German Americans of Cleveland

German American Churches in Cleveland

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Germans were prominent in the business community establishing bakeries, breweries, newspapers, retail stores, and savings and loan associations as well as other enterprises.

Some of the businesses founded by Germans include:

Zion Lutheran Church
Zion Lutheran Church, 1975.

Since the Germans first settled in Cleveland, religion has played an important role in their lives.

Numerous churches were founded by Germans including the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church by Rev. Heinrich Schwan, who displayed one of the country's first Christmas trees, performed over 2,700 baptisms, and 1,000 confirmations during his 30 years as pastor.

Other houses of worship started by Germans include:

To this day, at least four churches continue to conduct worship services in German:

See all images of Churches from the Collection.