How to Search for My Polish Heritage

Learn skills to start their journey on finding out about one’s Polish heritage focusing on the period of time post-WWII

This event is presented entirely in English.

The Polish Museum and Archives in Australia (PMAA) was established in 1991 as an initiative of a number of people who saw the importance of collecting and preserving historical materials that reflected the individual and community life of Polish immigrants living in Australia. The organisation was incorporated in 1992. Over the years, PMAA has run several exhibitions, heritage workshops as well as publishing books and book launches.

The aim of this presentation is to equip people with skills to start their journey on finding out about one’s Polish heritage focusing on the period of time post World War Two.

Where to start?

What to look for?

We will show you how to go back in time, answer these questions, and find out some of this information. You will leave the session feeling confident that you can start your Polish heritage journey.

ABOUT BARBARA CAPEWELL

Barbara’s mother was one of the first refugees of 732 Polish children who came to Pahiatua, New Zealand in 1944, along with her 4 siblings. Her father came to New Zealand via England in 1952. He was a Polish soldier in the 2nd Corps under Gen. Anders. She was brought up in Auckland as part of the Polish community attending Polish school and Church, as well as other cultural events. In 1989 Barbara and her family moved to Melbourne but became involved in the PMAA in 2017, first as a committee member and now as Secretary. Barbara has represented PMAA at PolArt and other PMAA events.

ABOUT ANIELA KOCIUBA

Aniela was born in Melbourne to a Polish father and an Australian mother of Irish ancestry. Since she was a small child she was drawn to the Polish side and always was surrounded by Polish people. A few years ago she discovered the Polish Museum and Archives in Australia and became involved. Aniela has represented PMAA in heritage workshops, book launches and other events. Sadly her father died in 1995.