the ethnic diversity of the community, and the challenges of life in a blue-collar, working-class environment. He discusses the impact of the steel mills, the presence of organized crime, and the vibrant social fabric characterized by family values, local traditions, and…

Virginia Medvec recounts her early life growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. She discusses her childhood memories, including the strong sense of community, family traditions, and the cultural influences of the Russian and Eastern European immigrant populations in the area. Medvec reflects on her experiences in school, the significance of Sundays and church activities, and the daily life of her family during the 1930s and 1940s. She also touches on the changes in the Tremont…