Exploring the Untold Stories: The History of Polish Americans in Early America

The history of America is a tapestry woven from the diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences of countless immigrants who sought new opportunities in the New World. Among these immigrants were Poles, whose contributions to the development of early American society are often overlooked in the broader narrative of colonial history. To shed light on this important yet underrepresented aspect of American history, I’m launching a short series of blog posts dedicated to exploring the history of Polish Americans in early America.

Revisiting the Polish Presence in Jamestown

The story begins with the early 17th century; Polish settlers played a crucial role in the survival and growth of America’s first permanent English settlement: Jamestown, Virginia. In a previous set of blog posts, I shared some thoughts on teaching Jamestown in a U.S. survey course; on conducting research on early settlers of the colony; and on the arrival of Polish craftsmen in Jamestown in 1608, just a year after the colony’s founding. These early Polish settlers were not only skilled artisans but also key contributors to the colony’s economic stability.

Polish glassmakers, pitch and tar producers, and soapmakers brought with them specialized skills that were in high demand in the fledgling colony. Their work in Jamestown helped lay the foundation for important industries that would sustain the colony through its difficult early years. The story of these Polish settlers in Jamestown challenges the traditional narrative of early American history, reminding us that the success of the English colonies was, in part, due to the contributions of immigrants from across Europe, including Poland.

Introducing Polish Settlers in New Amsterdam and Beyond

As I continue our exploration of Polish American history, my focus will expand to other areas of British North America where Poles settled and made their mark. One of the most intriguing chapters in this history is the story of Polish settlers in New Amsterdam, the Dutch colonial settlement that later became New York City.

In a forthcoming post, we will delve into the life of Alexander Karol Kurczewski, a Polish settler and teacher who lived in New Amsterdam during the 17th century. Kurczewski’s story is a fascinating example of how Poles integrated into the diverse and multicultural society of New Amsterdam. His contributions as a teacher highlight the important role that education played in the colony and underscore the impact of Polish immigrants on the development of early American communities. In exploring Kurczewski’s story, we gain insight into the broader experience of Polish immigrants in New Amsterdam and their contributions to what would become one of the most important cities in the world.

But the story of Polish Americans in early America doesn’t end with New Amsterdam. Poles settled in other areas of British North America as well, contributing to the development of colonies such as Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Maryland. In Pennsylvania, for instance, Polish settlers were part of the diverse population that helped to establish the colony as a center of agriculture and trade. In New Jersey, Poles were involved in various trades and industries, helping to build the colony’s economy.

Looking Ahead

Throughout this series, I will not only highlight individual stories like that of Alexander Karol Kurczewski but also explore the broader impact of Polish Americans on early American society. I will examine how Polish immigrants contributed to the economic, social, and cultural development of the colonies and how their experiences reflected the challenges and opportunities of life in the New World. From their involvement in agriculture and industry to their participation in military endeavors, such as the American Revolution, Poles were active and influential members of colonial society. Their contributions, though often overlooked, were vital to the success and growth of the American colonies.

By uncovering these stories, I hope to enrich and expand our understanding of early American history and celebrate the diverse origins of the American people. The history of Polish Americans in the colonies is a testament to the enduring impact of immigration on the development of the United States, and I am excited to learn more about this topic in the months to come and to share these stories with you.

Stay tuned for our upcoming posts on Polish settlers in New Amsterdam, Pennsylvania, and beyond. Through these stories, we will honor the memory of those who helped build the foundations of our nation and remind ourselves that the American story is one of many voices, each contributing to the rich and complex history of our country.

For Further Reading

Research and topic ideas will be pulled from a variety of resources. Here is a short list of these works and compilations.

Books:

Barczyk, Ewa E., ed. Footprints of Polonia: Polish Historical Sites across North America. Hippocrene Books, 2022.

Bukowczyk, John J., ed. Through Words and Deeds: Polish and Polish American Women in History. University of Illinois Press, 2021.

Bukowczyk, John J. A History of the Polish Americans. Transaction Publishers, 2008.

Bukowczyk, John J., ed. Polish Americans and Their History: Community, Culture, and Politics. University of Pittsburgh Press, 1996.

Fox, Paul. The Poles in America. Arno Press, 1970.

Gladsky, Thomas S. Princes, Peasants, and Other Polish Selves: Ethnicity in American Literature. University of Massachusetts Press, 1992.

Haiman, Mieczysław. Polish Past in America, 1608-1865. Polish Museum of America, 1974.

Haiman, Mieczysław, and the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America. Poland and the American Revolutionary War. Printed by the Polish Union Daily, 1932.

Kruszka, Wacław, et al, ed. A History of the Poles in America to 1908. Translated by Krystyna Jankowski. Catholic University of America Press, 1993.

Majewski, Karen. Traitors and True Poles: Narrating a Polish-American Identity, 1880-1939. Ohio University Press, 2003

Pienkos, Donald E., and Edward J. Moskal. For Your Freedom through Ours: Polish-American Efforts on Poland’s Behalf, 1863-1991. East European Monographs, 1991.

Pula, James S. Polish Americans: An Ethnic Community. Twayne Publishers, 1995.

Walaszek, Adam. Polish American History Before 1939. Taylor & Francis, 2023.

Wytrwal, Joseph Anthony. America’s Polish Heritage: A Social History of the Poles in America. Endurance Press, 1961.

Zurawski, Joseph W. Polish American History and Culture: A Classified Bibliography. Polish Museum of America, 1975.

Websites:

American Institute of Polish Culture

Polish American Studies

Polish Review