In this special episode, we talk with John Schmidt about his CHS Hall of Fame grandfather, John "Pop" Schmidt. Pop taught science at Omaha Central High from 1918 until his death in 1949. Pop coached many legendary Eagle athletes and teams to championships and lifetimes of success. Listen to John discuss his love for CHS and for his grandfather.
"To some there is given the talent of being a teacher in the full meaning of the word. Such a man was John 'Pop' Schmidt. He was genuinely interested in the welfare and progress of his students and was ever willing to give a helping hand to those who needed it. He was a man of kindly counsel, and he stood firmly by that which is right. John Schmidt is a great part of that tradition which is Central, and the influence of the days that he taught here will live on."
-Principal J. Arthur Nelson in The Register Nov. 21, 1949
(2:20) Minnesota roots and Central High beginnings
(4:35) coaching great athletes at CHS
(12:51) embracing Central's diversity
(16:20) the nickname "Pop" and losing former students in WWII
(20:10) 1945 State Track Champs
(21:45) the legacy of a great man
Please share the pod far and wide! Thanks for listening!
Host: Scott Wilson
Art: Beth Wilson
Music: Drew Ruchti
Thanks for listening to the show! "Chatting at the C" is supported by the Omaha Central High School Foundation. Consider supporting the CHSF by joining "Generation C"
