My Cleveland History

Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History
2026-01-06 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Cuyahoga County Public Library- Fairview Branch, 21255 Lorain Road, Fairview Park, OH, 44126, United States
This presentation brings Cleveland’s rich tavern history to life through rare photographs, untold stories and colorful characters. From immigrant-owned saloons to iconic neighborhood bars, it’s a journey through the city’s cultural heart and working-class spirit, as documented in presenter Tom Kaschalk‘s book Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.

Tom Kaschalk is a lifelong Clevelander and historical researcher who uncovers the city’s past by solving forgotten mysteries of neighborhoods, families and everyday life. His work brings to life the people and places that shaped Cleveland’s cultural heart.
Book sales and signing will follow the event.

Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History
2025-12-10 14:00 - 15:00 | Cuyahoga County Public Library- Olmstead Falls, 8100 Mapleway Dr, Olmstead Falls, 44138, United States
https://attend.cuyahogalibrary.org/event/14519176

Unlocking Cleveland Stories: A Practical Guide to the Cuyahoga County Archives
2025-12-01 19:00 - 20:30 | Independence Civic Center, 6363 Selig Boulevard, Independence, OH, 44131, United States
If your family touched Cuyahoga County, the Archives likely holds pieces of their story. In this presentation, I’ll walk through what’s available, where to find it, and how to read it like an investigator.
What we’ll cover

Probate & estates: wills, guardianships, and how to trace property and relationships

Land & taxes: Photos of your childhood home, deeds, tax duplicates, and maps/plats to pinpoint homes and businesses

Court & citizenship: dockets, naturalization records, and name/spelling pitfalls

Vital & special collections: marriage records, coroner’s case files, and more

Arrest Cards: Looking to unravel a family rumor? and much more………

2025 Czech Holiday Fair
2025-11-08 10:00 - 15:00 | Bohemian National Hall, 4939 Broadway Ave, Cleveland,, 44127, United States
Meet author, Tom Kaschalk, at his table at the 2025 Czech Holiday Fair.
Tom will have copies of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History available as well as a display of historic tavern images.
The Czech Holiday Fair also features:

Imported Czech & Slovak Items
Czech Beer for Sale
Traditional Dinners & Finger Foods
Bake Sale
Cash bars
Raffles
Vendors

Buckeye Book Fair 2025
2025-11-01 09:30 - 16:00 | Greystone Event Center, 50 Riffle Road, Wooster, 44691, United States
Join me at the Buckeye Book Fair
A pioneering literary institution that kick-started Ohio’s love affair with literature. Founded in the 1980s, the Buckeye Book Fair has not only celebrated Ohio’s rich literary heritage but has set a benchmark for book fairs across the state and, quite possibly, the nation.
This event has become a beloved tradition that extends far beyond books. The Buckeye Book Fair is not just a state treasure; it has become a national literary phenomenon. It has drawn New York Times Bestselling illustrators like Richard Cowdrey and award-winning authors Loren Long, Linda Castillo, and Amanda Flower, making it the undisputed family reunion of the literature community. From fiction to non-fiction, children’s books to young adult novels, the Buckeye Book Fair offers something for readers of all ages and interests. It serves as a platform for both established authors and emerging talents, embodying the spirit of Ohio’s vibrant literary community.

Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns
2025-10-23 09:00 - 12:00 | Cleveland Public Library Main, 325 Superior Ave, Cleveland, 44114, United States
Join me at the Cleveland Public Library’s Golden Gala where I’ll be presenting two sessions on my book, Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History. Together we’ll explore the stories of the city’s corner bars—how they shaped neighborhoods, served as gathering places for immigrant communities, and became landmarks of Cleveland’s social life. From gritty saloons to beloved family-run taverns, these spaces reflect the spirit, struggles, and resilience of Clevelanders across generations.

Polish Genealogy Society of Greater Cleveland
2025-10-07 17:30 - 20:00 | OH
Save the date. Additional details forthcoming.
Join us for a spirited evening of stories, rare photos, local lore, and a toast to Cleveland’s barroom past.
Featuring, Tom Kaschalk, the author of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.
Prepare for a fascinating virtual historical stroll through Cleveland, where we’ll explore the sites of some of the city’s most legendary and iconic taverns. We’ll uncover the compelling stories and colorful characters that shaped these vital neighborhood gathering spots over the decades, gaining insight into their crucial role in Cleveland’s social and cultural evolution.
While many of these historic establishments are no longer standing, their legacies deeply resonate within the city’s collective memory. This event is perfect for history enthusiasts, beer aficionados, and anyone seeking a unique and engaging way to experience Cleveland’s vibrant past and honor the enduring stories of its beloved neighborhood spaces. Don’t miss this unique pub crawl through the heart of Cleveland’s rich tavern history!

Rare photographs of historic Cleveland bars (inside & out)
Stories of legendary saloonkeepers and Prohibition rebels
Taverns as hubs of immigration, politics, and music
Focus on the Broadway area taverns
Wild tales: murders and mysteries
Family-run bars that built communities from the ground up
A chance to share your own barroom memories

Old Brooklyn Historical Society
2025-09-12 19:00 - 21:00 | OH
Save the Date! Additional details forthcoming.
Join us for a spirited evening of stories, rare photos, local lore, and a toast to Cleveland’s barroom past.
Featuring, Tom Kaschalk, the author of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.
Prepare for a fascinating virtual historical stroll through Cleveland, where we’ll explore the sites of some of the city’s most legendary and iconic taverns. We’ll uncover the compelling stories and colorful characters that shaped these vital neighborhood gathering spots over the decades, gaining insight into their crucial role in Cleveland’s social and cultural evolution.
While many of these historic establishments are no longer standing, their legacies deeply resonate within the city’s collective memory. This event is perfect for history enthusiasts, beer aficionados, and anyone seeking a unique and engaging way to experience Cleveland’s vibrant past and honor the enduring stories of its beloved neighborhood spaces. Don’t miss this unique pub crawl through the heart of Cleveland’s rich tavern history!

Rare photographs of historic Cleveland bars (inside & out)
Stories of legendary saloonkeepers and Prohibition rebels
Taverns as hubs of immigration, politics, and music
Focus on the Broadway area taverns
Wild tales: murders and mysteries
Family-run bars that built communities from the ground up
A chance to share your own barroom memories

The Irish American Club - East Side
2025-09-11 18:30 - 20:30 | Irish American Club- East Side, 22770 Lakeshore Blvd, Euclid, OH, 44123, United States
Cleveland’s Neighborhood Taverns: Where History Meets the BarstoolJoin author and historian Tom Kaschalk for a lively and visually rich presentation exploring the hidden stories behind Cleveland’s neighborhood taverns. From 19th-century saloons to postwar corner bars, Tom shares tales of immigration, community, culture, and survival—one pint at a time.
With historic photos, surprising characters, and a touch of humor, this talk connects the past to the present, revealing how taverns shaped the social life of Cleveland’s diverse neighborhoods.

Garfield Heights Historical Society
2025-08-13 08:00 - 17:00 | Garfield Heights Historical Society, 5405 Turney Rd, Garfield Heights, OH, 4412, United States
Join us for a spirited evening of stories, rare photos, local lore, and a toast to Cleveland’s barroom past.
Featuring, Tom Kaschalk, the author of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.
Prepare for a fascinating virtual historical stroll through Cleveland, where we’ll explore the sites of some of the city’s most legendary and iconic taverns. We’ll uncover the compelling stories and colorful characters that shaped these vital neighborhood gathering spots over the decades, gaining insight into their crucial role in Cleveland’s social and cultural evolution.
While many of these historic establishments are no longer standing, their legacies deeply resonate within the city’s collective memory. This event is perfect for history enthusiasts, beer aficionados, and anyone seeking a unique and engaging way to experience Cleveland’s vibrant past and honor the enduring stories of its beloved neighborhood spaces. Don’t miss this unique pub crawl through the heart of Cleveland’s rich tavern history!

Rare photographs of historic Cleveland bars (inside & out)
Stories of legendary saloonkeepers and Prohibition rebels
Taverns as hubs of immigration, politics, and music
Focus on the Broadway area taverns
Wild tales: murders and mysteries
Family-run bars that built communities from the ground up
A chance to share your own barroom memories

Happy Dog - Cleveland’s Barroom Past
2025-08-07 19:00 - 21:00 | Happy Dog, 5801 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, OH, 44102, United States

West Park Historical Society
2025-08-06 18:00 - 20:00 | P.J McIntyre’s, 17119 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH, 44111, United States
This is an event sponsored by the West Park Historical Society.
Join us for a spirited evening of stories, rare photos, local lore, and a toast to Cleveland’s barroom past.
Featuring, Tom Kaschalk, the author of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.
Prepare for a fascinating virtual historical stroll through Cleveland, where we’ll explore the sites of some of the city’s most legendary and iconic taverns. We’ll uncover the compelling stories and colorful characters that shaped these vital neighborhood gathering spots over the decades, gaining insight into their crucial role in Cleveland’s social and cultural evolution.
While many of these historic establishments are no longer standing, their legacies deeply resonate within the city’s collective memory. This event is perfect for history enthusiasts, beer aficionados, and anyone seeking a unique and engaging way to experience Cleveland’s vibrant past and honor the enduring stories of its beloved neighborhood spaces. Don’t miss this unique pub crawl through the heart of Cleveland’s rich tavern history!

Rare photographs of historic Cleveland bars (inside & out)
Stories of legendary saloonkeepers and Prohibition rebels
Taverns as hubs of immigration, politics, and music
Wild tales: murders and mysteries
Family-run bars that built communities from the ground up
A chance to share your own barroom memories

Catch Me at Author Alley – August 3, 2025!
2025-08-03 13:00 - 17:00 | Loganberry Books, 13015 Larchmere Blvd, cleveland, OH, 44120, United States
📚 Loganberry Books | 1:00–5:00 PM
I’m excited to be part of this year’s Author Alley at Loganberry Books—one of Cleveland’s best celebrations of local writers and independent voices. I’ll be there Sunday, August 3rd with my book Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.
📖 Stop by, say hello, and grab a signed copy!
About Author Alley:Hosted annually by Loganberry Books, Author Alley is a lively outdoor book fair that showcases a wide range of local talent with signings, readings, and great conversations.

Riverside Cemetery's Music & Arts Festival
2025-07-27 13:00 - 18:00 | Riverside Cemetery, 3607 Pearl Road, Cleveland, OH, 44109, United States
Meet author, Tom Kaschalk, at his table at Riverside Cemetery’s Music & Arts Festival.
Tom will have copies of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History available as well as a display of historic tavern images.
Proceeds from the festival support the Riverside Cemetery Foundation.

The Tremont History Project presents- Brews & Backstories: A Pub Crawl Through History
2025-07-15 18:00 - 21:00 | Forest City Brewery, 2135 Columbus Rd., Cleveland, OH, 44113, United States
Admission is free. Reserve your seats today.
Sponsored by the Tremont History Project.
Discover the fascinating history and culture of Cleveland’s neighborhood bars.
The evening includes:

Venue & Neighborhood Overview
Rare, never-before-seen photos of historic Cleveland taverns
The role of taverns in immigration, politics, and the local music scene
Stories from neighborhoods across the city
Scandals, mysteries, and Prohibition-era secrets
Generational family bars and tight-knit communities
Mobsters, bootleggers, and celebrity connections
Book signing and meet-and-greet with the author

Building Entrance is located on Freeman Ave. This event will take place in the The Waldorf Beer Hall.

Sokol - Bohemian National Hall
2025-06-21 16:00 - 18:00 | Bohemian National Hall, 4939 Broadway Ave, Cleveland,, 44127, United States
Join us for a spirited evening of stories, rare photos, local lore, and a toast to Cleveland’s barroom past.
Presented as part of Cleveland History Days, featuring, Tom Kaschalk, the author of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.
As a special introduction to our historical exploration, the bar will be open serving Czech refreshments. Be sure to explore the on-site museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Cleveland’s Czech communities through artifacts, , and exhibits that celebrate over a century of local history.
Prepare for a fascinating virtual historical stroll through Cleveland, where we’ll explore the sites of some of the city’s most legendary and iconic taverns. We’ll uncover the compelling stories and colorful characters that shaped these vital neighborhood gathering spots over the decades, gaining insight into their crucial role in Cleveland’s social and cultural evolution.
While many of these historic establishments are no longer standing, their legacies deeply resonate within the city’s collective memory. This event is perfect for history enthusiasts, beer aficionados, and anyone seeking a unique and engaging way to experience Cleveland’s vibrant past and honor the enduring stories of its beloved neighborhood spaces. Don’t miss this unique pub crawl through the heart of Cleveland’s rich tavern history!
Pick up a book at the event—every purchase helps support Sokol Greater Cleveland’s cultural programs and historic preservation efforts.

Rare photographs of historic Cleveland bars (inside & out)
Stories of legendary saloonkeepers and Prohibition rebels
Taverns as hubs of immigration, politics, and music
Focus on the Broadway area taverns
Wild tales: murders and mysteries
Family-run bars that built communities from the ground up
A chance to share your own barroom memories

Admission is free. Reserve your seats today.

Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History
2025-06-20 17:00 - 19:30 | Polish American Cultural Center, 6501 Lansing Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio, 44105, United States
Polish Happy Hour with stories, rare tavern photos, museum tours & garden strolls. A Cleveland History Days event. Free with registration.
SOLD OUT! Registrations are full. Please check back just before the event to see if more seats become available.
The evening includes:

Venue & Neighborhood Overview
Rare, never-before-seen photos of historic Cleveland taverns
The role of taverns in immigration, politics, and the local music scene
A special focus on Slavic Village taverns, with stories from neighborhoods across the city
Scandals, mysteries, and Prohibition-era secrets
Generational family bars and tight-knit communities
Mobsters, bootleggers, and celebrity connections
Book signing and meet-and-greet with the author

Private Lions Club Event
2025-06-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Lion’s Club
This is a private event for the Highland Heights Lions Club.
Join us for a spirited evening of stories, rare photos, local lore, and a toast to Cleveland’s barroom past.
Featuring, Tom Kaschalk, the author of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.
Prepare for a fascinating virtual historical stroll through Cleveland, where we’ll explore the sites of some of the city’s most legendary and iconic taverns. We’ll uncover the compelling stories and colorful characters that shaped these vital neighborhood gathering spots over the decades, gaining insight into their crucial role in Cleveland’s social and cultural evolution.
While many of these historic establishments are no longer standing, their legacies deeply resonate within the city’s collective memory. This event is perfect for history enthusiasts, beer aficionados, and anyone seeking a unique and engaging way to experience Cleveland’s vibrant past and honor the enduring stories of its beloved neighborhood spaces. Don’t miss this unique pub crawl through the heart of Cleveland’s rich tavern history!

Rare photographs of historic Cleveland bars (inside & out)
Stories of legendary saloonkeepers and Prohibition rebels
Taverns as hubs of immigration, politics, and music
Focus on the Broadway area taverns
Wild tales: murders and mysteries
Family-run bars that built communities from the ground up
A chance to share your own barroom memories

Walkabout Tremont
2025-06-13 17:00 - 21:00 | Walkabout Tremont, The Treehouse / 820 College Ave,, Cleveland, OH, 44113, United States
Meet author, Tom Kaschalk, at his table at Walkabout Tremont.
Tom will have copies of Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History available as well as a display of historic tavern images.

On May 9, June 13, July 11, and Aug. 8, guest artists, craftspeople, bakers, and makers will set up along the sidewalks selling their artwork. Enjoy the best of Tremont’s creative, diverse and walkable neighborhood as you browse art galleries, boutiques + bars.

Cuyahoga Valley Genealogy Society
2025-06-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Independence Civic Center, 6363 Selig Boulevard, Independence, OH, 44131, United States
“Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History” presented by Tom Kaschalk
Cleveland’s neighborhood taverns are more than just places to grab a drink—they are living pieces of history, filled with stories of immigrants, entrepreneurs, and everyday people who built the city. From the frontier saloons of the 1800s to the vibrant family-run bars of the 20th century, these watering holes were the heart of their communities.
Tom Kaschalk was born and raised on Cleveland’s southeast side and shares his passion for the city’s rich history as the founder of My Cleveland History.
Event Recap

Thank you, Cuyahoga Valley Genealogy Society!
I had a fantastic time speaking with a record crowd of 50 attendees at the Cuyahoga Valley Genealogy Society this week for my presentation on Cleveland Neighborhood Taverns: A Pub Crawl Through History.
It was an incredibly engaged group—sharing stories, asking great questions, and connecting through the city’s rich tavern past.
One unexpected surprise? When I showed a vintage photo of a bartender at the old Dempsey’s Oasis (now Prosperity Social Club) , someone in the audience shouted, “That’s my grandpa!” Moments like that are what this project is all about—bringing Cleveland’s past to life, one bar and one story at a time
