Bohemian Rhapsody - Forgotten by the River, Remembered at the Cemetery

Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally Told

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In this episode, we explore the rich history and legacy of Chicago’s Bohemian National Cemetery—a place that’s so much more than a resting place. We’ll explore what it really means to be “Bohemian” (no, not absinthe-drinking artists) and how this historic cemetery, founded by Czech immigrants, became a site of resilience, community, and remembrance.

Highlights:

• Introducing New Listeners: Natalie welcomes listeners from around the world, including folks from the Philippines, Spain, and even her family in Slovakia!
• Bohemian National Cemetery: Learn why this unique cemetery, established by Czech freethinkers, stands out for its inclusivity, independence, and quirky monuments, like a memorial for Cubs fans that mimics Wrigley Field.
• Bohemia’s History: A crash course on the rise and fall of Bohemia, how it transitioned from an independent kingdom to part of the Czech Republic, and what “Bohemian” culture really means.
• Chicago’s Czech Community: Discover the impact of Czech immigrants in Chicago—from early labor activism to political influence, culminating in the election of Chicago’s Czech-born mayor, Anton Cermak.
• Eastland Disaster Connections: Natalie highlights the Bohemian National Cemetery’s role in memorializing Eastland Disaster victims and preserving their stories, showing how these memories live on through meaningful, carefully crafted public art.
• BONUS EPISODE: Guess who’s back! Max and Eva, my trusty AI sidekicks, are diving into a topic that’s as bold as it is brainy—the history of Freethought in the Czech community! 🧠✨

Links:

• Friends of Bohemian National Cemetery
• A Dear and Precious Heritage: The Bohemian National Cemetery, Chicago, Illinois by Carol Jean Smetana
• Cubs-Themed Burial Site Offers A Season Ticket For Eternity
• American Sokol
• Freethought Today
• Wikimedia Commons (additional music)

Additional Fun Fact:

Stay tuned for a bonus episode on YouTube where Natalie’s AI pals, "Max" and "Eva," will discuss the Czech community’s freethought movement and its impact on Chicago’s cultural landscape.

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

Luvut

1. Bohemian Rhapsody - Forgotten by the River, Remembered at the Cemetery (00:00:00)

2. Bohemian National Cemetery (00:00:08)

3. Art, History, and Community Engagement (00:17:24)