Stephen Furdek

Furdek was chosen due to his knowledge of both Czech and Slovak, and because he was nearing the completion of his theological studies.

In March 1882, he emigrated to Cleveland, where he attended St. Mary Seminary and was ordained a Roman Catholic priest by Bishop Gilmour on July 2, 1882.

Furdek began another parish, St. Ladislas, to serve the Slovaks and Hungarians living in the Woodland and Buckeye Road neighborhood.

[8] He was the first president of the Slovak League of America, which later played a large role in the call for an independent Czechoslovak state.

[3] He wrote profusely, writing books, pamphlets, and poetry in both Czech and Slovak on religious, political, and educational topics.

[10] A World War II Liberty ship, the SS Stephen Furdek, was named in his honor.