Trustees Honor Roll

Spehek, Louis

Pioneer accordionist, Slovenian-born Louis Spehek embraced his new home in the United States by entertaining on the button accordion, and becoming the first Slovenian-American recording artist.  Louis arrived in Mansfield, Ohio, in 1902, but soon moved to Cleveland (1905) where he could play for larger audiences. Louis first recorded on Victor Records in 1924,in Cleveland, Ohio, teaming with Math. Arko (Matt Hoyer) on two 78s. During the same session he recorded another recording with singer-actress Augusta Danilova. Louis signed with Columbia Recording  and recorded six 78s, in 1928.Both of Louis’ sons, Louis and Frank, learned to play the accordion and joined him in playing for weddings, baptisms, and lodge events. Louis, who owned a fencebuildingcompany, introduced the “Pillow Dance” (Povster Tanc) toAmerican-Slovenians.