Croatian Fraternal Union Building, Cultural center in Oakland, Pittsburgh, US
The Croatian Fraternal Union Building was an office structure in Pittsburgh located on Forbes Avenue. The multi-story structure featured Flemish Gothic Revival design with ornate terra cotta details, containing offices, meeting halls, and an auditorium.
The building was constructed in 1929 by architect Pierre A. Liesch and served as headquarters for North America's largest Croatian organization until the group relocated in 1961. After this move, the structure lost its original purpose and community significance.
The building served as a gathering place where Croatian immigrants celebrated their heritage through performances and social events in dedicated halls. People came together here to maintain traditions and strengthen their community bonds.
The building was located on Forbes Avenue in central Pittsburgh and was easily accessible on foot. When active, it provided office space and event facilities for a large Croatian-American membership base to hold regular gatherings.
The building housed not just administrative offices but also the printing press for Zajedničar newspaper, which delivered news in the Croatian language to thousands of community members across North America. This publication was a vital link connecting the scattered diaspora.
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