The Market played a vital role in the community, revitalizing the neighborhood and providing fresh local food to residents. It became a place to linger—a nostalgic third space—for people working both in and outside of the Market.
The World Out Your Doorstep
In 1900, around 75% of the city’s population was either foreign-born or first-gen descendants. More than 40 languages could be heard on the streets. The Market reflected the population too; by 1912, German and Hungarian immigrants had put down their roots, reflected in the sausages.
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Cleveland Memory Project
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Cleveland Public Library/Photograph Collection
Poultry Presence
Many long-time Market customers remember the days when you could go across the street and purchase a live chicken to bring home for dinner. Live birds were sold until 2001, often bundled up in newspaper or sometimes even on a leash!
“Someone tapped Grandma who was standing [on a streetcar] and said, ‘Ma’am. Would you mind turning your chicken around? It keeps pecking me.’” – Henry Dunasky
Other Markets
Ever wonder why the West Side Market is closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays? Originally, Central Market and Broadway Market were open on alternating days as West Side Market, so as not to compete for customers. The tradition has stayed the same, even long after the other Markets closed.
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Cleveland Memory Project
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Credits to the Cafe and the photo's donor
The Evolving Cafe
The West Side Market Café has been serving hot meals for more than 80 years. Originally, the space was occupied by four additional vendor stalls, but not long after the Market’s conception, the place became a hub for locals. It took on many names, including The Palace in the 1940s, Mary’s Place in the 50s, then Alexander’s in the 60s, West Side Market Cafeteria in the 70s-90s, then finally, the Café with Jimmy & Gus in the 2000s.
The cafe was a refuge for third shift factory employees, coming in well after 3:30AM in the morning for a refreshing night cap and some company before bed. On Thursdays, the cafe stayed open to service the Market employees. Even today, the cafe operates as an accessible and down-to-earth Cleveland classic.