Published on 05/26/2013

Long before Don Wolf was born, the outline for A Croatian Love Story was formed in the 1900’s. An ethnic neighborhood was the site where determined women and men struggled to build, to educate and to become citizens. These Croatian immigrants formed the strong shoulders supporting cherished traditions as they learned to live in and to love their new country. Don’s photographs depict Croatian life both in the United States and in Croatia. His writing preserves generations of memories. This book is a tribute to those who came before and a blessing to those who are yet to come.

Don’s photographs depict Croatian life both in the United States and in Croatia

Don Wolf, Kansas City, professional photographer, and author of the book

I came into this world during the depression year of 1936, the fi rst-born grandchild of poor Croatian Catholic grandparents in a section of Kansas City, Kansas respectfully called Strawberry Hill. I found myself surrounded by many uncles, aunts, cousins, nun teachers and neighbors who were poorly educated and spoke broken English. My landmarks were St. John’s school and church, St. John’s orphanage, the Kansas River, the stockyards, the city dump and the railroad tracks. Going into the Navy and becoming a photographer and making it my career helped me blend my professional talent with my ethnicity, which culminated into the “Croatian Love Story”.

Croatian Traditions Tamburitzans, photo by Don Wolf

Long before Don Wolf was born, the outline for A Croatian Love Story was formed in the 1900’s. An ethnic neighborhood was the site where determined women and men struggled to build, to educate and to become citizens. These Croatian immigrants formed the strong shoulders supporting cherished traditions as they learned to live in and to love their new country. Don’s photographs depict Croatian life both in the United States and in Croatia. His writing preserves generations of memories. This book is a tribute to those who came before and a blessing to those who are yet to come.

Friendly chat in Gorski Kotar, a mountainous part of Croatia

Plitvice Lakes, the most beautiful lakes in the world. Protected by UNESCO.

Spirituality of Croatians, seen by the photo-camera of Mr. Don Wolf.

A famous photo by Don Wolf: late Ana Žagar in St. John's Catholic church, 1968, KC, in front of crucified Christ.

Mr. Don Wolf with Croatian nuns

Dubrovnik is the most beautiful mediaeval city in the world. Protected by UNESCO.

"I am now becoming involved
with my real passion, which is
photographing the people of
Croatia in the villages and small
towns that to me, are the heart of
Croatia. I have made sixteen
trips to Croatia and each time it
is a new adventure." -- Don Wolf

Formated for CROWN by Darko Žubrinić
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