Name/Title
Tony Vazzano InterviewEntry/Object ID
2025.29.1Scope and Content
Oral history interview with Tony Vazzano, graduate of Lorain High School Class of 1961.
Tony Vazzano, a 1961 graduate of Maureen High School, shared his life story at the Lorain Historical Society on June 23, 2025. He recounted his childhood on 19th Street, his family's Italian heritage, and his involvement in local sports and clubs. Tony discussed his long career at Mobiles, starting as a stock boy at 16 and rising to assistant manager. He also detailed his experiences with the Ohio Lottery and his unique encounters at the Mansfield Reformatory, including interactions with ghosts and the last person executed there. Tony emphasized the importance of community, respect, and the impact of his experiences on his life. Tony Vazzano discussed his career as a lottery sales representative, covering 49 years from age 16 to 65. He traveled extensively, including daily 130-mile round trips to Mansfield and Cleveland. Tony organized promotional events like "spin and win" and attended lottery drawings at PBS. He shared personal anecdotes, including a near-tornado experience and memories of his wife and children. Tony emphasized the importance of family, recounting activities with his grandchildren and the close-knit community in Lorain. He also reflected on the changes in his hometown, noting increased crime in certain areas.Collection
Lorain High School Class of 1961 A&B Story ProjectAcquisition
Accession
2025.29Source or Donor
Vazzano, TonyAcquisition Method
DonationOral History Details
Interviewee
Vazzano, TonyInterviewer
Molnar, MargaretInterview Date
Jun 23, 2025