Prior to Covid-19 restrictions imposed in March 2020, the Anglo Polish Society, Bristol and the South West (APS) Committee started working on a project to commemorate Tadeusz Kościuszko’s visit toBristol in June 1797. After many years of research, developing and nurturing relationships with various organisations, and extensive content work; this tremendous project came to splendid fruition for all involved.The first element was the two-week exhibition at Bristol Central Library “Why was a desperately wounded Polish aristocrat, the “Peasant Prince” so lauded by Bristol’s dissenters and romantics when he arrived in June 1797?” Feedback from visitors and Library staff was very positive and a “great learning experience”.
11th June 2024 was an extraordinary day of joy and celebration, when the second and major element; the unveiling of the plaque commemorating Tadeusz Kościuszko’s stay at the White Lion Inn in Bristol in June 1797 was unveiled.
The White Lion Inn stood on the corner of Broad Street and New market Avenue in Bristol. During his stay in Bristol, Kościuszko also spent time in the American Consulate in Bristol, before sailing to America.Distinguished guests were joined by members of the APS and other guests, both Polish and British. The Emigranty Highlander Family Band created a lively atmosphere of highlander songs, including “Hej tamspod Tater”.
Dr Stefan Cembrowicz, acting Chairman of the APS, welcomed everyone and explained why the plaque was in this location and how Kościuszko was welcomed and feted in Bristol; celebrated by Dissenters, Quakers, Methodists, the Romantics and Radical Doctors; all who wanted an end to the slave trade and greater rights for ordinary people.
Dr. Simon Selby, President of the APS, and Honorary Consul of the Republic of Poland in Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, Bristol, represented the Embassy of the Republic of Poland and said what an honour it is to witness the recognition of the greatness of this patriotic hero and his commitment to his beliefs about human freedom against oppression.
Father Jacek Michalski, Parish Priest of the Polish Church of Our Lady of Ostrobrama spoke in Polish about Kościuszko’s deeds and the fact that his beliefs were far ahead of his time. During Kościuszko’s visit, Bristol was still involved in the transatlantic slave trade. Father Jacek explained how Poles recognized and honoured Kościuszko’s deeds by building a mound in Kraków named after him.
After a few congratulatory words on bringing this project to fruition, the Lord Lieutenant of Bristol Peaches Golding OBE conveyed the greetings of King Charles III; drew her sword and unveiled the plaque with her sword.
After singing the Polish and the United Kingdom anthems, everyone retired for light refreshments and Polish cakes!!
Here, The Lord Mayor of Bristol, Councillor Andrew Varney, as the first citizen of the city and county of Bristol, thanked the APS for the invitation to such an important event and praised the contribution of the Polish community to life in Bristol and its development.
Halina Countess of Munster, Patron of the APS, explained the organisation’s rich history and heritage and thanked the Polish Cultural Institute for supporting and funding this project.
The Highlander Band ended a wonderful day with a joyful mood and excellent music that encouraged our guests to get up from their chairs and dance.
The third and final element of this project was a very well received and supported talk by Dr Stefan Cembrowicz at the Bristol M Shed Museum, about Tadeusz Kościuszko and his visit to Bristol.
Grażynka Kowalewska
