Toledo’s Birmingham neighborhood began to develop in the 1890s with the steel, oil refining, and shipbuilding industries attracting workers from Hungary, Slovakia and Italy. Many young men and families, mostly from rural areas of Hungary, came to work in the thriving industries. The majority came from the counties of Abauj and Heves.
The last major wave of Hungarians arrived after the 1956 Revolution, when 300 individuals and families came to Toledo, sponsored by area churches and families. This influx of more urban Hungarians provided new leadership and energy to this neighborhood, resulting in increased cultural activities and a new sense of preservation of the physical community.
While few Hungarians or descendants currently live in Birmingham, many more live in the region and return regularly. Most of them do not speak Hungarian but are interested in learning about their heritage and supporting Birmingham activities. These events are hosted by The Hungarian Club of Toledo (monthly brunches, special events including Independence Day and 1956 Revolution Commemorations) and Calvin United Church of Christ (Hungarian Embroidery Club, Lorantffy group makes noodles, kolbász, pastries, etc.) and others.
For many years the Birmingham Ethnic Festival was held yearly, pre-Covid. In August 2024, a “Hungarian Food Fest” was organized to celebrate Birmingham’s history and contributions and was an overwhelming success! The Toledo- Szeged Sister City relationship (since 1990) has provided educational and cultural exchanges, and through the university relationships we have young professionals (and families) who have moved to Toledo.
Our community continues to work together. We are committed to preserving and passing on our Hungarian culture, identity, and history to the next generation. As the older generation passes away and churches and Hungarian businesses close this is more important than ever. This is the challenge we face together.
The Hungarian spirit is alive and well in Toledo’s Birmingham Neighborhood!
Whether you enjoy embroidering, baking, volunteering at the monthly events, or attending the Birmingham Ethnic Festival there is surely a place for you to connect in Toledo! On Facebook, look for The Hungarian Club of Toledo and Toledo, Ohio, USA & Szeged, Hungary Partnership
