Every October, the United States celebrates Polish American Heritage Month, a time to honor the culture, history and contributions of Americans with Polish roots. Today more than 8 million people in the U.S. claim Polish ancestry, and you can feel that heritage everywhere, from neighborhood bakeries and parish festivals to family recipes passed down for generations.
A little history
The celebration began in Philadelphia in 1981 and became a national observance in 1986. October was chosen in part to honor the first Polish settlers, who arrived at Jamestown, Virginia, in 1608, more than a decade before the Mayflower landed.
Where Polish pottery fits in
Polish pottery isn't the official focus of the month, but it shows up at many Polish-American celebrations. Cultural centers, libraries and community groups often include pottery displays, demonstrations and workshops in their October programs. It's easy to see why: few things say "Polish home" quite like a table set with blue-and-white stoneware.
Our pottery comes from the town of Bolesławiec in southwestern Poland, a region known for its stoneware for centuries. Each piece is shaped, decorated and fired by skilled artisans. The famous patterns are applied by hand, dot by dot and stroke by stroke, using small sponge stamps and brushes. Our UNIKAT pieces go even further: they carry more intricate designs and are signed by the artist who painted them.
Ways to celebrate at home
- Cook a Polish meal. Serve pierogi, gołąbki or a pot of żurek in Polish stoneware. It goes from oven to table, so the baking dish can also be the serving dish.
- Start a tradition. A Polish pottery mug or plate makes a meaningful gift for a parent, grandparent or new homeowner proud of their roots.
- Share the story. Turn over a piece and look for the Bolesławiec stamp, then tell your family where it came from.
- Get ready for the holidays. Our Christmas pieces, like gnome plates, snowmen and Christmas tree luminaries, bring Polish craftsmanship to your holiday table.
Hand-picked for you
I choose every piece in our shop myself from Poland, so I can share a little of this tradition with you. Every piece is dishwasher, microwave and oven safe, made to be used every day, not just admired.
Celebrate Polish American Heritage Month with us. Browse the collection and find a piece to make part of your family's story. Orders of $75 and up ship free.
Na zdrowie!
Susan