John T. Sabol is a Cleveland native, writer, and historian who has published several church histories and genealogical articles. Lisa A. Alzo, a freelance writer, instructor, and lecturer, is the author of six books and numerous magazine articles and serves on the board of directors for the Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International.
Title: New books recall the accordion days of Cleveland Czechs and
Slovaks Author: Robert L. Smith Pubisher: The Plain Dealer Date:
12/3/09
John Sabol's publisher suggested he try to capture Cleveland's
Czech and Slovak communities in a single book, but the Seven Hills
historian knew better.
The two peoples came in separate waves and didn't do much mixing
once they got here. Czechs and Slovaks built their own churches,
ethnic halls and traditions, despite the unity portrayed by the
former Czechoslovakia.
They did not give up on that identity, said Sabol, a former
reporter and editor for the Cleveland Press. Cleveland was not so
much a melting pot but an area of interesting enclaves.
Arcadia Publishing conceded and Sabol worked with Ithaca, N.Y.
writer Lisa Alzo to complete two books, Cleveland Czechs and
Cleveland Slovaks, for its Image of America series.
The slim volumes of black and white photographs recount a time when
there was no lack of places providing good accordion lessons along
Broadway Avenue. But the books also point out a lasting legacy.
From the Czech community came Mayor Ralph Perk, Our Lady of Lourdes
Church and the landmark Bohemian National Hall. From the Slovak
community emerged Paul Newman, Benedictine High School and St.
Andrew Abbey.
The people are still strong, said Sabol. If you go to a Slovak
event, they have good turnouts. I went to the Czech Christmas fair
at the Bohemian National Hall. It was jammed.
Both books are available at local booksellers or through
www.arcadiapublishing.com.
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