It’s yet another iconic building in Lorain that very likely will have a appointment with the wrecking crew. A Morning Journal article by Richard Payerchin noted, “the building is in forfeiture to the state of Ohio for owing back taxes of at least $74,765, according to the demo board.”
But the future of the building looked a lot rosier back on October 7, 1963. That’s when an article by Jim Mahoney ran in the Journal explaining that the 1949 mortgage of $165,000 was finally paid off.
The photo that ran with the article is shown at right.
The article noted, "A spark that glowed in 1949 burst into flame Sunday night.
"The $165,000 mortgage of United Polish Club vanished in 90 seconds – PAID after 14 years.
"The ritual of the match and paper highlighted the 50th jubilee banquet with a capacity throng of 400 witnessing.
"After a week-long celebration, the half-century milestone was passed with a three-hour program of jubilation, speech-making and commendations.”
Mayor Woodrow Mathna gave a speech, noting “It has been a great honor for me to follow John C. Jaworski in the mayor’s chair. He served 10 years with dignity and was held in high esteem. The Polish people of this community have an outstanding history for being progressive and active participants in community affairs.”
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I covered the United Polish Club's 50th jubilee celebration in a two part series, here and here.