A Living History Lesson: Wartime Experiences and Artifacts at the Polish Museum of America
The Polish Museum of America is pleased to invite Polish school groups to an immersive and educational history lesson on Saturday, November 16, at 10:00 AM. In partnership with historical educator Marek Rowicki, this event will bring students closer to the stories, artifacts, and experiences that shaped Polish resistance and resilience during WWII. This interactive presentation will captivate students with firsthand stories, rare historical items, and reenactments.
The program highlights include:
- Personal Story and Visual History of Warsaw
The event will begin with a recounting of a wartime story about one of the speaker's grandfather, Paweł Janczewski, accompanied by 20-30 rare slides of the defense of Warsaw, digitized directly from original film. Students will witness these vivid images and hear stories of courage and loss from a personal perspective.
- Presentation on the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade (Maczkowcy)
Marek Rowicki will present the history and contributions of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade, known as the Maczkowcy, bringing to life the valiant efforts of these Polish forces.
- Exhibit on the 15th Poznań Uhlan Regiment
Authentic cavalry artifacts, including a saddle, lance, and gear from the legendary 15th Poznań Uhlan Regiment, will be showcased by Andrzej Stano. Students will learn about the significance of this regiment and the role of Polish cavalry in WWII.
- Bicycle Brigade
Members of a WWII cyclist reenactment group, Rafał Drwięga and Wojciech Dudek, will share stories and showcase the bicycles and equipment used during the war, highlighting this often-overlooked aspect of wartime mobility.
- Poles in Wehrmacht Uniforms
A presentation by Artur Tarnowski featuring a German uniform will address the experience of Poles who were forcibly conscripted into the Wehrmacht, shedding light on the complex and difficult choices faced by many under occupation.
- Allied Representation: British and American Uniforms
Reenactors in British and American uniforms will illustrate the continued fight of Polish forces in the West after the September campaign, symbolizing the global alliances formed during the war and Poland’s lasting role in the struggle for freedom.
This event offers a unique opportunity for students to learn about Poland’s WWII history from a dynamic and engaging perspective, fostering a deeper understanding of the experiences and bravery of those who fought.
Admission:
The program is open to Polish school groups, with reservations required. For more information, please contact us.
