History of Cleveland Council No. 733

One hundred years ago, a wise and farseeing young priest, Father Joseph Smith, had a vision.  As a pastor of St. Aloysius Church, Fr. Smith saw a need for a new organization of men in the old Glenville neighborhood.  He decided that the Knights of Columbus should be that organization.

Determined to establish a K of C branch in the old Glenville district, Father Smith and several members of the established and thriving Gilmour Council #310 banded together, assisted by State Deputy P. J. Brady, A. A. Moran and P. J. Bryne.  In December of 1902, the Joseph F. Smith Council came into existence, staging its first initiation four days before Christmas.

The National Council notified the fledgling group in February 1903 that the Order rules forbad naming a council for a living person, so the name “Joseph F. Smith Council” was changed to the "Glenville Council"

No history of Council 733 would be complete without a list of the noble pioneers who made possible the great Council that exists today. The charter members of the Council were:

Brother Patrick J. F. Tumney was elected the first Grand Knight and served two terms from December 1902 to December 1904. The Council got off to a fine start under his leadership and began to grow quickly. Unfortunately, Brother Tumney did not live to see the Council grow to become the largest council in the state in the mid-20s.

After his retirement from office, PGK Tumney continued to be active in the Council affairs until his death in April 1921. He also served one year as a District Deputy.

The first Treasurer was a youngster named "Smiling Michael J." Corbley, a man whose name was synonymous with the Cleveland Council for a generation. Father Smith was named the first Council Chaplain, a post he held until 1928, at which time he was named pastor of St. John the Evangelist Cathedral in downtown Cleveland.

So great was the esteem and affection in which the Council was held that the State Council about 1903 named Father Joe its Chaplain. He was later elevated to Right Reverend Monsignor and served as Vicar General of the Cleveland Diocese.

Glenville Council prospered during the two terms of Grand Knight Tumney. Membership had jumped to 300--perhaps because there were so many poor men in the area who found a place of sociability and deep religious surroundings in the atmosphere of the Council.

By 1904, the Council had outgrown its home in Glenville and was forced to seek larger quarters. That search turned westward and toward the downtown area. In January 1904 the Council leased Flynn & Froelk Hall at East 53rd and Superior Avenue, where for 15 years the council met, carried on its business and grew.

Those accommodations were made possible by one of our charter members, Jim Flynn, one of the finest Knights to ever enter the Council. The name of Flynn and Froelk had been linked with the Council for many decades because one of the two names had always appeared on the membership roster.

It was in this hall that the Council's activities began to attract statewide attention. It was here that the degrees were held and that Columbian activities in the city centered, although the Councils in the area, by this time numbered three. In later years, the Council was to return to Flynn's hall for Degrees.

As the Council grew and attracted men from all over the city, it was decided that another name change was necessary. The name "Glenville Council" no longer reflected the membership, so the officers, after much deliberation, recommended that the name be changed to Cleveland Council No. 733. This was approved by the membership and for the past 99 years this has been the official name of the Council.

GROWING PAINS
Andrew J. McGarrell, who also served two terms, succeeded Grand Knight Tumney. It was during Brothers McGarrell's term that the practice for teaching Christian doctrine to the unfortunate boys at the Hudson Farm grew. The Grand Knight led the way, giving up his Sundays for more than a year in order to give instructions to lads at the farm.

The Council prospered under succeeding Grand Knights W. G. Forestall and P. B. Hussey, who served consecutive terms running to 1911. With the election of Frank T. Cullitan in December 1911, the Council moved into its first real clubrooms, comprising the entire third floor of the Old Opera House block, scene of many good times. For nine years the Council occupied those East Fourth Street quarters overlooking Euclid Avenue.

Following GK Cullitan came Brother M. M. Crotty, who has the distinction of being the only man elected for four consecutive terms. John I. Jennings, whose three terms proved to be one of the most productive in the Council’s history, followed Grand Knight Crotty.

BACK FROM THE WAR
By the end of World War I, Cleveland Council 733 had growing pains again. Hundreds of returning soldiers who had seen the unselfish work of the Knights of Columbus at home and abroad rushed to join the Council’s ranks. Cleveland Council soon became the largest Council in the state with over 3,000 members.

During this post war period, the Cleveland Columbian Building Company was formed and it began the search for a new home. Property was purchased near East Twelfth Street and Superior Avenue, but before the Council could consider using it, the Building Company received an offer that was much higher than its purchase price and decided to sell. With the money from this sale, the Building Company then bought the property at 3422 Euclid Avenue.

In April 1920, Cleveland Council No. 733 moved to these new quarters and thought it had settled down for "life." But again there came an offer to sell at a handsome profit. The officers of the Cleveland Columbian Building Company decided to accept. Property at 2612 Prospect was then purchased and a $250,000.00 remodeling and building program that included an additional building for bowling alleys and gym was begun.

At this time, John I. Jennings was Grand Knight. E. L. Brady followed him in 1921. John I. Jennings was elected for a fifth term in 1923 and was followed by Grand Knight J. O'Brien in 1924. On December 28, 1924, under GK O'Brien, this 3,000-member council moved into its Prospect Avenue location. It was a joyful occasion when the doors of this beautiful auditorium, gymnasium and bowling alleys were opened.

When Grand Knight John B. O'Neill assumed the chair in 1925, the Council realized the fulfillment of its dreams with the move into its new clubhouse. By a strange coincidence of fate, the clubhouse was the home of Edwin Cowles, picturesque former editor of the old Leader, the bitterest anti-Catholic of his day. Cleveland Bishop Joseph Shrembs dedicated the clubhouse on Sunday, January 17, 1926. GK O'Neill retired in 1927, after serving two terms, in favor of Grand Knight E. J. Timony, in 1928 and Grand Knight I. E. Whelan in 1929. The Council grew and prospered during the Coolidge era--but it was not to last, as the country learned.

THE DEPRESSION YEARS
In 1928, Monsignor Smith gave up his duties as chaplain to a young priest, a St. Aloysius assistant, Father Francis Lavery. He served as Chaplain until the early thirties, when he was transferred out of the city. It was then that Father Brucker came on the scene, serving as our Chaplain for nearly 10 years – and set a record for diligence and faithfulness to duty. He established the tradition of leading the Rosary at wakes of deceased members. During his term, Father Brucker was present at the wake of practically every member. Distance meant nothing to him – traveling from St. Catherine parish on the East Side, where he served as assistant pastor to the Far West Side.

The market crash of 1929 brought misery to many businesses and individuals; lodges too, felt the effects. Along with many others, Cleveland Council No. 733 began to have difficulties. It had built, it was discovered, a big White Elephant, for the auditorium, gymnasium and bowling alleys required a great deal of money in maintenance and revenues were off. The Building Company officers were self-perpetuating and were not Council officers. In fact, in 1930 no Cleveland Council No. 733 members were on the board of directors of the Building Company. The Company was a stock company and its officers purportedly represented the stockholders. Tension between the Company and the Council increased to such an extent that the Council moved from 2612 Prospect Avenue to old St. John’s Cathedral school. Gilmore Council No. 310, experiencing the same difficulty as Cleveland Council No. 733, also took quarters in the school, where, with his ever –generous heart, Monsignor Smith, now pastor of St. John Cathedral, offered the Councils free quarters. Not long after, an agreement was reached with the Building Company, and Cleveland Council returned to the 2612 Prospect Avenue address.

The Depression had hit hard. The "poor man’s Council" suffered as only the poor suffered. Members were dropping out, for many could scarcely find enough to eat let alone pay dues. Even insurance members were getting behind in their payments. The Council kept its head above water due to the able, courageous and efficient leadership of Grand Knight Edward J. Freemen, who found time from the multiplicity of his duties as City Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to devote nearly every night to Cleveland Council. Ably assisting Freeman were DKG Frank A. Cole, Financial Secretary Corbley, Recording Secretary J. Emmit Gerity and Inside Guard Frank E. Patrick. In the midst of all this, Cleveland Council was reborn. By this time, the Building Company faded away and the officers decided that it was impossible to maintain the clubhouse on Prospect Avenue.

On March 29, 1932, the Knights of Columbus - 600,000 members strong in nine countries - celebrated its Fiftieth Anniversary of founding. There were six local K of C councils, including Berea, Cleveland, Gilmour, Forest City, Lakewood, and Windermere.

A BIG BREAK
Businesses in the thirties were suffering—and out of that suffering the Council got a big "break." An offer was made by the management of the Allerton Hotel to rent Cleveland Council No. 733 almost the entire third floor of that hotel for $150.00 a month. The rental would even include the use of the hotel swimming pool for members. Grand Knight Freeman jumped at the offer and with Brother Ernest J. Bohn, who was director of the Cleveland Metropolitan Housing Authority, negotiated a most advantageous lease. In 1932, the Council moved into the Allerton. F. A. Cole followed as Grand Knight. Cleveland Council hit its lowest ebb in 1934 with membership shrinking to 1,100 and being heavily in debt to the Supreme Council and to local merchants.

It was the proud boast of the Cleveland Council that no insurance member lost his insurance until every means of saving it had been exhausted. Thousands of dollars in premiums were advanced by the Council to save insurance for its unemployed and distressed members. This "poor man’s Council" was nearly broke under the burden of debt--but sturdy and self-sacrificing members held it up.

The big change came in 1934 under the leadership of five men—Richard L. Maher, who became Grand Knight that year, DGK Emmett Gerity, Lecturer Jim Hannan, Financial Secretary Gerald J. "Jerry" Hessoun, and Chaplain Fr. Francis A. Brucker. Cleveland Council was down but not out. Faced with a huge debt, these men went to work to inject activity into the Council and within a few months, a major Degree was held. The Annual Christmas Party was revived and the Annual Memorial Mass, which had been attracting only a few members, was made a major activity with hundreds coming to this Church activity.

Men from all sections of the Council were called into activity and the Allerton fairly buzzed with Columbian events. There was the Saturday night parties, lectures, study groups, luncheons and dinners. Behind the scenes, these men attacked the Council delinquency. A strong lapsation committee and investigating committee went into action and a solid, well-founded drive for members was launched.

Cleveland Council No, 733 was prepared by 1935. It took the leadership in Catholic Action in the city by inviting Bishop Francis Kelly of Oklahoma City to Cleveland to lecture on "Red Mexico." Plans for this event, which filled the Allerton ballroom and adjoining ballrooms to overflowing, were made by Fr. Brucker through Cleveland Archbishop Joseph Schrembs and brother Thomas A. Ryan, later Master of the Fourth Degree, as Catholic Action chairman. As a member of Cleveland Council, the Archbishop, through Father Brucker, called upon Council #733 to take part in the National Eucharistic Congress that year. We were to be the welcoming committee – and we were ready. Brother Ryan threw his Catholic Action committee into motion under Father Brucker’s direction. The result: council volunteers met every train, bus and airplane coming into Cleveland during the Congress. Priests, nuns and visitors were given directions and aid. In addition, the Council was instrumental in providing financial aid for the Eucharistic Congress.

RETURN TO NORMALCY
By 1936, the Council was well on its way to normalcy. Membership rolls had grown to just less than 1,600. Its debt had been reduced to $3,800.00 from $12,000.00 in just two years. Every merchant to whom Cleveland Council No. 733 owed money had been paid one hundred cents on the dollar – not one bill was compromised. The officers felt a moral obligation to pay and they did. Within a couple of years, under the leadership of such men as GK Emmett Gerity and GK Stanley Nemec, the Council had completely wiped out the debt and had money in the bank. For this achievement, under the stewardship of Grand Knight Nemec, the Council received a citation from the Supreme Council, which pointed out that Cleveland Council, without aid from the national body, had solved its problems, paid its debts and returned to solvency. The Council grew in numbers and strength. Quality was stressed – an Admissions committee was set up to scan all applicants for membership. Large classes continued to come in – but the Council never lost sight of it main objective laid down by Father Joe – "the poor man’s Council."

A TIME OF CHANGE
The ‘40s brought new changes to the Council. Father Brucker as transferred to St. Peter’s in North Ridgeville in Lorain County and so decided to resign as Chaplain. In his wisdom, Archbishop Schrembs picked a worthy successor in Father John J. Humensky, pastor of St. Anthony and St. Bridget. Father Hemensky served 10 years as Chaplain, and officers and members felt his influence, kindliness and sincere advice throughout the Council. He proved, indeed, a worthy successor to those illustrious Chaplains of bygone years.

The ‘40s also saw the Council move again. It was during the regime of Grand Knight Albert Sheffield that the Allerton decided to boost the Council’s rent. Twice, the Council had given up space in lieu of a rent raise. It had moved its quarters to the Allerton penthouse and had taken over the roof garden. However, the hotel wanted more than the $200.00 monthly rental being paid. In 1940, Grand Knight Sheffield appointed a committee to look for other quarters. Heading the committee was Frank A. Uniack, who later served as Faithful Navigator of Moses Cleaveland General Assembly, Fourth Degree, and Master of the Fourth Degree for Northeastern Ohio.

Brother Uniack’s committee approached Hotel Hollenden managers – and from Dick Marsh, a Knight of Columbus and then manager of the hotel, received a flattering offer. The Council could move to the third floor of the hotel for the same rent it was paying at the Allerton. The offer was accepted and, late in 1940, Cleveland Council began its ten-year residence in the Hollenden. The Hotel decorated the quarters. They were furnished well and the arrangement proved a happy one.

Through the war years, the Council lived in the Hollenden. They were also hard years, for, while the Council still was growing and had passed the 2000 mark in membership, many members were being called into service. More than one hundred of the finest members were called to duty – and two of them would never return.

THE WAR YEARS
In 1942, Cleveland Council celebrated its Fortieth Anniversary in the Hollenden marked by a gala event. An anniversary Degree was held followed by a colorful dinner in the Hollenden ballroom with Dean Clarence E. Manion of Notre Dame University as speaker. Within a few months, the Council lost is Grand Knight Joseph E. Wiezer to the service of our country. GK Weizer entered the Army early in 1943, creating a vacancy that was filled by Deputy Grand Knight Henry Kondrat. GK Kondrat later became a Supreme Director of the Order in New Haven, Conn. The Council suffered another big loss with Financial Secretary John Hannam being called to active duty in the Military Service.

The war years found Cleveland Council on the job. First to go into action was our great founder, Monsignor Smith. While others talked, he acted, turning the hall of the old Cathedral School into a Canteen for servicemen. He called upon a number of Catholic laymen, most of them members of the Knights of Columbus, for aid. The Canteen got underway with the old K of C slogan of World War I: "Everybody welcome, everything free!"

Judge James C. Connell of Cleveland Council #733 headed the committee working with Monsignor Smith. Arthur McBride, also a member of 733, aided greatly in providing financial means to start the project. Monsignor Smith called on Cleveland Council for help – and the Council responded. Past Grand Knight Emmett Gerity conceived the idea of holding a gigantic Easter Monday Ball to raise funds for the Canteen. The idea was a huge success. The Hollenden ballroom was taken over for the occasion – and never was there such an event in the hotel’s history. Crowds came and went throughout the evening. At times, they stood four and five deep down the steps from the Mezzanine floor. Thousands jammed in during the hours the ball was in progress. The event was a success and, soon afterward, a check for several thousand dollars was given to Monsignor Smith.

It should be noted that the annual K of C Easter Monday Ball was the creation of Cleveland Council 733. Back in the mid-twenties, a young priest, Father Joseph Hurley conceived the idea that might well be termed the forerunner of the CYO. He originated the boy’s camp idea and, as an active member of Cleveland Council, he pushed through the plan to finance the camp through the Easter Monday Ball. The first of these was held in 1925 and, they were financially and socially successful for many years. Unfortunately, when Father Hurley left to become secretary to the Apostolic Delegate in India, the idea died.

With the close of WW II, Cleveland Council didn’t stop its work. Ed Kehoe became Grand Knight, serving two terms and, under his guidance, the Council carried on for the future. It initiated the program sponsored by the Supreme Council of educating children of members who died in the service. It kept its activity in civic affairs and in the post-war program. Steve Suhajcik followed as Grand Knight in 1947 and was responsible for many new members entering the Council.

A HOME IN 52
When James T. Carney became Grand Knight in 1948, he was consumed with the idea that the Council should have a home. He coined the slogan "A home in ’52." His dream became reality a full year ahead of that. Carney began the building-fund campaign. There were scoffers and critics. Some even laughed at the idea. Older members remembered the Prospect Avenue incident of the thirties. But Carney, aided by his officers, persisted. Michael Kendra, then Deputy Grand Knight, and Walter E. Marnell, Financial Secretary, were strong aids in the campaign. The officers, it must be admitted, were wiser than their predecessors of 25 years earlier. They built on rock – not on sand. Under GK Carney, The Downtown Catholic Club, a Trust Fund for Cleveland Council, was formed. Its function is to distribute funds to various charitable organizations in the name of Cleveland Council No. 733. Since its inception, the Trust Fund has distributed over $500,000.

Michael Kendra became Grand Knight in 1950. In early 1951, the opportunity arose to purchase property at 3443 Euclid Avenue. A committee, which did not identify itself to the owners, occupants or the bank that held the property in trust, inspected the building. They liked it. It had been the residence of Andrew Squire, a prominent Cleveland attorney, built at the turn of the century – was like a rock in its construction.

The committee still wasn’t ready to jump. Brother Thomas A. Ryan was called in as attorney. It was suggested that an appraisal and survey be made. The Knights Center Corporation was formed and the property was purchased for about $100,000. The appraisal showed the property alone without the buildings worth just a shade under that figure. If there were any doubts in the minds of the corporation officers about the wisdom of their purchase, it was resolved in the spring when an offer was received to purchase the Chester Avenue frontage of the property for more than half what was paid for the entire parcel.

When the council finally took possession, a remodeling program was begun. The remarkable thing about that program was that the Council was able to move in to the new quarters just seven days after it had planned to do so. June 1 had been set as the deadline and, despite material shortages and other problems, the contractors on the job had things in such good shape that Cleveland Council, with a membership of 2,500, moved into the home on June 8, 1951.

Howard J. Reid became Grand Knight in 1952, followed by John M. Kovach, in 1953. GK Kovach was a deeply religious man and led the council in a strong spiritual commitment to the rosary and Right to Life campaign. For many years, John represented Cleveland Council 733 in an annual trip to Washington, D.C. in January for the "March For Life." Many times, in bitter cold and rain, John joined the many thousand supporters in a peaceful march protesting the Roe v Wade decision by the US Supreme Court.

ON THE MOVE . . . AGAIN
In 1956, under GK Kovach, an attractive offer was made to the Knights Center Corporation to switch properties. The home at 3443 was becoming increasingly expensive to operate, whereas the Huron Ninth Building was an income-producing parcel. The offer was accepted and the Council decided to move back to the Hollenden Hotel.

Cleveland Council founded the Columbian Federal Credit Union in December 1957 during Grand Knight Walter Zachman’s term. This Credit Union was and still is in existence for the exclusive use of Cleveland Council members and their families and has made loans in excess of $7 million to its shareholders.

James DeVinne and Vincent Fiebig served as Grand Knights between 1958 and 1961, and the Council prospered. Virtually every Catholic professional working in downtown Cleveland belonged to Cleveland Council No. 733. While these gentlemen were in office, there were sports activities such as bowling and golf. The Council was active in increasing membership and charitable gifts and had active sick and welfare committees. Many of us remember the Annual Christmas Parties for the children. Monsignor William Novicky served as Chaplain at this time.

Steve Shepard served as Grand Knight in 1961, followed by GK Joseph F. O’Hara who served two terms. FK O’Hara started many activities, including Quarterly Communions, Memorial Masses, a softball team that played at Brookside Park every week, a Sportsman’s’ Night with awards for members and a Toastmasters Club. As a police officer, GK O’Hara recruited many policemen into the Order. After his retirement, PGK O’Hara kept in touch regularly by phone with Cleveland Council from his home in sunny Melbourne, Florida until his death in March 1999. His saddest moment while Grand Knight was the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

The Council moved from the Hollenden Hotel to the Hotel Carter in 1962. In 1963, a fire destroyed 40 percent of the Huron Ninth Building (where the parking lot now stands). It was a devastating blow to the Council in terms of income. The insurance settlement was inadequate and the remaining part of the building had to be repaired.

Joseph F. Woods became the Grand Knight in 1964 and maintained the high level of accomplishments in Cleveland Council. Grand Knight Woods recruited the largest Circle of Squires in the State of Ohio and arranged for the Squires to travel to Washington, D.C. The Council prospered with Christmas parties, egg hunts and excursions. Many sports teams represented Cleveland Council during this period with basketball, softball, golf and even bantamweight football teams. Very uniquely, during GK Woods’s terms, Cleveland Council raffled off two automobiles.

Anthony E. Procaccini was elected Grand Knight in 1966. The Council decided to make another move – this time to the Hotel Cleveland on Public Square. The Council as part of a ten-year lease financed a Penthouse, on the roof of Hotel Cleveland. Offices and clubrooms were accommodated there. The Sheraton eventually bought the Hotel.

Michael Blackwell followed as Grand Knight and maintained the high standards of the Council. GK Blackwell was the Police Chief of the City of Cleveland and initiated many of the Catholic police and firemen into Cleveland Council No. 733.

Brother Carl Peterson ascended as Grand Knight in 1969. During GK Peterson’s two-year term, PGK Vincent Fiebig and PGK Joseph Woods served consecutive terms as District Deputy of the Order. Grand Knight Peterson started an Annual Steak Roast, which always sold to capacity. This term was part of a career in which GK Peterson dedicated untold hours and effort to Cleveland Council serving as Council treasurer, Columbian Federal Credit Union president and Knights Center Corporation treasurer for over twenty years.

The ‘70s were in full swing when Nicholas M. Maczko served as Grand Knight. Many social reforms started to take place during this time and GK Maczko led Cleveland Council during these perilous times, maintaining the high standards that are a hallmark of Cleveland Council 733. 1972 was a banner year for the Council. The Knights of Columbus celebrated its 90th Anniversary and Cleveland Council No. 733, its 75th Anniversary. Msgr. Robert C. Blair was named Chaplain of Cleveland Council No.733.

Past Grand Knight Richard L. Maher passed away in 1972. He had been active in virtually every transaction involving Cleveland Council during the early ‘30s until his death. He served as President of the Knights Center Corporation. As Political Editor the Cleveland Press, he was instrumental in giving the Council publicity in the newspaper.

Fred F. Hilow followed in 1973 and served two consecutive terms as Grand Knight. He emphasized the Blood Bank and the Annual Corporate Communion at St. John Cathedral. The Homecoming affair for 25 or 50-year members was held and was well attended. One of the year’s highlights was the Oktoberfest at the Hofbrau Haus, which became an annual affair.

George F. Garner became Grand Knight at just the right time. In 1975, little did he suspect that a move was imminent for the Council. His foresight and planning paved the way for the events that were to take place a few years later. With GK Gardner at the helm, the Council continued the programs of Quarterly Communions at St. John Cathedral followed by a buffet dinner at the clubrooms, the Annual Memorial Mass at the Cathedral, the Annual Oktoberfest, Charity Campaigns and the Christmas party. Members enjoyed the clubrooms in the penthouse of the Sheraton Cleveland Hotel by playing cards and watching Cavs basketball as well as baseball and football. GK Gardner attended the Ohio State Conventions as Grand Knight and later as convention delegate, taking resolutions to the Convention floor and fighting for their passage. As Secretary of Police, he brought many police into the council. In his personal life and during his Knights of Columbus career, Gardner was deeply concerned about Cleveland’s youth. He arranged for many young people to go to camps, often paying the expenses from his own pocket. PGK Gardner was elected a Trustee of the Council in 1978 and continued giving leadership and guidance through the following years until his death in October 1992.

In August 1976, the ten-year lease at the Sheraton expired and, under the leadership of Grand Knight Gardner, a new five-year lease was signed.

ANOTHER NEW HOME
Brother Lawrence M. O’Toole followed as head of Cleveland Council No. 733 in July 1977. The Sheraton Cleveland Hotel had filed for bankruptcy earlier that year and all leases were cancelled including the Council’s lease in the Penthouse. The Stouffer Hotel chain purchased the Hotel and a representative from Stouffer’s informed Cleveland Council on July 24, 1977, that the premises would have to be vacated by August 8 because the firm would be closing the hotel for remodeling and would reopen later with guest rooms only. However, four days later, on July 28th, a Sheraton representative informed Cleveland Council that the Hotel would be closed at 6:00 p.m. on August 1st and that we would have to vacate the office and clubrooms by that time.

Less than a month into his term as Grand Knight, O’Toole was faced with a difficult task. A Committee under PGK and Trustee George F. Gardner went to work. The Officers had suspected that trouble was ahead ever since the five-year lease was signed and started to do their homework. Many proposals were studied and a committee decided that the best course of action would be to move into the available on the third-floor space of the Huron-Ninth Building, which the Knights Center Corporation owned.

Bids were sent out and remodeling was started for offices and clubrooms, with a completion date of October 7, 1977. Meanwhile, with just three days notice to vacate the Sheraton, a massive effort by many Officers, Past Grand Knights and members got underway. On July 29 thru August 1, 1977, Norris Brothers, the company of Council Brother Maurice Norris, moved the furniture and equipment from the hotel to storage space in the Huron Ninth Building.

Building delays prevented the Council from moving into its new quarters in the building on East Ninth Street until March of 1978, so arrangements were made to hold meetings and services at Hagan Hall at St. John College. The Council finally moved into its new digs in March 1978. Chaplain Msgr. Robert C. Blair blessed the new Clubrooms on April 2, 1978. A well-attended open house followed the ceremony.

On Sunday evening, June 18, 1978, Grand Knight O’Toole died of cardiac arrest resulting from heart surgery several years earlier. He was 53. Those who knew Larry felt a deep sense of loss because he was known as a "man’s man," a good father and husband and a true and loyal servant of Christ. In all things, he gave his best. He was the only Grand Knight of Cleveland Council to die in office. District Deputy, Raymond Brandt appointed PGK Nicholas Maczko to serve out the remaining term of the late GK O’Toole. While serving his third term as Grand Knight, Maczko stimulated the Council’s involvement in the Measure-up campaign, resulting in $216.00 being collected for Mentally Retarded Persons at Our Lady of the Wayside.

Walter Marnell, a 52-year member of the Knights of Columbus and Financial Secretary of Cleveland Council for 32 years, retired on May 1, 1979. Born and raised in Delaware, O., Walter joined the Delaware Council #1056 in 1927 where he served as Grand Knight and Trustee, and Financial Secretary for eight years. Walter worked for the K of C Insurance Department in the Youngstown territory and came to Cleveland Council as Financial Secretary in July of 1947. A farewell banquet organized by PGK Joseph Woods was held April 25th for Marnell at the Hofbrau Haus. Resolutions from the Supreme Council and Cleveland City Council were presented.

The Supreme Office in New Haven approved the appointment of Thomas J. Gorman as the new Financial Secretary of Cleveland Council in July 1979. Brother Gorman had been a member of the Council since 1939 and had held six officer positions.

Phillip J. Adams assumed the Grand Knight’s position in 1979. While serving a two-year term, GK Adams hosted a Family Hour of prayer at St. John Cathedral. The Measure-up campaign continued raising over $600 for persons with mental retardation and the pool tournament was re-instituted chaired by Brother Tim Horval. Most Rev. Anthony M. Pilla was installed as Bishop of Cleveland, followed by the Bishop James P. Lyke as auxiliary Bishop. Both Bishop Pilla and Bishop Lyke joined Cleveland Council No. 733. Bishop Lyke was named Archbishop of Atlanta in 1990 and passed away in 1992.

As the 80’s began, the Annual TV Mass for shut-ins was introduced and coordinated by Brother Lionel James and has become an annual affair. The Channel 8 studio was filled to capacity. Chaplain Msgr. Robert C. Blair had a Mass at the clubrooms before a meeting and it eventually became a regular monthly church activity every third Tuesday of the Month. PGK James Carney resigned as head of the Knights Center Corporation in May 1980 and PGK George Gardner was elected its new president in July 1980.

Many activities and events were started during Grand Knight Norman Trepanier’s terms in office from 1981 to 1983. TV finally came to Cleveland Council with the Split Club funds purchasing a TV set for use in the Council meeting room. A special meeting, preceded by Mass, was held honoring the 16 living Past Grand Knights of Cleveland Council. Each PGK received a beautiful plaque engraved with his name.

1982 represented the 100th Anniversary of the founding of the National Knights of Columbus, and Cleveland Council held an Anniversary Dinner Dance. After many delays, the construction of the Regina Coeli Airport Chapel at Cleveland Hopkins Airport began. Cleveland Council’s Chaplain, Msgr. Robert C. Blair, was the administrator of the Chapel. Cleveland Council was a great spiritual and financial supporter of the chapel.

After 1983, Cleveland Council was fortunate to have Brother Leo McIntyre as Grand Knight. Bishop Lyke said Mass and presided at GK McIntyre’s installation in September 1983. During the 1980s, membership in fraternal organizations decreased and Cleveland Council was no exception. GK McIntyre, however, maintained the high standards of Cleveland Council in all activities. Brother John Kerzisnik became Grand Knight in 1985 and instituted the Annual Mass at the Airport Chapel followed by breakfast at Kamm’s Corners.

William P. Tighe, Jr. took over the reins in 1987 and brought the Council closer to activities in the Diocese. Donations were made in the RVSP Program for Borromeo seminarians and five seminarians were initiated into the Order. GK Tighe enhanced the Annual Free Throw contest every year, and each year since then it became bigger and better. Over 2500 participants received awards given by the Council since its involvement.

Since 1979, over $45,500.00 has been collected in the Council Measure-up Campaign for distribution to Our Lady of the Wayside and OLA/St. Joseph Center. A program of speakers focusing on Pro Life, Vocations, Abortion and Right to Life was introduced, as well as VCR videos on membership and the priesthood.

Financial Secretary Thomas Gorman was forced to retire in May 1988 because of ill health. During Gorman’s nine years as Financial Secretary, he contributed greatly to financial stability of the Council and the Knights Center Corporation. The Supreme office confirmed the appointment of Frank J. Kelley as the new Financial Secretary on September 14, 1988, and he continues to administer the financial affairs of the Council to this present day. Brother Kelley joined Cleveland Council in 1947 and noted that over the past 55 years, only three brother knights have served as Financial Secretary of 733.

TOWARD THE FUTURE
When Brother Henry J. Hilow was elected Grand Knight in 1989, a unique occurrence. During the 90 years of its existence, Cleveland had not had a father-son Grand Knight relationship. GK Henry Hilow is the son of the late PGK Fred F. Hilow (1973-75). GK Henry Hilow brought youth and excitement into the council chambers. New young members entering the organization would continue to thrive into the future.

Brother James L. Rae was elected Grand Knight in 1991, assigning tasks to many committee chairmen and assisting them in making the Council operation more efficient. As the Grand Knight during our anniversary year, James Rae made certain that the celebration of Cleveland Council’s 90th year would be in keeping with Council tradition. A celebration banquet was held at the Holiday Inn Lakeside City Center near E. Ninth Street and Lakeside Avenue, attended by our own brother, Bishop Anthony M. Pilla, Bishop of Cleveland. It was a sold out event and great prelude to our 100th year in 2002.

On October 30, 1992, PGK and Trustee George F. Gardner passed away. He was also president of the Knights Center Corporation and The Downtown Catholic Club and was affectionately regarded as the "father of the council." PGK and Downtown Catholic Club president was elected as the new president of Knights Center Corporation in December 1992.

Raymond A. Pipak became Grand Knight in 1993, bringing youth to the helm. GK Pipak inaugurated our first Lolly the Trolly ride and the first Annual Fred F. Hilow Pool Tournament. As Chancellor of the Council, GK Pipak orchestrated a smooth program for the Annual Commemorative Services and continues on to this day as chairman of the Memorial Committee.

PGK Fred F. Hilow passed away in July 1994. PGK and Trustee Phillip J. Adams was elected president of the Knights Center Corporation and The Downtown Catholic Club in July 1994.

Herman Stoves Sr. followed as Grand Knight in July 1995 after finishing his term as Faithful Navigator of the Fourth Degree Moses Cleaveland Assembly. GK Stoves was proud of the fact that he was the first African-American Grand Knight in Cleveland Council No. 733 Knights of Columbus organization. Herman and his officers worked hard to bring a greater diversity to the Knight’s social programs. The Nautica Queen boat ride and the Cuyahoga Valley Train ride were two very successful ventures. GK Stoves, loved and respected by all those who knew him, passed away in January 1998, six months after leaving office.

In 1995, Chaplain Msgr. Blair asked to be relieved of his duties as Cleveland Council’s Chaplain and Bishop Anthony Pilla appointed Fr. David C. Weber as the new Council Chaplain. Msgr. Blair continued as Chaplain Emeritus of Cleveland Council until his death on June 5, 1996.

Gabriel Minton became Grand Knight of Cleveland Council in July 1997. As the council leader, GK Minton re-organized the Annual Family Picnic, scheduled regular Corporate Communion Masses and Breakfast-Buffets after the Mass and a Super Bowl XXXIII Party in the council Chambers. The council became increasingly active in the Free Throw contests by hosting several schools and the council’s Annual Christmas Parties were expanded. In May 1998, the Grand Knight Minton held a gala Past Grand Knights celebration at the Holiday Inn Lakeside City Center. Twelve living past Grand Knights were honored at the celebration and present at the affair were Bishop Anthony M. Pilla, Bishop of Cleveland as well as State K of C, Cuyahoga County and City of Cleveland officials.

As a result of his timeliness in reports and completion of many programs and activities, GK Minton was able to secure the 1998-99 Supreme Columbian Award for Cleveland Council 733. He was appointed a District Deputy after his term as Grand Knight ended.

In October 1999, the council made a giant leap into Internet by opening its own website at www.kofc733.org. Under the direction of PGK Gary Harvey and PGK Phil Adams, a fresh new approach to Cleveland Council was begun as the organization started tooting our horn at the world. Since its formation, the website has developed into one of the best K of C sites on line.

Grand Knight Monte S. Cox followed as our council’s leader in 1999, becoming active with aluminum can drives, providing First Communion rosaries, reviving the Annual Oktoberfest, in the council chambers, a Geneva, Ohio Winery Trip and the 2000 Lolly the Trolly excursion in Cleveland that earned the council the "Best Council Activity in the State" Award that year at the Ohio K of C State Convention.

January 2001 began on a sad note with the passing of Walter E. Marnell, former Financial Secretary of Cleveland Council 733 for over 30 years. Supreme Knight John Swift appointed Walter Financial Secretary of Cleveland Council 733 in July 1947. As a 73-year member of the Order, Walter worked and lived for the Knights of Columbus. He was a dedicated brother of Council 733 and helped many members secure loans through the Columbian Federal Credit Union. He was also very active in the Fourth Degree serving on many committees and orchestrating many functions. Walter also served as treasurer of the Columbian Federal Credit Union, Building Manager of the Huron-Ninth Building and Secretary of the Knights Center Corporation and The Downtown Catholic Club.

As a new century began, PGK Edward P. Szidik became Grand Knight of Cleveland Council No. 733 in July 2001 and immediately appointed a Council Centennial Committee for our 100th Anniversary Celebration in 2002. Grand Knight Szidik declared the entire year 2002 as a Centennial Celebration year. Since July 1, 2001, the Grand Knight has hosted many social, civic and religious activities including a PGK Social, the Annual Free Throw competition with three area grade schools, Corporate Communions and Breakfasts, Fraternal Benefits and Old Timers Nights, a Bus Tour and much more. As a result of those activities, reporting deadlines, membership and insurance member increase, Cleveland Council No. 733 became a "Star Council" for the 2001-2002 fraternal year. The Star Council Award is the highest award issued to a subordinate council by the Supreme Council.

Grand Knight Edward P. Szidik petitioned Bishop Pilla to appoint Fr. William R. Behringer, SM, associate pastor of St. Aloysius Parish as the new chaplain of Cleveland Council in July 2002. On June 28, 2002, Bishop Pilla appointed Fr. Behringer as the seventh chaplain of the Council.

The Council Centennial Committee planned a 100th Anniversary Dinner Celebration on Wednesday, October 16, 2002 at the Holiday Inn Select, City Centre Lakeshore in Downtown Cleveland. A 40 page, full color Commemorative Booklet of the Council’s History and photos of past events and members was distributed at the dinner and 2 copies were mailed to every member of Cleveland Council No. 733.

Cleveland Council No. 733 eagerly began its next century. Its members are proud to be part of a great council that has boasted many accomplishments and part of an organization that is active in charitable and service works worldwide. We pray before each meeting for the all unborn infants and stand firm to protect them.

We are the right arm of our Catholic church.

Warb Boykin Jr. was elected Grand Knight in June 2003. Nautica Boatride, Picnic, Amish Heartland Bus tour,

Vivat Jesus!