In 1904, the Czech community in the Lawndale area was growing so rapidly that in February of 1904, Archbishop Quigley appointed Rev. Francis Vanous to organize Blessed Agnes of Bohemia parish at 27th and Central Park to relieve overcrowding at the national parish of St. Ludmilla. Rev. Vanous oversaw the construction of a small brick church, which was dedicated on June 5, 1904. (the old church was located in the area that is now occupied by the gymnasium).