Well worth a visit . . . Nostrovia!
Even though I'm full Polish on my Dad's side, I can't say that growing up us Z kids were taught much about our Polish heritage (Our Irish, British, and Norweigan heritage on my Mom's side either for that matter) other than food. Pierogi, Kolache, Golabki, and Houska among others were at most major holiday gatherings in Chicago. I can't say in the short visit there I learned much, but it was especially cool to see the beautiful artwork
I know so little of our Polish heritage, that while we were there I texted my dad and a cousin who's been to Poland to find out what area our family came from. Turns out the northeastern region near Bialystok. A curator even went to a file cabinet to see if there was a folder on our family name, but no dice
The museum proper is chock full of displays and items . . . you can see down below. It spills over into a bit of a catchall backroom area with a gift shop and library among other things. Frankly it's a bit ramshackle, but that's fine. A favorite curiosity was a Pope John Paul throw rug
As the world deals with the current administration here and abroad, the section on World War II were timely reminders of the horrors of the past, and our possible near future
It's especially galling having Z relatives who are anti-immigrant, especially the one who came over as an immigrant with his parents and siblings. Oh well
All in all, a pleasant place, and well worth a visit and wander
-
Comments, Questions, Two Bit Opinions, and Whatnot are welcome:
tundrabites@yahoo.com
-
Polish Cultural Center & Museum - 102 Liberty Street Winona, MN, 55987
507-454-3431
www.polishmuseumwinona.org
Comments
Post a Comment