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In his book Smaldone The untold Story of an American Crime Family Dick Kreck chronicles the incredible story of North Denver’s' foremost organized crime family. His saga spans the turn of the century inception of bootlegging by mom and pop wine makers through the highly organized smuggling and distribution by professional criminals in the 1930s. A story mirrored in cities throughout the nation, but some how much more impactful knowing that it all took place in the very neighborhoods we live and work in today.
Using his veteran newspaperman style, Kreck has filled this book with photos and captivating sub-stories that will keep your attention. He gives specific locations of key events and addresses of speakeasies as if he was creating a scavengers’ map for amateur history buffs.
He provides a helpful prolog list of “Characters” to aid the reader in keeping track of who is who in the complex tale along with a detailed index of notes on each chapter.
A notable character was Joe Roma aka “Little Caesar”. An unassuming grocery store owner who also headed the Denver rackets until he was gunned down in the living room of his North Denver home in 1933
The building that once housed Joe Roma’s neighborhood grocery store is located at 3420 Quivas St. in the popular "LoHI" neighborhood. It has been converted to a residence.
Below:The cozy home where the“Little Caesar” met his end is located at 3504 Vallejo St.
I recommend this book to fans of North Denver and history lovers everywhere.
If living in a history rich neighborhood like "LoHi" is your cup of tea...Here is a link to view our newest listing in this colorful area.
http://3530pecosstreet.ePropertySites.com
We know Denver. We know vintage and unique homes and how to help you buy and sell them. We want to be your Realtors. Call Today!
Rumaldo Ulibarri (303) 909-3449
The Bungalow Team at
Keller Williams Preferred Realty
www.thebungalowteam.com
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