Polish Museum of America in Chicago's Wicker Park
The Polish Museum of America grew rapidly when the German's invaded Poland in 1939. It expanded extensively in 1941 due to a donation of the personal possessions of Ignacy Jan Paderewski. The donation was made by his sister Antonia Padrewski Wilkonska, after his death, as a way to preserve the culture, history, art of their homeland. More donors followed and the museum grew to what it is today. The display of authentic Polish memorabilia and artifacts is spectacular no matter your ethnicity.
The Paderewski Room is one of the most popular displays in the museum. The rumored fact that it is haunted is especially alluring to tourists. Many staff members report numerous incidents claiming to have experienced ghostly phenomena in the room late at night. In 2004 the curator and board members called in The Ghost Research Society to substantiate the claims.
Among some of the more distinctive exhibits is the authentic embroidered folk costumes worn by Poles and immigrants alike. Artwork abounds in the Polish Museum. Stanislav Szukalski sculptures, a famous Polish sculptor, display his quite creative art form. A collection of original drawings by Thaddeus von Zukotynski is an interesting and unique exhibit. Another intriguing showcase is Bas relief that is carved in salt from the legendary Wieliczka Salt Mine. It is an amazing sight. Probably one of the most elegant and beautiful items is a sleigh that was a gift of the former king of Poland Stanislaus Leszczynski to his daughter.
The museum is so overloaded with artifacts that only a small portion is on display at any given time. This is wonderful for locals that are able to revisit the museum every time the display changes.
Another draw for museum is a huge library, amassed with collections of Polish authors, as well as books containing Polish history. Also found in the library are massive amounts of Polish-language newspapers, photographs, religious records, and maps. Any historian seeking information about Polish culture should avail themselves of this fantastic collection.
Another unique aspect of the Polish Museum of America is that they host a program called "Genealogy Saturdays". This event happens on the third Saturday of every month in the library. PGSA (Polish Genealogy Society of America) members are always available to help guide you when searching at this special time.
The Polish Museum of America is one of the only recognized resources for materials pertaining to Poland and the Polish-American community in the United States. Allow at least one hour to view the exhibits available. Whether you are of Polish heritage or not, you will not be disappointed by the history and beauty on display at the Polish Museum of America.
The Polish Museum of America is located at 984 N Milwaukee Ave in Chicago. To find out more about which exhibits are going on, or any other information, they can be reached by phone at (773)384-3352. Memberships are available. You can inquire about current membership rates during your visit or by telephone.
Their hours are: Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 10am-4pm. Wednesdays 1-7pm. They are closed on Thursday and Sunday.
If after a visit to the museum you are in the mood for authentic Polish cuisine, Podhalanka restaurant is three blocks from the museum. The museum staff will be pleased to tell you how to get there.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polish_Museum_of_America
http://www.wickerparkbucktown.com/
http://www.polishmuseumofamerica.org/english/ActivePages/PMAHomeEnglish.htm
Published by Cindi Starr
As a full time writer, I have a thirst for knowledge of all types. I am a published poet, and have published feature articles, and short fiction in print media. I write devotionals and historical romance f... View profile
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- Visit the Polish Museum of America in Chicago's Wicker Park
- Living in Chicago
- Chicago's Wicker Park and the Polish Museum of America
- The Polish Museum and Wicker Park in Chicago Illinois
- Free Museums in Chicago Guide
- Visit a Chicago Museum, Zoo or Other Attraction for Free in 2009
- Visiting Chicago, Illinois
- The Polish Museum of America is rumored to be haunted in some rooms.
- Polish immigrants played a huge role during the Industrial Revalution of America.
- Polish artifacts are some of the most detailed and beautiful in the world.
24 Comments
Post a CommentVery interesting :) Sheri
Sounds liek an inviting place. Thank You fer sharin'. Mizpah. ;-}}>
I'm Polish. This museum sounds interesting. Thanks for the info.
Never been to this museum, but it sounds interesting.
Sounds like a great museum.
I'll have to remember this when we head back to chicago!
Sounds like a great place for learning and for fun. :-)
I've been to Chicago many times, but never knew of this museum. Great information!
Thanks for the info. I wasn't aware of this place.
Chicago has so much culture. This is one I didn't know about. And Wicker Park is a "hot" place today. Thanks.