by Victoria Granacki, Polish Museum of America Softcover, 128pp, 2004 Polish Downtown is Chicago's oldest Polish settlement and was the capital of American Polonia from the 1870s through the first half of the 20th century. Nearly all Polish undertakings of any consequence in the U.S. during that time either started or were directed from this part of Chicago's near northwest side. This book illustrates the first 75 years of this influential Polish neighborhood. Featured are some of the most beautiful churches in Chicago-St. Stanislaus Kostka, Holy Trinity, and St. John Cantius-stunning examples of Renaissance and Baroque Revival architecture that form part of the largest concentration of Polish parishes in Chicago. The headquarters for almost every major Polish organization in America were clustered within blocks of each other, and four Polish-language daily newspapers were published here. The heart of the photographic collection in this book is from the extensive library and archives of the Polish Museum of America, still located in the neighborhood. 11004ac$19.99

Polish Chicago: Our History, Our Recipesby Joseph W. Zurawski (Author), Julita Siegel (Contributor), Katherine Bish (Photographer) Hardcover, 240pp, 2007 Polish Chicago: Our History, Our Recipes is the most ambitious work on the Polish community of Chicago to date. Author Joseph W. Zurawski, a historian, educator and author of the Polish experience in both Poland and America for almost 50 years, brings a wealth of insight and knowledge to this groundbreaking work. By elegant prose and stunning photograph (often rare and previously unseen), and poignant personal profile, Zurawski documents the full dramatic saga of Chicago's Polonia. In free and optimistic Chicago, these Polish Americans not only supported their beleaguered homeland, they also forever enriched their new home by contributing their tremendous work ethic, unending patriotism, fervent faith, tireless charity and beautiful culture to create a vibrant and ever-evolving Chicago Polonia. Polish Chicago: Our History, Our Recipes recounts the amazing story of these indomitable people. Moreover, for many food is simply nourishment, but for Polish Americans, food means family. It is a means by which to share with others, celebrate tradition and show affection. Thus, this book highlights culinary contributions by turning an inviting light onto 12 of Chicago's award-winning Polish eateries, with each providing recipes of their excellent fare. As an added bonus, 24 Polish-American Chicagoans have opened their kitchens and their hearts to readers. Each shares family recipes along with cherished family photographs and private family stories, some whimsical, some poignant, each offering an authentic glimpse back into worlds often hidden to the readers by time, political walls or both. Brought to you by G. Bradley Publishing of St. Louis, in cooperation with The Polish Museum of America. 9816$37.50

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