Thursday, March 09, 2017
Ink-Slinger Profiles by Alex Jay: Sefcik
Arthur Milton Sefcik was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on May 29, 1901, according to the Ohio Births and Christenings Index at Ancestry.com. His parents were James J. Sefcik and Anna Pirka. The 1900 U.S. Federal Census said James, a Bohemian emigrant, and Anna resided in Cleveland at 315 Humboldt.
In the 1910 census, Sefcik was the oldest of three siblings. Their father was a tailor. The family resided in Cleveland at 5225 Buettner Court.
According to the 1920 census, Sefcik was a moulder at a foundry. He lived with his parents at 16229 Madison Avenue in Lakewood, Ohio. Sefcik’s mother passed away 18 days after the census enumeration.
Information about Sefcik’s art training has not been found. A listing in the 1923 Cleveland city directory said Sefcik’s address had not changed and he was an artist at the Landon School.
American Newspaper Comics (2012) said Ol’ Trusty was created by Charles D. Small It started in November 1926. Succeeding Small was George “Swan” Swanson. Next was Sefcik who filled in during July 1927. Don Wootton was the artist when it ended. Sefcik was one of six artists on the weekly strip, Bugs, which started on March 12, 1924. The first four artists were Roy Grove, Irving Knickerbocker, Charles D. Small and George “Swan” Swanson. Sefcik drew Bugs in July 1927. Don Wootton was the last artist.
A city directory for 1926 recorded Sefick’s address as 4417 Douse Avenue and occupation as NEA Service artist.
The same address was in the 1930 census. Newspaper artist Sefcik lived with his father who was still working. Sefcik’s father passed away in September 1937. Sefcik’s address did not change in 1940. His occupation was artist. In the census industry column was written, “Fashion Artist, Sewing Projects”. Sefcik had completed two years of high school.
Sefcik passed away August 26, 1954. A death notice appeared in the Cleveland Press, August 28.
Sefcik, Arthur M., passed away suddenly Thursday, Aug. 26, brother of Helen R. Pickard and Roy of Silinas, Calif. Friends may call at A. Nosek & Sons, 3282 E. 55th St., where services will be held Monday, Aug. 30, at 2 p. m.Sefcik was laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery.
—Alex Jay
Labels: Ink-Slinger Profiles
