October is Polish American Heritage Month. It is a nationally observed annual event to commemorate Polish American history from the first documented arrival of Polish Settlers in Jamestown, VA in 1608; and the continued influence Polish Americans and Polish Immigrants play in our history and culture.

October 1, 1608 marks the 411th Anniversary of the first Polish Settlers at Jamestown, twelve years earlier than the arrival of the Pilgrims. These skilled artisans brought to our shores by Captain John Smith were instrumental to the success of the colony at Jamestown.

In 1776 and 1777 Thaddeus Kosciuszko and Casimir Pulaski arrived in America respectively and offered their services to General George Washington during the American Revolutionary War. Their contributions led Washington on to victory.

Millions of Poles have immigrated to the United States and in 1854 families from Silesia, Poland created the oldest permanent Polish Settlement in the US, Panna Maria, TX. Invited by Fr. Leopold Moczygemba they settled near the junction of the San Antonio River and Cibolo Creek.

Throughout America’s history Polish Americans have contributed and continue to influence the history and culture of the Unites States of America.

For our Polish American communities there is much to be proud of during October, Polish American Heritage Month. In Utica NY we celebrate with an annual Polish Flag Raising Ceremony at Utica City Hall on September 27, 2019 at 12 Noon. Also celebrated is the General Casimir Pulaski Memorial Association’s Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Memorial Parkway Statue in Utica, Sunday, September 29, 2019 at 2PM.

On October 6, 2019 the Kopernik Memorial Association of Central NY is having an Open House, featuring a Polish Folk Clothing Exhibit from 1 to 3 PM.

And if that is not enough! Tuesday, October 8, 2019 is National Pierogi Day! It just does not get any better than Polish Heritage Month this October.

The Kopernik Memorial Association wishes you a fabulous Polish Heritage Month!

Get out and celebrate your Polish American history and culture!