How does a Czech miner become the mayor of Chicago? The Anton J. Čermák Statue stands as a tribute to a remarkable man. He was born Antonín Josef Čermák in Kladno. This village is near Prague.
Anton J. Čermák’s journey began in 1873. His family immigrated to America in 1874. They sought a new life. The Čermák family settled in Braidwood Illinois. This was a coal-mining town. Young Anton and his father worked as miners. He did not enjoy the miner’s life. Anton devoted his free time to education.
At 19, he started a hauling business in Chicago. Anton became active in local politics. He was elected to the Illinois State Legislature. His career reached new heights.
In 1931, Anton J. Čermák became the mayor of Chicago. He was the first mayor not born in the United States. Also he wasn’t of Anglo-Saxon descent. He faced complex problems. One major issue was Al Capone. Other gangsters gave Chicago a criminal reputation. Čermák spoke harshly against the mafia.
Čermák supported Franklin Delano Roosevelt in the 1932 election. They had a long-standing friendship. Roosevelt won the election.
Tragedy struck on February 15, 1933. Anton J. Čermák was seriously injured in Miami. This happened during an assassination attempt on President Roosevelt. He died in the hospital on March 6, 1933. Čermák is buried in the Bohemian National Cemetery in Chicago.
His crypt bears the words “I am glad it is me instead of you”. These were his words to President Roosevelt. Many conspiracy theories surround his death.
Today, Anton J. Čermák is remembered. Chicago’s 22nd Street is now Cermak Avenue. A branch of the Blueline is known as the “Cermak Branch”. A commemorative plaque is in Miami’s Bayfront Park.
Anton J. Čermák’s legacy lives on. He rose from a humble miner to a powerful mayor. He left an impact on Chicago and the Czech community. His story shows determination. It is a story of service. The Anton J. Čermák Statue serves as a reminder of his life.