In the late 1800’s, people began to come to America from Europe for a better way of life and economic opportunity. The “Hill” was then composed of Irish, Swedes, Germans, and Slovenians. The Croatians settled in an area across the Kaw River known then as the “Patch”, as it was a slightly blighted area, but within walking distance of the packing houses where they worked. That area is now known as the West Bottoms. The Great Flood of 1903 washed out the whole area and everyone moved across the river to the hill that was covered with wild strawberries, hence, Strawberry Hill was started. Prior to their move from the “Patch”, the Croatians had started a plan for a church of their own. The Irish had St. Mary’s, which is now closed, the German’s built St. Anthony’s, and the Slovenians had built Holy Family Church. The Croatians wanted a church of their own, so they built St. John the Baptist Church, which is still standing and holding services for approximately 600 people, as well as a school with approximately 120 students from pre-school to 8th grade. It also has its own bowling alley. The church hosts the St. Johns Festival every August. All in all, the European people all played a huge part in the history of Strawberry Hill. With their perseverance, and hard work, they created a wonderful little cultural and ethnic corner of the world we fondly call “The Hill”.