Valentine’s Day 2026 was a truly memorable day at the Cleveland Hungarian Heritage Society Museum. Our guest speaker, Tom Kaschalk, a proud Clevelander whose roots run deep on the city’s Southeast Side, delivered a captivating and richly personal presentation. Tom’s story is closely intertwined with Cleveland’s Hungarian community. Three of his four great-grandparents emmigrated from Hungary to the United States in the late nineteenth century, and that heritage added a meaningful Hungarian dimension to his talk. His deep family ties to the Buckeye and Union-Miles neighborhoods enriched his perspective, making the evening especially engaging for our audience.
Drawing from rare historical photographs and detailed maps, Tom illustrated the remarkable density of taverns and bars that once defined the Buckeye area and many neighborhoods of Cleveland. These establishments were more than watering holes — they were vibrant centers of social life, where politicians, musicians, athletes, and even Hollywood stars gathered. Through colorful anecdotes, Tom recounted the mysteries, scandals, and even murders that unfolded within their walls, bringing a fascinating chapter of Cleveland’s history vividly to life.
Having grown up in the Union-Miles neighborhood at East 93rd and Union, and later in Slavic Village, Tom experienced much of this culture firsthand. His stories were riveting.
Following the lecture, guests enjoyed excellent beer from Immigrant Son Brewery and lingered in the museum — networking, reminiscing, and socializing much as Clevelanders did in the taverns of old. Even an hour after the presentation concluded, people remained; they were engaged in lively conversation and fellowship.
It was a joy to witness and experience — an evening that beautifully honored Cleveland’s Hungarian heritage and the enduring spirit of our community.
Tom Kaschalk’s book: Cleveland’s Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History is a fascinating read!
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