Just a quick note, and a piece of history. Schaller’s Pump, the oldest tavern in Bridgeport, has closed it’s doors. Sunday, April 30th was the final night of business for this historic Tavern in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood. George Schaller, Grandfather of Jack Schaller, Class of 1943, Bought “The Pump in 136 years ago, and it had been opened ever since. There are 2 very nice articles that can be viewed about this iconic and historic tavern attached. Last Call at Schaller’s.
Shaller’s Pump, a brief history.
Just another piece of Southside history, with a Leo connection.
I attended Brother George Gregory Lindeman’s services in October at the Brother Rice chapel. I was disappointed with the attendance but the Mass and remembrances were beautiful. One of the first photos I noticed when I walked into the chapel lobby were our Leo swim team photos. These photos and the kind words spoken about the good Brother brought back some fond personal memories.
In 1967 I decided to compete in the Golden Gloves. Few people knew I was going to box including coach Lindeman. I did well boxing and advanced without ever missing a swimming practice or meet. However, in the semifinals I broke my thumb and was unable finish the swimming season. No big loss as I was not that great a swimmer. Brother Lindeman was upset and asked why I had not told him about my boxing. I told him the truth, that I knew he would try to talk me out of it. Down deep I think he liked that I did well boxing but he told me I had let the team down. He was upset and said that I could have helped the team in the Catholic League season ending meet.
In 1968 I was somehow chosen to be the swim team captain. I do not think the good Brother was well pleased with that. I was nowhere near one of the best swimmers and a little wild (as far as swimmers go). I was however a hard worker and I think must have been well liked. Bro Lindeman immediately let me know my captain’s responsibilities of leading by example and helping the underclassmen. He also asked if I planned on boxing again. I told him I thought I would but was unsure. Practice and loyalty were very important to Brother Lindeman and he emphasized these traits. I seldom missed a practice my senior year and the team did fairly well. In February I again boxed. Bro Lindeman never wished me good luck. If you knew him you might understand why. However he did congratulate me when I did well again boxing that year. I thanked him for getting me in condition to compete and do well. I think I made him proud in several ways.
Looking back. Several nights of boxing brought me more attention than four years of swimming and water polo. Swimming is usually one of the last pages of the year book. For me Brother Lindeman made swimming more that a sport. It was surely a life lesson and I think he understood me. I truly cherish those years with Brother Lindeman at Leo. I will never forget the ideals he taught me about life, loyalty and faith. I can only hope to try to follow his example. Sorry again for any headaches I caused you Bro. RIP and thanks again for all you did for me and so many.