Grala Family History

Notes from Judi

2012-01-14T17:49:00.001-05:00

If this is your first visit to our family web site ... WITAMY! If you haven't been here in awhile, please browse through all chapters for new additions and solved mysteries.

Specifically, we've found what may be the death certificate for Teofilia (Rogowska) Grala's brother Joseph [see Bronislaw & Teofilia]. Lots more updates to follow over the next couple of months!

HOW THIS SITE IS ORGANIZED
In order for each chapter of our family history to appear in the order it occurred, post dates are adjusted.

The chapters of our family history are "archived" by post date so that you can click on the year/month that corresponds with the following list to print each chapter separately. If you are interested in preserving this history for the future, my suggestion is to get yourself a 1" binder with 10 tab dividers and divvy them up as follows:

04.06.11 Bronislaw J. Grala, Maryanna Grala, Franciszek J. Grala, Puzzling Pieces, What's in a name?, The Baba Homestead & Letter from Frank
01.05.07 Bronislaw & Teofilia & Postcards From the Past
01.04.07 Bronislaw & Maryanna, Uncle Tadek, You've Got Mail, When You Are Old, Hey Stelllaaa!, & Gold Street Snippets
01.03.07 Ship's Log & Visit With Uncle Franek
01.02.07 Tatusiu Waltz, Grand Central Gathering, Interlude, Time to Polka & Uncle Stanley Rozycki
01.01.07 Cousins Reunion & Grandchildren
12.31.06 Great Grandchildren
12.30.06 Great Great Grandchildren & It's Grand to Be Grand
9.23.06

Behind the 10th tab, add these and other miscellaneous pages:

12.25.06 From Our House To Yours
3.27.06 Happy Easter!
12.25.04 HO! HO! HO!

This would make a lovely gift for a family member without access to the internet!

Bronislaw J. Grala

2011-04-06T17:17:00.000-05:00

"Eo sum genre gnatus." -- Platus*

Bronislaw Jozef Grala was born on October 12, 1891. At the time of his birth his parents, Jozef Grala and Antonina Gorecki, may have resided in Baba, Ostroleka, Mazowiecki, Poland. He died in New Britain, CT on October 10, 1984. In between is a history that spanned two continents and produced the wonderful family of which I am very proud.

BRONISLAW CA. 1909

While we know little of Jozef and Antonina aside from stories shared by their grandson Frank, Jr., we believe other children included: Jozef Jr., Maryanna, Helena, Bronislawa, Elinora and Franciszek.

When Bronislaw first arrived in America in 1909, he gave his last permanent address as Baba. He moved his family back there in 1921. In 1928, he returned to New Britain, CT ahead of them and took a job with Stanley Works where where he never missed a day of work in 30 years! These events alone paint a picture of a tenacious, adventurous man. Imagine the strength and determination it must have taken to pack up and move a family from one contingent to another ... not once, but twice!

Cousin Cynthia found this photograph of a woman who is most probably one of Bronislaw's sisters! We were fortunate that the father of Cousin Cookie's student was able to translate it for us: The inscription on the back reads, "To ja, siosta, kochany bracie i wnuczka moja, to jest starszezego tosyna corka." The way to say it in English would be, "It is I, your sister, my lovely brother, and my grand daughter from my older son. It is my son's daughter."

*Such is the stock I spring from.

Franciszek J. Grala

2011-04-06T17:16:00.001-05:00

Throughout our family's history it is clear there was a strong bond between Bronislaw and his brother Franciszek. So I am happy to share what little I know of him and hope to find some of his descendants as our tree grows!

Franciszek J. Grala was born on December 1, 1898. It is interesting to note that, on the U.S. Census for 1920, he indicated that he was born in Galicja* (Galicia in English). However, it is more likely he was born in Baba, Ostroleka, Mazowiecki, Poland. The youngest child of Jozef and Antonina, it's been said that he was the one to most resemble his mother.

Franciszek immigrated to the United States in 1912 and was headed to Lorain, OH where he planned to join Bronislaw [actual record not yet found]. But he had difficulty adjusting to that environment [his son Frank, Jr. didn't know if it was the steel mills or coal mines, but he did know it was hard labor] and got in touch with Joseph Gorecki who told him that the factories in the Hardware City were hiring ... especially new arrivals.

In New Britain he met Rose Swider and married her in 1915. They lived at 44 Orange Street where Franciszek (Frank) J. Grala, Jr. was born on November 30, 1916. Helena (Helen) was born in New Britain and Genowfa (Genevieve) was born around October 1921 in Poland. Rosalia died on January 12, 1938 in New Britain. Franciszek died there in 1952.

Bronislaw joined Franciszek in New Britain after the death of Teofilia in 1918. Rose cared for the children while her brother-in-law worked. Frank wrote that his father and Uncle Bronislaw was church collectors and on Easter and Christmas they wore bright red military-type uniforms as security guards at the tomb and manger.

In 1921 Franciszek's wife and children joined Bronislaw and his family in Baba for a period of one year. Franciszek stayed behind as he was attending night school to become a U.S. citizen. (At the time, the U.S. Government was very anxious to have new arrivals become naturalized and threw in a bonus ... if you became a citizen, your spouse automatically became one also.)

Sadly, Frank Jr. passed away on 27 Feb 1996. I am so thankful to have been the recipient of his colorful gleanings about the Grala family (see "Letter from Frankie")! God bless you Frankie.

*When genealogists use the term "Galicia" they are usually referring to a region of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, stretching from roughly Krakow in the west to Tarnopol in the east. Today, this area would be south-Eastern Poland and Western Ukraine. It is highly unlikely it is the place of Franciszek's birth.

Maryanna Grala

2011-04-06T17:15:00.003-05:00

Maryanna Grala was born about 1888, likely in Baba, Ostroleka, Mazowiecki, Poland. She arrived in New York on April 13, 1905 aboard the Rhein and was going to her brother Josef Grala in Pittsfield, MA.

On January 25, 1906, Maryanna Grala of Great Barrington, MA married Stanislaw "Stanley" Krzynowek of Lorain, OH. He was the son of Jacob Krzynowek and Sophie Simczyk. Joseph was born about 1882 and died in Hampshire Co., MA in May 1966. The ceremony took place at Corpus Christi Church in Housatonic, MA and was officiated by Rev. J. H. Fagan.

Grala-Krzynowek Notes:

When Bronislaw arrived in New York in 1909 he indicated he was going to his brother-in-law, Josef Krsynowski in Housatonic, MA. Josef was actually Stanley's brother.
Josef "Joseph" Krzynowek married Stanislawa Krzynowek, the daughter of Ignacy Krzynowek and Marianna Barsoy, on January 30, 1912. The following month, on February 19, 1912, Bronislaw married Teofilia. Sometime later both couples relocated to Lorain, OH.
Joseph died in Lorain on November 19, 1918. At the time of his death he was employed by the Clipper Steel Plant and lived at 813 E. 33rd St. Teofilia died in Lorain on the 30th.
After Joseph's death, Stanislawa made a trip to Poland with daughters Wladyslawa (1913), Antonia (1915) & Bronislawa (1919 indicating Stanislawa may have been pregnant when Joseph died). They returned to the U.S. on August 18, 1922 aboard the Aquitania and were going to her husband Stanlislaw Papinski in Lorain, OH.

Puzzling Pieces

2011-04-06T17:12:00.004-05:00

Thinking of you this first day of Autumn with a lovely card I received years ago from Aunt Hedy!

As the leaves begin to change, it's the perfect time to climb back up our family tree in search of clues to some unsolved mysteries. I did find some puzzle pieces up there, but I need your help in fitting them together:

28 April 1902
Adam Lalensky* (28) of Baba, Poland arrived in NY aboard the Ryndam. The manifest indicated he was going to his brother-in-law, F. Pieloscik (sp?), in Housatonic, MA. (*Actually Adam Zalensky on the manifest.)

17 May 1903
Joseph Grala (17) of Baba, Poland arrived in NY aboard the Arcadia. The manifest indicated he was going to his uncle, Adam Zalesky, in Pittsfield, MA.

13 April 1905
When Maryanna Grala (17) of Baba, Poland arrived in NY aboard the Rhein she was going to her brother Josef Grala in Pittsfield, MA. We've determined she was Bronislaw's sister.

20 November 1906
Dorotea Zalinska (38) of Baba, Poland arrived in NY aboard the Oldenburg. The manifest indicated she was going to her husband, Adam Zalenski, in Pittsfield, MA. [This is Dorotea Pielosick.]

19 February 1912
Branislauf Grala (20) of 86 Turner Avenue, Pittsfield, MA married Theophila Rogowska (18) in Housatonic, MA. (86 Turner Avenue was the home of none other than Adam Zalinsky!)

Based on these clues, Aunt Joan and I feel certain that Josef Grala and Adam Zalinsky are related to us in some way ... that perhaps we have more relatives waiting to be found. Afterall, Baba isn't that big a place for so many Gralas to be unrelated! But who is Adam Zalesky and and how is he connected to our family history?

If anyone can help us solve this mystery, we'd appreciate hearing from you!

What's in a name?

2011-04-06T17:10:00.000-05:00

While surfing genealogical web sites I came across the Gen Dobry Newsletter and wrote to it's editor, Fred Hoffman, to compliment him on the newsletter and get myself on his mailing list. Fred is the author of Polish Surnames: Origins and Meanings.

In my email, I asked if he'd ever come across the Grala surname. I never expected him to reply and was amazed at the following response. I hope you find it as fascinating as I did!

Dear Judi:

Back in 2000, a lady named Karen Main (Mainkx@ci.denver.co.us) wrote to ask me about this name. I doubt that email address is still good, but most of the answer I gave her is worth repeating. So I'll repeat it below, modified with some additional info I've picked up since 2000. Karen said of an ancestor (her grandfather, I think):

"The name he took or used or was given in the U.S. was "Grala". My mother says that he hailed from the Carpathian mountain region. She discovered an article in National Georgraphic that described a Polish clan that went by the name of "Gorale" (hyphen over the "o")."

The Gōrale are not really a clan, but rather a kind of sub-culture of Polish mountainmen in southern and eastern Poland, especially the Carpathian region. Because of their geographic isolation they developed a rather insular community with their own customs and such, kind of like the mountain men in the U.S., except they have persisted for centuries.

It's possible a name like Gōral (the singular of Gōrale) could be modified into Grala. Poles pronounce Gōral "GOOR-all," and from that to Grala, "GRAH-lah," is not too big a jump. I've certainly seen names distorted a lot more than that.

I should point out, however, that GRALA is a legitimate Polish name in its own right, seen in records from as far back as 1385. As of 1990, according to the database at http://www.herby.com.pl/indexslo.html (which covered about 94% of the population of Poland), there were 2,739 Polish citizens named GRALA. The largest numbers lived in the following provinces: Kalisz 234, Katowice 212, Lodz 327, Ostroleka 308, Poznan 187 and Sieradz 119.

For more recent data (and more accurate) from 2002, see here: http://www.moikrewni.pl/mapa/kompletny/grala.html. It gives the number as 2,940 and shows the name is found all over, with the largest number (267) in Ostroleka, in northeastern Poland. Still, there is not really enough to give you a reliable notion where a specific Grala family came from. Only research into the family history might uncover that. In your case, it's great to know he came from Baba -- but which Baba? There are 8 places in modern Poland named Baba or with Baba as part of their name. I note, however, that the largest, a village of 330 persons, in Ostroleka county -- the same county with the largest number of Gralas. It's not wise to jump to conclusions, but you have to wonder if this is telling us something?

As for the linguistic origin of the name, Polish name expert Prof. Kazimierz Rymut mantions GRALA in his book Nazwiska Polakow (The Surnames of Poles). He says it can come from the German name Grall, or it can also come sometimes from the root "gra" meaning "to play". GRAŁA, with a slash through the L giving it the sound of our W, is a name meaning "player, one who plays an instrument". It's pretty rare, however, since only 24 Poles bore that name as of 1990 (35 as of 2002). Sometimes names with GRAŁA also have forms with plain L, so GRALA and GRAŁA could sometimes be variants of the same basic name.

By the same token, there were 8,439 Poles named Gōral in 2002, living all over Poland, expecially in the south.

I checked for info on the German name GRALL, but found nothing on it. The Duden Familiennamen, a good book on German names, does mention GRAHL, which is prnounced essentially the same. It says that name can come from an old Germanic term meanin "angry", or from an old Germanic term meaning "noise, upror, boisterousness", or from the Middle High German word for "grail", or from a place name such as Graal in the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern region.

So, we have a real variety of possible origns to choose from, all of the plausible. Over the centuries, lots of Germans settled all over Poland, and it's not at all rare to find German names borne by Polish citizens. So GRALA could very well have started our as "(son/kin) of Gral", referring to a German named Grall or Grahl. Perhaps he was an angry sort, maybe he was noisy and boisterous, maybe he came from Graal. Then again, he could have been a native Pole who was a "player" in some sense. There's really no way to say for sure.

I doubt the connection with "Gōral" would prove relevant, unless research into the family history proves that the family originally came from the mountainous regions of southern Poland. I'd go with eithr "son of Gral" or "the player". Rymut seemed to think "son of Gral" was the more likely explanation. But as always, a lot depends on what your research turns up.

That's about all I can tell you. I hope it's some help, and wish you the best of luck with your research.

Fred Hoffman
Author, Polish Surnames: Origins & Meanings

The Baba Homestead

2011-04-06T17:00:00.000-05:00

Baba is located in Ostroleka, a region in the province of Mazowiecki in Northeast Poland. It was a historically significant source of immigrants to the United States, especially to the Polish communities on the East Coast, as well as large Midwestern industrial cities such as Cleveland and Detroit.

During a visit with Aunt Bernice and Uncle Frank, I was shown an oil painting done by their grandson, Eddie, from stories Frank told him about the farm in Baba. We are so fortunate to have this unique glimpse into our family's past!

Bronislaw liked to tell the story of going to the Polish-American Club in New Britain where members would ask each other where they came from ... the hope was to find somebody who had lived in their area of Poland. Evidently, there were not many members from Baba. When Bronislaw would tell where he was from, it never failed that someone would respond, "I know that! But where did you reside?" "BABA," he'd say. Again, "Damn it! But that was only for nine months!"

Letter from "Frankie"

2011-04-06T16:58:00.000-05:00

At a Cousins Reunion, Val suggested we expand our reunion to other branches of the Grala tree. A few days later I sent a note off to Frank Grala, Jr. (Francizek's son) explaining what we'd been up to over the preceeding years, with a copy of our newsletter.

Imagine my surprise when I received his reply. It was of special interest to me for two reasons: I'd found another member of the Grala clan who seemed to love writing as much as I do and discovered where I got that head of red hair I was born with!

Frank's 8-page letter was printed clearly and neatly in fountain pen ... at one point, where the color of ink changes, he writes, "Gee, I ran out of peacock green ink and must continue with blue black." However, there are places where I've added missing words (in parentheses) to make reading go a little easier:

Dear Judi,

Family Tree: This is not a memo but an odyssey. Thus the reply delay. (I) first had to find the lost key to the locked closet door, rattle the skeleton bones, insert a catheter into my brain and put my thoughts of the past together (into) a judicial, memorable presentation.

Gee: What a wonderful surprise to receive a message from a member branch! In my age it was only a small budding tree. Today a large and tall, solid oak tree. I must be living on the second or third floor limbs and do recognize the clan on the tenth floor limbs. But from there to the twelfth floor is a blur.

Observe: New Zealand is where you had experienced one of your happiest moments of your life. (He is making reference to Ralf & I getting married there.) Marvelous! In the early 40s this land was named as (a) rest & rehabilitation center for some U.S. troops returning from a journey visiting an island. The young men dreamed of basking in the sun and exploring the new outer environment. After three days of leisure and free from duties, the atomic bomb strikes again. The order of the day is the usual training, again preparing for another vacation island. The kiwi fruit is delicious. Your chronology of vital events has a GI flavor. Damn good job ... carry on!

Gatherings: The last time I spoke to your parents and the clan was at mother's wake. A year or so later, I received an invitation to attend a party for clan members only at the Crystal Ball Room in New Britain. At the same time, I was accepted as an armed security guard on probation with FBI involvement. Since the Wells Fargo grand robbery in West Hartford (involving a security guard), the FBI came into the picture. My situation (was explained) to Hedy who was to relay the message to the clan (as to) why I was unable to attend.

Grandparents: To emotionalism and stubborn, I think you should add these adjectives: industrious, strong-willed and disciplined. These have been (proven) by the generations as a roll-over from (my) grandparents.

(My grandfather) was sturdy-built with somewhat broad shoulders. The height (was about) 5'7" as (was) Uncle Bronislaw, my father and myself. He had a striking black mustache -- Hitler type. Anybody looking at him would focus on his eyes and mustache first. His looks? Look at Uncle B and you're looking at Grandfather Grala sans mustache. To me, when he was on the horse, the image was as a dignitary which the neighbors did not fail to notice.

Grandmother was to a Mona Lisa type. I don't remember too much of her because I spent most of my time with him (in activities such as) eating homemade cheese in the field. That cheese was damn good and tasty!

During the visit at Baba I had some exploring events, but the one I liked best is named "horse and master." One day, grandfather took Benny and me (around), explaining what we can and cannot do in the area. The last stop was at the barn with a horse. It was also "don't do." I explained my liking the horse because of the color (of its red coat). I once had red hair. At that age, one is only interested in the "cannot do." A few days later, with grandfather in the field, we went to the barn and the horse followed us to an empty wagon. We climbed aboard the wagon with the horse on the side. Benny got on first and I followed with a minor problem. Benny (gave the horse) a sharp slap and we went galloping. Your guess is right ... the horse stopped where the master was working. The next few days both of us had a difficult time sitting down.

I was told by a family member that my father was the youngest of the family and the only one to resemble his mother. It was a puzzle to me why I never met a red hair in the Grala clan until Joseph Gorecki came into the picture. He was a redhead. My parents had some problems with friends (and when) the conversation involved hair, the Gorecki name emerged. Thus, if you know it or not, the red gene is somewhere out there in that tree. At my stage of life I still have not run across a Grala redhead.

My parents:
Frank Grala
Born: December 8, 1898
Place: Same as Uncle B
Married: 1915 New Britain
Died: 1952 New Britain

Rose Swider
Born: 1900 Poland
Died: 1936 New Britain

Oldies but goodies: My father was also a teenager when he first saw Ellis Island in 1913. He was on his way to Lorain, Ohio which proves Uncle B arrived alone. There was a Joseph Gorecki living in New Britain (who) later (became) my godfather, but he was only two years older than my father.

Apparently my father had difficulty adopting to the environment. I don't know if it was the steel mills or coal mines, but I do know it was hard labor. Father got in touch with Gorecki and learned the Hardware City factories were hiring ... especially new arrivals. One item I wish to bring to your attention is (that) a strong bond existed between the two brothers.

44 Orange Street: I was born there on November 30, 1916. Across the street was the Sacred Heart Rectory and on the church property north was the church on Broad Street facing Horace Street facing where Uncle B lived ... about the fourth home.

Years later, when Benny married Pauline, their first living quarters were across the street (from) where Uncle lived. More years later Benny owned a grill and restaurant. I was with Armour & Co. and he was one of my customers.

The next street west was Gold Street where their home was located. Across the street was the church property. On my visits (to see them) I was always treated as a son. Both (brothers) were married here. A Christian mass and burial (was held) for the four of them (and they were buried at the) same cemetery. Both (my father and Uncle B) were church collectors. On Easter and Christmas they wore bright red military-type uniforms as security guards at the tomb and manger.

67 Grove Street: We lived on the third floor facing Orange Street. This is where (we lived when) Uncle B arrived with the children.

Remembering: From the bits of conversations overheard between the brothers, my consensus is that the American dollar was worth a bushel of Poland's zbtys and a better, comfortable living for them (could be found in Poland). We left shortly after (Uncle B and his family) did -- my mother was to lay the ground work. I never learned why father did not come with us. I do know he was attending night school to become a U.S. citizen at the Polish Club. At the same time, the U.S. government was very anxious to have the new arrivals become U.S. citizens. The bonus was if one became a U.S citizen, the spouse became a U.S. citizen also. Thus, my mother became one while in Poland.

Later, I learned the higher-ups at the club convinced my father (that) the future on the horizon would be (an) onerous (one) -- political and economic conditions there were not only (cloudy), but (there was) also a storm (coming). We were ordered to return to the U.S.

Stanley Works: Although I did not graduate with a higher education I had some experience in that field. This will reveal the management's respect for Bronislaw Grala. I graduated high school in 1936 and was seeking a means to continue. (During) the time of the Great Depression, even the dictionary deleted its description of "unemployed" and inserted the word "normal." Yes, Uncle B made arrangements for me to be hired at the plant (in order for me) to continue my education.

Baba: Translation -- female, women, she, etc. They had much difficulty with this word. At that time, the new arrivals in their own conclave environment would meet on weekends, in groups, including all sections. The idea was to find somebody who lived in your (area) of Poland.

The first question would be, "Where are you from?" Answer (father or uncle, "Baba." Again, "Hell, I know that. But where did you reside?" The answer, "Baba." Again, "Damn it! But that was only for nine months."

S.S. Batori: During the recall home, we also boarded it. size? Take your pick (from any) one of Columbus' ships.

Uncle's Travels 1929-1933: Perhaps, but while living with us, the answer is no.

Grala: If you do some research (you) will discover the name is unusual. But the name also has unexplained answers as (is with) the name Smith. Two unmarried brothers named Grala lived in New Britain at that time. Joseph sang in the church choir and Steve worked in the same factory as my father. Steve was a frequent visitor to our home. I never did learn (what) part of Poland they lived (nor did I) learn (of their) family ties (to us). Here is one to ponder before the next chess move.

Gee -- I ran out of peacock green ink and must continue with blue black.

I transferred from the parochial to public school systems. About a week later, one of the teachers called me after a classroom session. She explained (that) because of my name she wanted to know how my cousin was doing in Europe? My answer was positive. She went on (to explain what) maturity (he had) at that age and (that he was) an honor student before the family left the U.S. for Byelo-russia. My only answer was, "Yes ma'am," (before I) walked out confused. It is your move.

In closing: My humble words of dziekuje and bogudzienka plus my own design garden of roses to my uncle and aunt. It is a long list of good deeds, but I must mention some: The night they arrived for my son's wake in 1975 -- he was disabled then -- (they commiserated) with us until closing time. The same at my wife's wake in 1981. Also, since the death of my father in 1952, (they) never missed sending me a Christmas card -- always with positive, handwritten words (of) encouragement. The last time we met in person was at Tony's wife's wake.

Since they would never want to listen to my thank-you after a good deed, I now can speak: Lord, please grant my Uncle Bronislaw and two aunts eternal life, peace and happiness. I pray to thee.

Well: My journey is over and (I'm) back to port. Hope (this) may help in your research.

A family branch,

Frank J. Grala, Jr.

P.S. Your letter and its content are concise, short, understandable and to the point -- wonderful!

Bronislaw Grala & Teofilia Rogowska

2007-01-05T17:13:00.016-05:00

Teofilia Rogowska was born ca. 1894. At the time of her birth her parents, Josef Rogowski and Maryanna Zakryewska [sp?], resided in Lyse, Poland. The only record of siblings found so far is that of Josef Rogowski, age 26 of Lyse, who immigrated to the United States on July 28, 1913 aboard the S.S. Berlin. The manifest shows he was on his way to his brother-in-law, Bronislaw Grala, in Lorain, OH.

LATE BREAKING NEWS ... JANUARY 14, 2012
A death certificate for a man named Joseph John (Rogowski) Rogus may well belong to Teofilia's brother. The record shows he was a retired steel worker living in Wheeling, Ohio, VA. He was born in Poland on 17 Mar 1888 to Mary and Joseph (Rogus) and died 16 Feb 1954. I'll follow up on this lead to see where it brings us!

Bronislaw Grala was living at 86 Turner Ave. in Pittsfield when he met Teofilia. Coincidentally, around the corner from him lived a Leonora Grala and, possibly, her parents Adam and Mary. To date, I have not found if or how they are related to us.

He once told his daughter Bernice that he met Teofilia at a dance, "Teofilia was a tiny woman with long, dark hair and the first time I danced with her I knew she would be my wife."

They married at Corpus Christi Church in Housatonic MA on February 19, 1912 before moving to Lorain, OH where three of their children were born at 2848 Oakwood Ave.: Bronislaw (Benny) Jozef Grala, Jr. on January 20, 1913, Helena (Helen) C. Grala on March 2, 1914 and Bronislawa (Bernice) F. Grala on September 29, 1916. Sometime after Bernice's birth, they moved to 602 E. 32nd Street.

BRONISLAW, TEOFILIA & BENNY

Between 1917-1918 the great Spanish flu pandemic killed more people than did the war. Teofilia became one of Lorain's 200 epidemic victims on November 30, 1918. A snapshot in Bernice's memory brings us to a moment when Teofilia, weak from the birth of her fourth child, and gravely ill with the flu, asks Bronislaw to bring the children into her room. "Sensing he was losing her my father thought he'd go crazy waiting for the doctor to arrive. So many people were sick and there were not enough doctors to tend to them!"

The image of Teofilia with her long, dark hair spread over the stark whiteness of her pillow remained with Bronislaw always. Before he died, he gave Bernice a container filled with dirt he had saved from Teofilia's burial site and asked her to throw some of it into his own grave. The rest, he said, was to be saved for herself.

I shared this poignant story with Benny's daughter, Betty, and appreciated her response: "Grandma Teofilia? Now that's an interesting name! My father used to weep whenever he played a Polish record of a ballad of a mother's love. He said one could only understand the song if one had lost a mother. But he had been so young, how could he remember? Still, it was the one and only thing I knew that brought tears to his eyes."

Gene's daughter, Cynthia, and I concluded that emotionalism - sometimes stubborn - is a reoccuring characteristic of the Grala clan.

After her death, Bronislaw was persuaded by his brother Francizek to relocate to New Britain, CT. Concerned about the burden three children would place on his sister-in-law, he made arrangements for Bernice to stay behind with a family who agreed to raise her. But at the last minute, he decided to visit his daughter to say goodbye. "I am sitting there playing with my toys when I see my father and run to him," Bernice recalls. "He started to cry when I threw my arms around his neck and decided he must keep the children together."

"To emotional and stubborn," commented Frank, Jr. (Francizek's son), "you should add these adjectives: industrous, strong-willed and disciplined. These have been proven by the generations as a rollover from our grandparents."

Imagine the strength and determination it must have taken to pack up and move three small children under such sad circumstances!

LATE BREAKING NEWS ... JULY 22, 2008
A death certificate was found today for Stanislaw Grala, the son of Bronislaw Grala and Teofilia (Rogowski), who was born November 25, 1918 and died May 18, 1919. Case of death was "milk infection", a very common cause of infant deaths at that time ... especially if the birth mother was ill with an infectious disease as was the Spanish flu.

The informant indicated on baby Stanislaw's death certificate was Domonik Rutkowski who, with his wife Michaeline (Krajewski), lived around the corner from Bronislaw and Teofilia at 3115 Elyria Ave. with their 6 children ranging in age from 4-15. Mr. Rutkowski is shown on the 1920 U.S. Census as being employed at the steel plant ... perhaps where Bronislaw also was employed.

Domonik & Michaeline
(Center)

Understandably, Bernice's recollection of that sad time in our family history was through a child's eyes. However, we now know it was baby Stanislaw who was left behind to be raised by another family. While none of their descendants knew about baby Stanislaw, they now know he was a part of their family's history. Whether or not they are related to us remains another mystery to be solved!

Teofilia's story has been added to the Pandemic Influenza Storybook where you'll find personal recollections from survivors, families and friends. Go to www.pandemicflu.gov/storybook.

3115 Elyria Ave. Today

Postcards From the Past

2007-01-05T17:12:00.030-05:00

After their marriage on February 19, 1912 Bronislaw and Teofilia left Pittsfield, MA and headed to Lorain, OH. Benny, Helen and Bernice were born there at 2848 Oakwood Avenue. Sometime later they moved to 602 E. 32nd Street where Stanley was born. After Teofilia's death on November 30, 1918 Bronislaw and his older children went to New Britain, CT where he met and married Maryanna on January 28, 1919.

Baby Stanley was left in the care of Domonik Rutkowski who, with his wife Michaeline (Krajewski), lived around the corner from Bronislaw and Teofilia at 3115 Elyria Ave. Stanley died there on May 18, 1919. Mr. Rutkowski is shown on the 1920 U.S. Census as being employed at the steel plant ... perhaps where Bronislaw also was employed.

BUT WHY LORAIN, OHIO?

We've learned that Bronislaw's sister Maryanna Grala (of Great Barrington, MA) married Stanley Krzynowek (of Lorain, OH) on January 25, 1906. His brother Joseph married Marianna Barsoy on January 30, 1912. This was the month preceding Bronislaw's marriage to Teofilia, so it appears both couples knew each other and may have returned to Lorain together. Joseph died on November 19, 1918. At the time of his death, Joseph was employed by the Clipper Steel Plant and lived at 813 E. 33rd St.

These old postcards from Lorain show us it was a bustling port with industries that would have supported shipbuilding ... like steel mills. With Lake Erie a few blocks away, there were also waterfront parks where Teofilia may have brought her children to play.

Bronislaw Grala & Maryanna Boguslawska

2007-01-04T17:15:00.007-05:00

Maryanna A. Boguslawska was born November 8, 1894. At the time of her birth her parents, Anton Boguslawski and Valeria Grosinska, resided in Grzebsk, Mazowieckie, Poland. While little else is known about Anton and Valeria at this time, it is believed other children included Michael, Wladyslawa and Tadeusz. Maryanna died in New Britain, CT on April 13, 1987.

There are a number of variations on how she and Bronislaw Grala met. One is that he knew her from Poland and another is that they met through a mutual acquaintance in New Britain, CT. When queried about her decision to marry a man who already had a family, she'd say that she loved his children and felt sorry for them because they had no mother. From other stories told by Maryanna, her decision may also have been motivated by the fact that people were already referring to her as an 'old maid.'

They married at Sacred Heart Church in New Britain on January 28, 1919 and lived at 111 North Street where Antonium (Tony) C. Grala was born.

Jadwiga (Hedy) R. Grala was born on February 3, 1921. At the time of her birth the family was living at 104 Gold Street. About 3 months later, the family migrated to Baba, Ostroleka, Mazowiecki, Poland. From the bits of conversation Frank, Jr. (Franciszek's son) overheard between the two brothers, his consensus was that the American dollar was worth a bushel of Polish zloty and that a more comfortable living could be made back in their homeland.

It seems Bronislaw and his family stayed in Baba only long enough to plan their move to Pomorze (where Bronislaw found work as a miner) and make arrangements for their youngest daughter to live with Maryanna's parents in Mlawa. [Go to http://www.mlawa.um.gov.pl/history.htm for some interesting history about Mlawa.] For the next 5-6 years, Hedy's visits with her parents were far and few between. During that time the family moved back to Baba where the family farm was split between Bronislaw and his oldest brother Josef and where Stanislaw (Stanley) E. Grala was born on July 11, 1923.

VALERIA BOGUSLAWSKI

Meanwhile, Hedy came to know and love Antoni and Valeria as her parents. When the day came that she was to leave them to rejoin her real family and begin school she was not happy. But she soon discovered she had a wonderful new house made of logs with a center fireplace [see THE BABA HOMESTEAD]. Just outside the window to her parents bedroom there were cherry trees and a waterfall flowed nearby. Best of all, she realized she now had many brothers and sisters to play with!

It seems Maryanna was not content to stay in Poland and may have been the one to persuade Bronislaw to return to America. He came back to New Britain in April 1928 took a job with Stanley Works until money was saved to bring his family over. Back home in Baba his son, Eugenjusz (Eugene) S. Grala born.

Benny and Helen were the first to be reunited with their father and are listed with him in the 1934 New Britain City directory at 23 Horace Street. With the exception of Bernice, who stayed behind at the family homestead to marry Frank, the rest of his family returned to America in May 1934. They are shown in the 1935 directory as living at 44 Gold Street where Joanna (Joan) A. Grala was born. Bronislaw and Maryanna purchased their home at 40 Gold Street in 1937.

BRONISLAW 1940 and 1946 WITH MARYANNA & STANLEY

MARIANNA & MRS. PIASCZYK

MARIANNA GOES TO WASHINGTON!

DATE & OCCASION UNKNOWN

Uncle Tony

2007-01-04T17:14:00.020-05:00

Anthony C. Grala was born on October 25, 1919 in New Britain, CT to Bronislaw Grala and Maryanna Boguslawska.

Believing a more comfortable living could be made back in his homeland, Bronislaw moved his wife and children to the family farm in Baba, Poland in 1921. They returned to the U.S. on May 15, 1934 aboard the S.S. Kosciuszko.

On November 21, 1942, Tony enlisted in the Army Air Force. After his discharge, he went to work for the Fafnir Bearing Company. He married Pauline A. Olszowy on February 23, 1946. Tony and Pauline eventually built a home in Wethersfield, CT and were married for over 35 years when she died in 1981. On February 14, 1983 he remarried to Mrs. Virginia "Irene" Gawek [pictured above with Tony and his sister, Joan].

Uncle Tony lost his battle with Alzheimer's on May 25, 2010. He enjoyed the outdoors, dancing and children. Though he never had children of his own, his nieces and nephews were blessed with one of the greatest uncles any child could ever have. All of us "kids" who grew up with him have fond memories.

Without a doubt, Uncle Tony spent his "Dash" well. We are sure he was greeted in Heaven by the family he so loved and envy all the Angels who are standing in line to polka with him!

THE DASH

by Linda Ellis

I read of a man who stood to speak

At the funeral of a friend.

He referred to the dates on her tombstone

From the beginning to the end.

He noted that first came her date of her birth

And spoke the following date with tears,

But he said what mattered most of all

Was the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the time

That she spent alive on earth.

And now only those who loved her

Know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not how much we own;

The cars, the house, the cash.

What matters is how we live and love

And how we spend our dash.

So think about this long and hard.

Are there things you’d like to change?

For you never know how much time is left,

That can still be rearranged.

If we could just slow down enough,

To consider what’s true and real

And always try to understand

The way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger,

And show appreciation more

And love the people in our lives

Like we’ve never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect,

And more often wear a smile

Remembering that this special dash

Might only last a little while.

So, when your eulogy is being read

With your life’s actions to rehash

Would you be proud of the things they say

About how you spent your dash?

Uncle Tony's photo gallery & guest book will be on
New Britain Memorial's web site until May 25, 2011.
Click HERE to see it or leave a note.

Uncle Tadek

2007-01-04T17:12:00.000-05:00

Tadeusz S. Boguslawski (Marianna’s brother) was born on November 5, 1918 … most likely in Grzebsk, Mazowieckie, Poland. It appears he was the only sibling to join her in America, arriving here about 1949. So far, we have been unable to find a record of his immigration.

Aunt Joan remembers her mother and Uncle Tadek as being very close. He lived with them at 40 Gold Street when he first arrived and then in the third floor apartment after Stanley and his family moved to Wells Street. He appears at that address in the 1950 New Britain City Directory and is shown as being employed at 45 Grove Street as a sausage maker.

He and Lucy Nadolny married between 1950-1952 and had two children: Irene and Thaddeus, Jr. Around 1955 he went to work for Fafnir Bearing where he retired in 1980.

Uncle Tadek died on October 17, 2002 in Unionville, CT. His obituary noted that he was a WWI Polish Army Veteran who had been a German POW for 10 years.

You've Got Mail!

2007-01-04T17:11:00.000-05:00

Using my guide to Polish letter writing back in May 1996, I sent a letter off to the Archiwow Panstwowych in Warsaw, Poland requesting birth information for Bronislaw and Maryanna.

One year and a move to North Carolina passed before I received a reply – IN POLISH! So it sat in a desk drawer until the following summer when I met my friend’s brother, Fred Ruland. Fred, who teaches at the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw, isn’t Polish but speaks, reads and writes the language and (bless his heart) wishes he was Polish.

In essence, the letter advised that a certificate of birth had been found for Marianna Boguslawska as well as the certificate of marriage for her parents Antoniego and Walerii Grosinskich. If I’d be interested in receiving a copy of the documents there would be a $50 fee. As Fred was planning a trip to Warsaw he offered to take my money and go after the documents. Needless to say, we waited in excited anticipation until Fred’s package arrived – inside were certified photocopies of marginal quality and written IN RUSSIAN! It seemed there was little hope of getting them translated.

Fast forward to the summer of 2000 when I was introduced to Helen Barseghan, a young lady visiting from Russia. Helen’s major at university was Russian languages and she kindly offered to translate the documents as best she could. Here goes:

Took place in the village Grzebsk in January 29/February the day 10th, 1892 year at 5 o’clock noon. Announced in presence of Ludovik Endjersky and Tomaliya Karsjewska 40 years old, the land owners in Movsivsi as well as residents over there. On this date has been announced a religious marriage union between Anton Bogoslovsky, single, 23 years old, son of Yan and Eva Bogoslovsky. Eva has known by her maiden name Yankovskaya before she got married. Both were born in Grzebsk . Valeria Grinskaya being 17 years old, daughter of Andrei and Ekaterina, landowners that were born in Movsivsi and whose marriage has been registered and announced in Grzebsk/periodic on Sunday, January 5th, then Sunday 12th and Sunday 18th of current year. Bride’s father was present on the ceremony and has announced his agreement in loud voice. Couple has said that the marriage contract didn’t take place between them. The ceremony performed by K. Dionis Morjevsky, official in Grjebsk. Act has been read in loud voice for illiterate ones and has been signed. The keeper and administrator or civil committee of Grzebsk : K. Dionis Morjevsky.

Took place in the village Grzebsk in October 30th/October 30th day, 1834 year at 5 o’clock noon. Anton Bogoslovsky was present, blacksmith and resident in Grzebsk , 24 years old. In presence of Mihail Kachmarchik 16 years old, Peter Matusyak 12 years old, land owners and residents in Grjebsk. The new born baby was introduced, girl was born in Grzebsk in October 27th/November 8th day of current year at 7 o’clock. The mother of the baby his official wife Valeria by maiden name Grosinsvska 21 years old. During the holy baptism the baby was named Mariana. The ceremony was ruled by K. Dionis Morjevsky. Yan and Katerjinna Grosinvskie. This act has been read in a loud voice for illiterate ones and announced by me (signature). The keeper and administrator of civil Committee in Grzebsk : K. Dionis Morjevsky.

When You Are Old

2007-01-04T17:10:00.000-05:00

When you are old and gray and full of sleep,
And nodding by the fire, take down this book,
And slowly read, and dream of the soft look
Your eyes had once, and of their shadows deep;

How many loved your moments of glad grace,
And loved your beauty with love false or true,
But one man loved the pilgrim soul in you,
And loved the sorrows of your changing face;

And bending down beside the glowing bars,
Murmur, a little sadly, how Love fled
And paced upon the mountains overhead
And hid his face amid a crowd of stars. -- W.B. Yeats

AUGUST 10, 1985 - STANLEY'S WEDDING & MAY 1986 - WITH RALF

NOVEMBER 3, 1985 - 91st BIRTHDAY

NOVEMBER 10, 1991 - PAM'S WEDDING

"Oma," asked Ralf, "Do you know how to disco?"

"Shuu," she replied, "Dis go dis way ... dat go dat way!"

Hey STELLLAAA!

2007-01-04T17:09:00.003-05:00

It's driving me crazy!

We've finally figured out who Philadelphia Stella is ... we've even been in contact with her great grandaughter, Bernice (Stasik) Bowman ... but we still don't know HOW, exactly, Stella Muchorski is related to her cousin Maryanna Boguslawski!

Stella was born in Poland about 1897 and immigrated to the US in 1913. She married Jan Pawlowski in Philadelphia, PA in 1914. Jan was born in Mlawa, Poland on June 24, 1889.

They had five children: Leonard, Sophia, Joseph, Helen and Edward ... all born in Philadelphia between 1915-1925. Their daughter Helen married Bronislaw (Bennie) Stasik who operated a grocery store in Philadelphia. Helen and Bennie had two children: Bernice and George.

From family pictures and snippets of information, we know Helen and Bennie paid a number of visits to New Britain and are shown in this picture with Benny (back row), Bernice & Frank (standing right) and Hedy (kneeling front).

Based on the similar settings of the photos below, the woman sitting to the right of Maryanna may well be her cousin Stella, as they appear to be close in age.

Gold Street Snippets

2007-01-04T16:00:00.001-05:00

THE KITCHEN & GARDEN While browsing through an antique shop in Coventry, CT years ago, Ralf and I came upon a kitchen table with an enamel surface and ornate carved oak base. Deco in the design stamped on its top, it had a small silverware drawer and two leaves that pulled out to extend the table’s size. As we turned to walk away from it, a wave of memories from the kitchen at 40 Gold Street washed over me and tears came to my eyes. Embarrassed, I rushed out of the shop and we went home. Later that day, Ralf disappeared for a couple of hours and returned with the table because, “I couldn’t walk away from something that made you so happy!”

My kitchen table was manufactured by Tepco in the 50s and is signed by "Montanari." It became our computer desk and has been spread with a feast of family photographs waiting to be served up on the family site. I’m sure you also have wonderful memories of Gold Street and am hoping these pictures and emails between Aunt Joan, Cookie, Cynthia and me bring them back for you. If you have any "snippets" of your own that you'd like to share, send them to me at heit@pamlico.net:

JUDI: You told me once that you have Bobchi's rocking chair. Can you take a picture of it for the Gold Street Snippets page?

CYNTHIA: The rocking chair is buried in the garage. It’s an item my husband has wanted to toss for years and is in two pieces. You'd be surprised how small it is. It has a bowed back with straight spindles … maple maybe … simple. It had been repaired at one time with a giant screw to hold it together. I remember it by the stove, adorned by so many homemade pads of different patterned materials that you couldn’t see the spindles. The sewing machine? Hmmmmmm … was it a paddle, rod iron peddle with oak cabinet, pop-up sewing machine tucked inside? If it is, I know where to find it … if it’s still there. My mother or sister had it … it could be in my mom’s attic IF my dad hasn’t thrown it away by now! (This pillow was on the rocking chair when Cynthia took it home. Judi has it now.)

JUDI: Could you also remind me where you found that painting you sent me by Aunt Hedy? It’s really quite nice. I didn’t realize she could paint so beautifully!

CYNTHIA: That painting was in a closet with photos left in the apartment when the house was sold. There were also some mail tags to send packages overseas, an 8x10 picture of Jesus, miscellaneous foreign tags … just a big envelope of that stuff. I kept it all. One other thing my brother has … and everyone should remember this … is the framed picture of JFK! Do you remember that on the wall? Another memory that comes to mind is a picture that hung in the hallway of a girl with ribbons in her hair. It was one of those weather indicators, meaning the ribbons changed colors with the weather. I don’t recall seeing Hedy’s painting on the wall. I wonder if Joey remembers it?

COOKIE: I remember Bobchi and Dziadziu’s kitchen … and the brown enamel top table … and two brown-tone chairs with the imprinted decals and seat cushions. I see those tables occasionally in antique stores (antiquing is one of our hobbies) and it always brings to mind that kitchen. I don’t remember the sewing machine, but I remember a whole bunch of straight back chairs cluttered everywhere because we were there for holidays when everyone would stop by to visit. They always gave us a dollar for Christmas when we came Christmas Eve. I remember Joey and a lot of other children (you guys I guess), but not any one in particular. I remember all the kids playing in that cold living room when the very hot kitchen overflowed with adults.

I do remember going to Naugatuck, playing in Ciocia Hedy’s garden and coming eye-to-eye with one of those great big tomato worms. Ugh! I will never forget that.

After my father died, when my kids were small, I was visiting Gold Street (I always tried to keep the kids in touch with Bobchi and Dziadziu … they still remember some) and Bobchi gave me the cookie jar from the top of her refrigerator. I was astounded to get such a precious gift from her. I was devastated to realize that when I got home to Colchester, in trying to get two toddlers out of the back of the car, I broke the top of the cookie jar. I just burst into tears … it had been such a wonderful gesture … I treasure the memory and wish I still had it now.

I also remember a grapevine and arbor in the back yard … something I have been nagging at my husband for years to build me. I always thought that sitting and playing underneath was so great. But it couldn’t have been … because the seats were just old green wooden planks. They couldn’t have been that comfortable.

STANLEY (GRALA): I used to play with my Matchbox cars on that table! Bobchi kept some of those cars at her house for me to play with when we visited her. That pattern on top made a great road!

AUNT JOAN: Just to let you know, Pam has the table and chairs in her kitchen and uses it daily (that's Marissa sitting underneath it). When you all were kids, did any of you sit under the table when the elders would talk? Genia and I would be under there laughing and sometime eating something we shouldn't have. Like at Easter time we ate a lot of the egg whites but not the yellow centers. We did get sort of sick, but not as bad as when Babci and Dziadzi used the leather strap on our butts!

Or the time Judi put a tiny button from Babci's million-button tin in her nose and had to be brought to the hospital to have it taken out. You made it Judi, but not without crying (you cutie you). We did worry a lot and prayed, of course.

Cookie you don't remember the sewing machine because Babci had so much stuff on there you couldn't see it. I'm glad it's somewhere with the family. Oh yes, Cookie, the cold living room: When we had the family there on Sundays, we would lay on the floor to listen to the Inner Sanctum with the squeaking door that scared us. (Remember that old radio? Lorraine has it.) Another must on Sunday was the Polish music and news program.

I could tell you something else that was funny. Somewhere in the kitchen, probably on part of the sewing machine, there was an old Victrola with a crank handle. Genia and I had to operate it while Gene and Stanley learned how to dance. They had a "how to" dance book and we had to keep turning that handle! We could not stop laughing and turn at the same time. We did get a lot of dirty looks from them. Then Uncle Benny would pop in, like he did often, and gave them some dancing pointers.

JUDI: I remember that old dance book! My Dad used to have it.

AUNT JOAN: Auntie Hedy did have a nice garden and was always proud of it. She too was a wonderful, loving and caring person. You could just love her over and over again. She enjoyed family no matter what. I guess you had quite a scary experience, Cookie, with the tomato worms. “Ugh” is a good word for them.

I had part of Babci and Dziadzi's grapevine in Williamsburg, because it meant so much to me. Because the kids were still in school when I moved to the condo in Easthampton, there was no place for it and no one to take it. It must still be growing there. Hopefully it's out in the open in the back of our old house and that Bobchi is not sad we don't have it. It does bother me though (gosh)!

Yes, Cookie, the grape arbor was a lot of fun. It was long and at the end had a little shed. Genia and I would stand on the long benches and, while the grapes were NOT ripe, we would throw them at one another. When they were ripe we would squeeze the grape with our thumb and pointer finger to put the fruit in our mouth and throw the outer skin at one another. We were troublesome for Babci and Auntie Broncia. Genia and I were 6 months apart in age. Of course I was the "older one."

JUDI: Here's a picture of the grape arbor ... sort of!

AUNT JOAN: And how about the tall Sunflowers? Babci wouldn't let us pick them and, of course, they were too high so we couldn't. But when they were ripe she would take them down, get the seeds out and put them in a bowl for us to munch. Need you ask what we did with the shells? Only one guess for each of you. Yep, you are all right!!!! Genia and I did learn how to run fast. That strap hurt. But it was a love spanking. SURE!!!!

CYNTHIA: This is too much fun! Do you see me smiling? I am so glad that Pam has that table …I can see it clearly. I was also a visitor to the bottom table shelf! I remember the feeling of being there, almost, or maybe I was invisible. No one seemed to give it a thought! Maybe Diane and I chuckled under there, played a game or were just silly.

Now that you mention the sewing machine, with heaps of stuff on top of it, I think I can see it in the kitchen ... near the pantry by the window. I am also glad that the radio still exists. I don't ever remember us using it. I think it either didn't work or we weren't allowed to touch it. I remember always looking at it!

These are precious moments that we have preserved in our minds and hearts. They make me laugh out loud, whether they are your memories or mine! I love to think of my dad learning to dance in the kitchen. He IS a good dancer!!!

COOKIE: Joan, I'm glad that you're kids have that stuff, just like my kids have my stuff. Yes, I do remember being under that kitchen table … it had that flat part where you could almost sit. I do remember the shed at the end of the grape vine and listening to Inner Sanctum.

It must be in the blood: You saved a piece of the grapevine and I tried saving some small apple trees. Because we moved five times, I ended up losing them or the deer would pull them out of the ground. But I still have one mountain laurel bush that had been growing at the edge of the woods by the side of the orchard. People tell me that Mountain Laurel is difficult to move, but I have moved it to its fourth home and it has survived every move since 1978. Of course it’s a little stunted and now I have to protect that from the deer too. But I have it and hope to have it for many, many years.

JUDI: I remember a small garden area and grapevine arbor in the back yard. There may also have been some fruit trees in there. Standing on the back porch, it was to the right, located between the house and small shed and bordered by a short picket fence. (At the back of the paved lot was a multiple-car garage.) Also in the backyard, along the left property line, was a lovely shrub with cascading white flowers ... I remember it as the Bridal Veil Bush (or something like that) and have one similar to it in my turnaround. Lovely to look at come Spring. I think there was also a walnut tree or something back there that bore a nut encased in a round, prickly outer coating.

Their house was heated by coal and we used pieces of it to play hopscotch ... our hands would get filthy! I remember so vividly Bobchi standing me on a chair in front of the sink and washing my hands with what may have been homemade lye soap. Before bedtime she'd get me cleaned up in a nice warm bath, wrap me up in her old chenille robe and settle me into the rocking chair by the stove. So warm and cozy ... it wasn't long before I'd drift off to sleep.

One of my childhood playmates was Veronica Parciak who lived next door to the right and whose parents owned the little grocery store at the corner. There were two multiple family houses on the lot to the left. I remember there was a family living in the one at the back but don’t think we were allowed to play with them for some reason. We certainly were not allowed to go past Aunt Helen's house ... I think there was a gang's hangout down there (perhaps The Lords or something like that) on the corner!

In the summer Bobchi would bring us up to Washington Park to swim. We'd stop along the way to visit some people, but I don't remember if they were family ... perhaps Gorecki's? And who could forget the carnival every year across the street in the church parking lot or the man with the horse-drawn fruit cart? He'd shout out what he had on his cart that day and people would stream out of their houses to buy fresh produce!

COOKIE: I remember all but the shrub. My cousin Greg (from my mother’s side) worked at that grocery store for his first job. It WAS the Lords … and later the Earls. And there was also a “regs-pa-dek” man … the rag man who would holler from his truck. I don’t remember him from “your end” of Gold Street, but I can remember him when visiting at the other end.

CYNTHIA: Do you see this great big smile on my face? Yes, I remember the table and was definitely a visitor to the shelf under it! Christmas Eve and the dollar … I think Dziadzi used to even give us a kiss! And then that cold, cold living room … how many people were in that house on a Sunday afternoon? I remember the grapevine, and garden and planks. It was a good place! We always had a grape arbor, even at our home on Erwin Place. To this day, I've had a grapevine! Not as impressive as the one on Gold Street, but it brings back memories! I love all these special memories, they are unique and yet the same.

DINNER IS SERVED Aunt Joan, do you have Bobchi’s recipes for golumbki and kapusta?

AUNT JOAN: Here are Bobchi’s recipes. You know how the old-timers did it … nothing timed and/or measured. When Bobchi showed me the measurements, it was in her cupped hand:

GOLUMBKI (from Babci May 1971)
Cooked cabbage, drained & cooled (don't overcook)
1 lb. each of pork, veal & beef mixed together
3 eggs
1 stick butter
2 onions, chopped
3 stalks celery, chopped
Salt pork (about 3 strips cut in pinky-finger tips)
Salt & pepper
1-1/2 to 2 cups cooked rice (don’t overcook)
Tomato soup and water (2 cans soup to 1 can water)
1 chicken cube
½ stick butter

Melt butter in large frying pan. Saute onions & celery. Brown the salt pork & add to frying pan. Sautee all together until pork is light brown. Set aside to cool.

Put 3 eggs in the meat mixture. Add salt, pepper, rice & sautéed mixture. Blend all ingredients with your hands.

Taking one cabbage leaf at a time, Bobchi sliced the thick core end of each leaf at an angle to make it thinner. Then she took some meat mixture in her hand to fit into the leaf. From the core end she would fold it over about ¼ of the meat mixture, then right side to center (or wherever it would come to), then left side to center, then take the core end of the golombki and turn or roll the whole meat section to the unused end of the cabbage. Place the golumbki in the pot from the outside edge to the center. The loose end of the cabbage should be placed down so it will not unravel while cooking. Doing the second row, do not put the golumbki on top of the first row but in between … from outside edge of the pot to the center.

When all the golumbki were placed in the pot, Bobchi would take the remaining leaves and cover the golumbki. On top of the leaves add tomato soup mixed with water and chicken cube. Dot with ½ stick butter. Cover the pot and bring it to an easy boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours.

KAPUSTA (given to me January 14, 1973)
1 large can sauerkraut, drained & rinsed
2T barley
2 chicken cubes
1 stick butter
1 large head cabbage
Cooked pork pieces
Pepper to taste
1 bay leaf

Drain and rinse sauerkraut. Squeeze out excess liquid and put in a large pot with the barley, chicken cubes & butter.( Bobchi would shred the cabbage by cutting it at an angle … not too thin. Salt it lightly and add to the pot. Then she would add some pork pieces - partially or fully cooked or browned.) Pepper to taste and add bay leaf. Cover and simmer 1-1/2 to 2 hours.

CYNTHIA: Yum!!!! I’m going to try this. I love stuffed cabbage and have a variation of this recipe. My husband (Dave) always loved Bobchi’s Golombki and cabbage soup. When we first met (this would have been around 1970ish), I would bring him to Bobchi and Dziadzi’s … just the two of us … around Christmas. Bobchi loved giving Dave food. I’m hungry right now for it!!

AUNT JOAN: For the Kapusta, add some water to make soup. As you know, Bobchi’s soup was thick. She also made Kapusta that we had with kielbasa or hot dogs. She usually made this in a big pot, so we could have it over and over again with everything she prepared and probably to Uncle Benny’s when we had our picnics there. He liked it when the family was around him. I remember the picnic table with roof and homemade fire pit for the baked potatoes. They usually came out black and we’d put them in bushel bags to shake them clean. But our mouths were always black. Somewhere is a picture of Genia, me and either Stanley or Carol Cisz pretending to play guitar. Uncle Benny would show us the rocks where he said snakes would lay to sun themselves. We all ate, sang and walked around. We had so much fun … weren’t we the lucky ones?

CYNTHIA: I’m mixed up! Where was the picnic spot? I thought it was in Newington. I remember Uncle Benny telling us about the snakes … wasn’t there also a pond with fish? Unlike Kathee, I don’t think I was fond of the critters. But it was a beautiful spot … the warm sun on my skin … the easy feeling of just being with everyone. I was always with Diane or Irene. It sees I have so many memories. I don’t ever want to forget. Oh, kielbasa! It’s one of my dishes that comes out really good. Especially if you use Martin Rosol’s kielbasa.

AUNT JOAN: Cynthia, you just have a way about yourself … don’t ever change, OK? I’m sure Cookie will tell you Newington was the spot. And you do have a good memory.

COOKIE: We used to buy gold fish to put in the pond. Occasionally they would last through the winter and we would be amazed at how large they grew. We were always concerned that there was no one to feed them, but my father convinced us they would be fine … and they were! And, yes, the picnic spot was in Newington and was enjoyed even before the orchard was planted. Cynthia, I don’t buy anything else but Martin Rosol’s. You’re right … it’s the best!

SMUDGY Here's another blast from the past courtesy of Cousin Cynthia. (And here I thought pudgy little Smudgy was a figment of my childhood imagination!)

EASTER 2007 Cookie and her daughter, Heather, have been busy baking Babka (something they do twice a year) for their Easter celebration at Broni's house. They make 6 loaves at a time ... 2-3 are blessed when they bring their Swieconka to church for Holy Saturday morning. On Good Friday, she'll cook her Martin Rosol kielbasa ("Absolutely the best!"), will put boiled eggs inside the ring and decorate it with parsley. Then she'll carve her Paschal Lamb (pictured) and will add a dish of salt. (In case you've forgotten what the Swieconka is, go to http://www.polishamericancenter.org/Swieconka.htm for a refresher!)

COOKIE: To carve the lamb, I start with four sticks of regular butter (put one in the freezer until you're ready for it). Place two sticks on the bottom and one on top, with about a third hanging over the edge. If the butter gets too soft, you need to refrigerate it again. For the "curls", put some chunks of the frozen butter into a nut grinder (the type that you turn by hand) and grind them right onto your lamb. Be careful that the butter stays frozen ... once it softens you won't get any curls. If you need to be more precise about placing the curls, use a toothpick. Decorate with cloves or peppercorns for eyes and parsley for the grass.

AUNT JOAN: The Paschal Lamb (Baranek) symbolizes the Risen Christ who is the Lamb of God; kielbasa ... the circle of life; eggs ... life and rebirth; bread ... the bread of life; and salt for substenance ... a reminder of what life here on Earth can be ("... or perhaps how we enhance it.").

Bobchi's loved preparing for this blessed holiday. Then the Catholic priest and his assistant would come to the house and bless the food ... there was always money put under the dish for the priest. To color the eggs, she boiled them with cut red onions which colored them purple. The kielbasa was served with red horse radish, of course, and her Sweiconka decorated the table.

"She baked tons of bread which you could smell baking as you came up the stairs. One of the beds had towels on it and breads turned upside down to cool."

JUDI: I wish we had her recipe for Makowiec (poppy seed bread). Found a recipe on line that called for 1 lb. of poppy seeds! That's a big bag of seeds, isn't it? I wonder if Bobchi simply bought it pre-made at that Polish bakery on the corner of Broad and Washington Streets!

SACRED HEART SCHOOL was built in 1910 and was a state of the art educational facility for its time. But for Irene Boguslawski and me, it was home to "Leo" .... a nutty kid who had us convinced that he was a vampire living in the school basement. I remember a day he was chasing us down Gold Street when suddenly a downpour of water erupted from Bobchi's front porch on the 2nd floor. While I don't recall what she yelled down at the stunned little monster, I do know that Irene and I were thankful to have escaped the clutches of evil once again.

CHURCH BAZAAR & THE CHICKEN MAN Do any of you remember the old Sacred Heart School and the inside activities they had there?" asked Cookie. They had booths and a game of chance where you paid money, poked holes into a cardboard square and punched out a crumpled little paper that told you what prize you won.

They also had the school Christmas pageants there every year ... up on the third floor. My cousins from my mother's side were in it and I still remember the girls all dressed in white singing Gloria in Excelsius (sp?) and raising their arms higher and higher as they sang louder and louder! One year, my cousin Greg (a classmate of Stan Cisz and Sacred Heart School graduate) was a shepherd and his chicken got loose on the stage! Remember the chicken stores on lower Broad and Lafayette ... where all the chickens were in cages.

JUDI: I used to look forward to that bazaar. I remember the "wheel of fortune" cost a dime. I put mine down on a number and Bobchi persuaded me to move it. I WON and think my prize was a layer cake! I still joke that the only prize I've "won" since is Ralf! There was an old, white-haired man that hung around there ... perhaps a bit worn around the edges. Of course, Bobchi forbid us from going anywhere near him. But I recall that, for some reason, Irene and I were intrigued by him.

COOKIE: Just had lunch with my cousin Greg. I asked him if he recalled a gray-haired man that used to hang around the school and neighborhood. He remembers him as "Crazy Al" ... they used to call him "Olesh" ... and thinks his last name was Bogucki or something like that. Al was very strange ... almost autistic. He could name all the capitols of all the states and list things that you would never think to be important. The kids would tease him and he'd get really mad. Greg recalls Al saying, "You think you're so smart? Let's see you do this!" And he would throw a stone really high in the air.

AUNT JOAN: You're right ... his name was Al. But for short we called him "Flaha" ... an awful Polish name (I'm not sure what it means)

I was also a Sacred Heart student and participated in the pageant as an angel ... I loved to sing in Polish. We stood on tiered benches set up in the back (I was on the top bench), the curtains were closed and the nuns were trying to keep us all quiet. I could hardly wait for those curtains to open so I could waive to Dziadzi. (He was quite involved in the church as an usher.) It was dark, but somehow I could make him out standing back there. When we were done with the hustle and bustle, I couldn't wait for someone to take my wings off so I could run to Dziadzi, take his hand and go home together!

JUDI: I do recall that Dziadzi was a church collector at the church and that he’d go there on Saturday afternoons, taking me along. We’d walk hand-in-hand up Gold Street, around the corner to Broad and climb the step, marble stairs leading to the church. To me, that walk took forever and I (also) loved holding his hand. Once inside, he’d lift me up so I could reach the Holy Water. We’d walk down to the altar where he’d reach into his pocket and draw out coins to pay for the candles we lit together, “This is in memory of our dearly departed.” Occasionally, he would simply give me the coins, leaving me at the candles while he went off to take care of church business. Upon his return, he’d find that I had lit ALL the candles, “Judita! How many dead souls can a little girl know!?!” Bobchi would laugh as if it was the first time she heard Dziadzi tell her about it. But, OH, you guys cannot imagine how beautiful it was to see all those candles glowing bright red at the feet of the Virgin Mary!

CYNTHIA: Cookie, I remember the chicken stores and live chickens in the store front window … I’m thinking High Street on top of Broad. I’ll have to let you in on an incident about the chickens: Once, I don’t know what time of year, our dog Lady (a black collie-type dog) got loose. We were worried about her until here she comes, prancing up Erwin Place with a live chicken in her mouth! My mom said she got it on Broad Street. We were petrified that the dog officer would take her away! It’s a laugh now, but it wasn’t funny when it happened. Except for the scare, I don’t think anything happened to us about the dead chicken … or maybe my parents paid for it!

COOKIE: Cynthia, the chicken store was probably the only place your dog could hunt in the city. Good story!

AUNT JOAN: Judi, what beautiful memories we all have! That is so nice to hear again about Dziadzi and Bobchi. Dziadzi loved the church. When he came home after church, he would sit in his rocking chair and sing the whole mass in Latin. What a wonderful honor he had for his God and church and family. He had such a good voice!

PACKAGES TO POLAND And who could forget all the clothing Bobchi would collect for shipment to our relatives in Poland? Pouring over some mystery photos we've been trying to identify from the Old Country, Aunt Joan remarked, "I can't identify them, but I'm sure they have some of our clothes on!"

AUNT JOAN: We really were not familiar with all of our relatives in Poland. Mama received most of the pictures, but they were not always marked on the back with who the people were. Some of these mystery photos could be her nieces and nephews. They all lived in the same area and Bobchi would try to make them all happy. She made package after package of clothing until her hands were sore ... sewing the cloth bundles with her large needle and thick thread. She sewed money into the hems or wherever she thought the border patrol would not rip the bundles apart and take the money for themselves. The boxes were heavy. Thank goodness the Polish postal place was on Broad Street because we had to carry the packages over there!

Ship's Log

2007-01-03T22:00:00.010-05:00

Bronislaw was 18 when he first saw Ellis Island in 1909. I've imagined that he must have he felt the same mixture of exhilaration and relief as that recalled by an Italian immigrant in the book Ellis Island:

"Passengers all about us were crowding against the rail. Jabbered conversation, sharp cries, laughs, cheers and a steady rising din filled the air. Mothers and fathers lifted up their babies so that they too could see. Off to the left the Statue of Liberty, looming shadowy through the mist, brought silence to the decks of our ship. This symbol of America ... this enormous expression of what we had all been taught ... was the inner meaning of this new country we were coming to. It inspired awe in the hopeful immigrants." (Click on the picture of Ellis Island!)

Searching for family members among the immigrants who crowded against those rails has been a quest that began over 20 years ago. Back then, one had to travel to libraries, squint at microfilm readers, write away for a vital document and wait patiently for its arrival ... often to receive a letter saying no record could be found! Today, the internet [particularly sites like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org and EllisIsland.org] gives us fast access to genealogical records and more, making research easy, fun and instantly gratifying!

A file has been created at EllisIsland.org where you can view actual ship manifests for our family members. Please contact me for access information. Names as indicated below are as they appear on the manifests:

April 13, 1905 Maryanna Grala arrived in New York aboard the S.S. Rhein. She was going to her brother Josef Grala in Pittsfield, MA.

May 22, 1909 Bronislaw Grala arrived in New York aboard the S.S. Kaiserin Auguste Victoria which departed from Hamburg, Germany. This ship was the largest in the world until the Lisitania. Ship's manifest indicated that he was going to his brother-in-law, Josef Krsynowski, in Housatonic, MA. UPDATE: Actually Joseph Krzynowek, the brother of Stanley who married Maryanna Grala [see Maryanna Grala].

December 28, 1910 Teofila Rogowska [Bronislaw's 1st wife] arrived in New York aboard the S.S. Rijndam which departed from Rotterdam, Holland. Ship's manifest indicated that she was going to her brother-in-law, St. Horonzy, in Housatonic, MA. May 12, 1912 Maryanna Boguslawska [Bronislaw's 2nd wife] arrived in New York aboard the S.S. Amerika which departed from Hamburg, Germany. Ship's manifest indicated that she was going to her uncle, Stanislaw Boguslawski, in Tariffville, CT.

Early 1921 Bronislaw and Maryanna moved the family back to Baba, Poland about 3 months after the birth of their daughter Hedy. Shortly thereafter Bronislaw's brother, Francizek, sent his wife and children to join them. Franciszek stayed behind as he was attending night school to become a U.S. Citizen. [NOTE: Record not yet found online.]

September 13, 1922 Rosalja, Frank, Helena and Genowfa returned to the U.S., arriving in New York aboard the S.S. Polonia which departed from Danzig, Poland. Ship's manifest showed they were going to Franciszek at 22 Grove St., New Britain, CT.

April 23, 1928 Bronislaw returned to the U.S. ahead of his family, arriving in New York aboard the S.S. Frederick VIII which departed from Copenhagen, Denmark. Ship's manifest showed that he was going to his brother Franciszek in New Britain, CT.

August 24, 1930 Bronislaw Jr. and Helena were the first to be reunited with their father. They arrived in New York aboard the Hellig Olav which departed from Copenhagen, Denmark and were coming to their father at 25 Silver St., New Britain, CT.

May 15, 1934 Marjanna, Antoni, Stanislaw, Jadwiga and Eugenjusz arrived back in New York aboard the S.S. Kosciuszko which departed from Gdynia, Poland.

January 15, 1939 Bronislawa and her daughter Eugenia boarded the S.S. Stefan Batory in Gydnia, Poland and arrived back in New York. They were headed to her parents at 40 Gold St. in New Britain. Her husband Frank, who was in the Polish army, stayed behind and was not reunited with his family until 9 years later.

January 17, 1948 After 9 long years, Franciszek Niedbala is reunited with his wife Bronislawa and daughter Eugenia. He departed from Gydnia, Poland and arrived in New York aboard the S.S. Stefan Batori. Frank was the last of our family members to leave the Baba homestead.

This is the last page of our Ship's Log. All family members accounted for!

Click here to learn more about Ellis Island: www.historychannel.com/ellisisland/gateway/inspectors.

Visit With Uncle Franek

2007-01-03T20:00:00.001-05:00

This narrative is based on Cookie’s visit with Uncle Frank Niedbala on February 5, 2007. (With related facts collected by Judi.)

(Bronislaw and his family left New Britain, CT and returned to Poland about 1921.) They were able to buy a large farm with animals and machinery and had a fairly good life there. But the Polish economy became very unstable … land prices were fluctuating and people were paying a lot of money for it.

Maryanna convinced him to sell the farm, which he did. But Bronislaw didn't turn the money over fast enough and within just a few weeks the money he held in hand was almost worthless, leaving him with enough to buy one cow. His father divided a portion of his land with rope and gave it to (Bronislaw and his brother, Jozef). On it they grew vegetables for trade and personal consumption but it was hardly enough to feed all of them.

(It would appear this is actually why the decision was made to come back to the U.S. Bronislaw returned ahead of his family on April 23, 1928 and after a couple of years sent for his three oldest children; Bronislaw Jr. and Helen joined their father on August 24, 1930 while Bernice stayed behind to marry Frank; Maryanna, Tony, Stanley, Hedy and Eugene arrived on May 15, 1934.)

(One evening in 1934,) just two weeks before the family was to leave for America, Frank Niedbala was at the Grala home with some other friends … teenagers from the village all hung out together. “He and Bernice did like each other,” admitted Frank, “but never really dated.” They were also considered to be too young to marry without parental approval. As Frank left that night, Maryanna stopped him at the door and suggested he come up with $1,000.00 for Bernice's hand in marriage … basically a dowry. He was from a rather well-off family and got the money from his parents. Bernice became engaged to Frank (and remained in Baba after the family set sail). They married in 1935 (and settled into the Baba homestead where their daughter Eugenia was born in 1936).

Frank was drafted into the Polish army in the fall of 1938. (Worried for his family’s safety, a letter was written to Bronislaw asking if they could join him in America. He refused the request saying Bernice already had her chance to come back. As the story goes, Maryanna persuaded him to change his mind ... possibly motivated by the officials at their Polish Club who spoke of onerous conditions on Europe's horizon and advised members to call their families home. Bernice and her daughter, Eugenia arrived in NY on January 15, 1939.)

His unit fought in eastern Poland, near Hrubieszow, very near the Polish/Russian Border. He was in the artillery and fought on the front line. In 1940 he returned to Baba and opened up a blacksmith shop where he worked for two years while trying to get immigration papers.

In 1942 the Germans moved in and took one blacksmith from every town. Frank was taken to Kalingrad where he worked as a blacksmith for the Germans until 1943 or 1944 when he developed arthritis and couldn’t do blacksmithing any longer. They then sent him to an area in Lithuania where he did some farm-related work, taking care of cattle.

The Russians took over Poland and Frank was forced to work for them at various jobs for another two years. During that time, he was assigned to digging 9 x 9-foot ditches for tanks. Trying to get an easier task, he professed to be a mason to get a job building cooking ovens for the Russian army. They liked him immediately because he made suggestions on how to improve the ovens by having one chimney for every four ovens. “Knowing Franek over the years,” commented Cookie, “he always had quite an inventive, engineering mind.” After the ovens got built, he was "promoted" to cook. He also entertained the troops by playing the accordion and was fluent in Polish, German and Russian.

At one point, between his time with the Germans and the Russians, he was put in jail in Bartoszyce because someone had stolen his identification papers. The only proof he had that he was Polish was a picture he kept in his hat (and still has in his wallet) of a young Bernice and himself in a Polish Army uniform.

In 1945 or 1946 Frank became very ill with pneumonia and the Russians released him. He went to stay with relatives in the village of Lyse until he got well. Once recovered, he returned to Baba to find a very poor village with no work. His search for work took him to the German-controlled town of Olsztyn where he repaired mill equipment at the lumber mill.

Frank finally got his immigration papers and, after a long 9-year separation, was reunited with Bernice and Eugenia on January 17, 1948.

Tatusiu Waltz (Daddy's Waltz)

2007-01-02T18:00:00.021-05:00

Nie smuc sie dzis tatusiu

Don’t be sad today daddy

nie smuc sie, dzis o mnie

don’t be sad over me

bo dzis jest me wesele

for today is my wedding

usmiechnij sie do mnie

Try to smile at me.

Benny & Pauline

June 18, 1935

Nie zapomne tatusiu

I’ll never forget you daddy
bo on tez kocha mnie
because you always loved me

mezawsze on robil dla mnie

you always worked for me

dal mi wszystko co mam
you gave me everything I have.

Helen & Stanley

September 1, 1937

Gdy bylam malem dzieckiem

When I was a little baby

tata mnie kolysal

you always rocked me

trzymal mnie na kolanach
you held me on your lap

do mnie sie usmeichal

and always smiled at me.

Tony & Pauline

February 23, 1946

Jestem ja wydorosla

I’m a big girl now

mam [] lat

and I’m [] years old

znalazlam kawalera
I found myself a boyfriend
ktory mnie tez kocha
who loves me too.

Stanley & Claudia

May 12, 1945

Dzis jest moje wesele

Today is my wedding

i ludzie patrza sieand

and all the people are looking

tatus zemna tanseuje

daddy you’re dancing with me

nigdy nie zapomne cieand

and I’ll never forget you.

Joan & Erwin

June 15, 1956

Grand Central Gathering

2007-01-02T17:09:00.006-05:00

"I have ever had pleasure in obtaining any little anecdotes of my ancestors." --Benjamin Franklin

GRAND CENTRAL RESTAURANT

3rd Row: Elaine, Carol, Pauline (Gadomski), Stanley (Rozycki),
Thadeus Boguslawski (Maryanna's brother), Frank (Niedbala), Tony,
Bronislaw Sr., Eugene, Bronislaw Jr., Stanley (Cisz) & Stanley
2nd Row: Pauline (Olszowy), Hedy, Lucy (Boguslawski), Bernice,
Stanley Jr., Maryanna, Mrs. & Helen Asvestas
(Kitty's mother & sister) & Kitty with daughter Kathy
1st Row: Dorothy, Claudia, unknown, Joan, Broni, Helen & Jean

Bronislaw J. Grala Jr. and Pauline M. Gadomski married in New Britain (D). Benny remarried to Lucille Rudnick. He died in Newington on July 21, 1975. Pauline died in Middletown on July 1, 1987.

CHILDREN
Dorothy Grala (living) [pictured above with Cookie]
Elaine "Cookie" Grala (living)
Bronislaw "Broni" E. Grala (living)
Elizabeth A. Grala (living)
David B. Grala born May 19, 1958 in Meriden; died August 12, 1981 in New Britain

Helen C. Grala and Stanley T. Cisz, son of Frank Cisz and Katherine, married on September 1, 1937 in New Britain. Helen died there on August 26, 1964. Stanley died there on January 29, 2001.

CHILDREN
Stanley T. Cisz Jr. (living)
Carol T. Cisz (living)

Bernice F. Grala and Frank Niedbala married in 1935 in Baba, Poland. Bernice died in New Britain on January 27, 1998.

CHILD
Eugenia "Jean" A. Niedbala born February 26, 1936 in Baba, Poland. She died in New Britain on October 22, 1995.

Anthony C. Grala and Pauline A. Olszowy married on February 23, 1946 in New Britain. Pauline died in Wethersfield on June 24, 1981. [Shown below with Judi.] Tony remarried to Virginia Gawek on February 13, 1983 in Wethersfield.

Hedy R. Grala and Stanley M. Rozycki, son of Chester Rozycki and Stella Karwacki, married on November 22, 1941 in New Britain. Hedy died in Naugatuck, CT on November 15, 1999. [That's Judi sitting on Hedy's lap.]

CHILD
Joseph "Joe" J. Rozycki (living)

Stanley E. Grala and Claudia F. Morin, daughter of Claude R. Morin and Bertha C. Marcinczyk, married on May 12, 1945 in New Britain. Stanley died in Port Charlotte, FL on November 1, 1991. Claudia remarried to Robert R. Clavet on December 7, 1992. [See also http://moringenealogy.blogspot.com.]

CHILDREN
Judith "Judi" A. Grala(living)
Diane L. Grala (living)
Stanley E. Grala Jr. (living)

Eugene S. Grala and Catherine "Kitty" G. Asvestas, daughter of Gregory Asvestas and Mary Kirigis, married on January 16, 1949 in New Britain. [Shown below with Hedy, Stanley & Claudia.] Kitty died in New Britain, CT on June 16, 2007.

CHILDREN
Kathleen "Kathee" A. Grala (living)

Cynthia J. Grala (living)

Eugene Stanley Grala Jr. (living)

Joan A. Grala and Erwin J. Cepek, Jr., son of Erwin John Cepek and Mary R. Horanzy, married on June 15, 1956 in New Britain (D). Erwin died on October 12, 2001 in Kittery, NY.

CHILDREN
Valarie "Val" M. Cepek (living)
Pamela "Pam" J. Cepek (living)
Lorraine H. Cepek (living)
Erwin "Eric" J. Cepek III (living)

Scrapbook

BRONISLAW, TONY, PAULINE, CAROL, HELEN, BERNICE & MARYANNA

GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN!

JEAN, TONY, MARYANNA & JOANIE

LEFT: JOANNIE, SMUDGIE & LUCKIE

RIGHT: UNKNOWN GIRL WITH JEAN

TADEK, BRONISLAW, BERNICE, FRANK, PAULINE, HELEN & STANLEY

RIGHT: CLAUDIA, STANLEY, STANLEY & HELEN
LEFT: COOKIE, STAN JR., CAROL, JEAN & DOROTHY

CAROL, HEDY, STAN JR. & MARYANNA

LEFT: THE TWO PAULINES
RIGHT: HEDY, CLAUDIA, STANLEY, HELEN & PAULINE

LEFT: CAROL, HELEN (HOLDING DIANE), PAULINE, HEDY, JUDI & JOEY
RIGHT: GENE, JOAN, MARIANNA, BRONISLAW, STANLEY & HEDY

PAULINE & HELEN

BRONISLAW JR. & SR.

THE CISZ FAMILY

LEFT: KITTY

RIGHT: BRONISLAW & STANLEY AT STANLEY'S 65TH

D=Divorced; (living)=Dates unpublished for security purposes. Unless otherwise indicated all events took place in Connecticut

Interlude

2007-01-02T17:00:00.010-05:00

"For years I never knew whether the twilight was the ending of the day or the beginning of the night ...

And then, suddenly one day, I understood that this did not matter at all. For time is but a circle, and so there can be no beginning and no ending ...

And this is how I came to know that birth and death are one. And it is neither the coming or the going that is of consequence ...

What is of consequence is the beauty that one gathers in this interlude called life." --Winston O. Abbott

Time to Polka!

2007-01-02T16:45:00.000-05:00

Uncle Stanley Rozycki

2007-01-02T16:00:00.007-05:00

It was with great sadness that we bid farewell to Uncle Stanley Rozycki, who died in Titusville, FL on April 14, 2008.

Uncle Stanley was born in Bridgeport, CT on November 22, 1920 to Chester P. Rozycki (aka Samuel Ruzzy) and Stanislawa "Stella" Karwacki and lived most of his life in Naugatuck. He married Hedy Rose Grala on November 22, 1941. Their son Joey was born in West Hartford, CT on July 6, 1951. [Pictured below is Hedy, Godchild Judi Grala, Stanley and Joey. Aunt Hedy passed away November 15, 1999.]

After graduating mechanical school in Wichita Falls, TX and Aircraft Instrument School at Chanute AFB in Illinois, he joined the Army Air Corp [which later became the Air Force] and served in the 15th Air Force European Theater, attaining the rank of Master Sergeant and crew chief on B24 Liberators [see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B-24_Liberator for more information about this bomber]. For his service he received many citations including a Bronze Star Medal.

After retiring from Uniroyal, Uncle Stanley owned and operated Walt's Liquor Store and was actively involved in his church and community: he was a member of the VFW, DAV, Catholic War Veterans and Polish Heritage Society; he was honored as Polish Mayor for the Day; he organized Cub Scout Pack 115; and was elected Bailiff under C. J. Waskowicz's term as Mayor. In addition to being a communicant of St. Hedwig Church, he was president of the Holy Name Society, past president of the Parish Council, past chairman of St. Hedwig Bingo, a former member of the Senior Choir and established St. Hedwig's "Theresa Soliwocki Award".

Cousins Reunion

2007-01-01T17:08:00.000-05:00

In the summer of 1990 us "kids" got together for our first Cousins Reunion. It was held at Joey's house in Naugatuck, where everyone was to BYOP*.

We had such a great party that we had a second reunion the following year where Ralf snapped this photo. It captures perfectly the spirited mood everyone was in that day! This time, I'll leave it to you to identify everyone.

Sadly, my father was hospitalized shortly after it was taken and passed away that November. But it made him happy to see us all together ... laughing and sharing old memories ... "like the old days."

*Bring Your Own Parents ... how else could we guarantee some of our delicious Polish favorites?

Grandchildren

2007-01-01T17:07:00.017-05:00

"Happy is the man who thinks of his ancestors with pride, who likes to tell of their deeds and greatness and rejoices to feel himself linked to the end of their goodly chain." --J.W. Goethe

Bronislaw (Broni) E. Grala married Katharine (Kay) B. Brown, daughter of Thomas W. Brown III and Margaret Leonard, in Ardmore, PA on April 1, 1978.

CHILDREN
Bronislaw Wistar (living)
Margaret Elaine (living)
Nicholas Karol (living)

Cynthia J. Grala married David N. Snow, son of David A. Snow and Norma R. Badminton, on September 11, 1971 in New Britain.

CHILDREN
Jessica M. (living)
Lorah C. (living)

David B. Grala was single when he passed away.

Diane L. Grala married John (Butch) J. Hook, Jr., son of John J. Hook and Elizabeth A. Dickinson, on August 23, 1973 in Newington. Butch died there on January 19, 1998.

CHILDREN
John J. Hook III (living)
Thomas E. (living)

Dorothy J. Grala married George E. Schramm on June 5, 1965 in New Britain.

Elaine "Cookie" Grala married Michael J. Lisitano, son of Sebastian Lisitano and Louise McGrath, May 10, 1974 in Keene, NH.

CHILDREN
Heather Lynn Lisitano (living)
Carrie Ann Lisitano (living)

Elizabeth A. Grala married Ronald D. Van in Wilkinsonville, MA. [Pictured below with her mother Lucy Rudnick.]

Eugene S. Grala Jr. married Bogumila (Bonnie) M. Kozikowski on July 16, 1983 in New Britain.

CHILDREN
James E. (living)
Bonnie M. (living)

Judith "Judi" A. Grala married Ralf Heit, son of Otto E. Heit and Elfriede Barkleit, on October 25, 1988 in Greymouth, New Zealand.

Kathleen "Kathee" A. Grala married Thomas Autunno on March 3, 1973 in New Britain [D]. Remarried to Jon Peters on December 31, 1990 in South Dakota. Thomas died in New Britain on December 23, 2001.

CHILDREN
Holly C. Autunno (living)
Anna C. Peters (living)

Stanley E. Grala, Jr. married Elizabeth "Ella" M. Orzel, daughter of Ignacy Orzel and Katarina, on August 10, 1985 in New Britain. [http://www.goodolesnare.blogspot.com/]

CHILDREN
Brett S. (living)
Stanley E. III (living)

Erwin "Eric" J. Cepek, Jr. married Janina "Nina" Mark, daughter of Joseph Mark and Katherine Dion, on October 18, 1997.

CHILDREN
Joshua J. (living)
Kathrianna (living)

Lorraine H. Cepek married Tomas E. Behr, son of Henry Behr and Margerite Thomas, on May 27, 1995 in Easthampton, MA.

CHILD
Trevor T. (living)

Pamela "Pam" J. Cepek married Steven "Jim" J. Churchill, Jr., son of Steven J. Churchill and Jean Viele, on November 10, 1984 in Newington.

CHILD
Marissa J. (living)

Valarie "Val" M. Cepek married John E. O'Sullivan, Jr., son of John E. O'Sullivan and Mary Doherty, on February 23, 1986 in Duxbury, MA.

CHILDREN
Jill A. (living)
John E. III (living)

Carol T. Cisz married Edward "Ed" McDonald on November 24, 1962 in New Britain.

CHILD
Jason B. (living)

Stanley T. Cisz Jr. married Marianna Hansen, daughter of Peter Hansen and Johanna, on January 6, 1967 in Berlin, Germany. (Pictured below in 2004.)

CHILDREN
Gregory M. (living)
Vanessa A. (living)

Jean A. Niedbala married Robert Molloy on October 23, 1952 in New Britain [D].

CHILDREN
Patricia (living)
Robert F. (living)
Teresa (living)
Edward F. (living)

Joseph "Joe" J. Rozycki is a bachelor.

D=Divorced; Birth dates & places of living individuals unpublished for security reasons.

Scrapbook

2007-01-01T17:00:00.004-05:00

IRENE, TONY & JOAN (2007)

VAL, PAM, AUNT JOAN, LORRAINE & ERIC

JOAN AND THE DUDETTES!

"Beside a well, one does not thirst ...
Beside a sister, one does not dispair!" --Nushu Proverb

DIANE, SKIP & JUDI

Great Grandchildren

2006-12-31T17:06:00.000-05:00

"WE'VE ONLY JUST BEGUN ... to live.
White lace and promises;
A kiss for luck
and we're on our way.
And yes, we've just begun."

Holly C. Autunno (daughter of Kathee Grala) married James Jansma in Vermillion, SD.

CHILD
Safya

Trevor T. Behr (son of Lorraine Cepek).

Joshua J. Cepek & Katrianna Cepek (children of Eric Cepek) shown with their parents.

Marissa J. Churchill (daughter of Pamela Cepek) -- With her mother's Easter Baranek (Lamb of God) in 2006!

Gregory M. Cisz (son of Stanley Cisz Jr.) married Amy P. Poole on July 25, 2005.

CHILD

Ella Patricia

GREGORY, AMY, GARY & VANESSA

Vanessa A. Cisz (daughter of Stanley Cisz Jr.) married Gary Cotton on October 1, 2005.

"Before the rising sun ... we fly.
So many roads to choose;
We start out walking and learn to run.
And yes, we've just begun."

Bronislaw Wistar, Margaret Elaine Grala & Nicholas Karol Grala (children of Broni Grala). That's Nic in 2007 making pierogis for Easter and on the rugby field.

Bonnie M. Grala (daughter of Eugene Grala Jr.).

James E. Grala with his father Eugene Jr. and grandfather Eugene Sr. Jim is with the Air National Guard and, as of August 2007, stationed in Kurkistan.

Stanley E. Grala III & Brett S. Grala (children of Stan Grala Jr.) Cruisin' with their parents in 2006.

John J. Hook (son of Diane Grala) and Margaret Jablonski, daughter of Chester Jablonski and Sophie, married on March 11, 2002 in Port Charlotte, FL.

Thomas E. Hook (son of Diane Grala) and Nicole Rybka, daughter of Eric Rybka and Mary Orzel, married in New Britain (D).

CHILD
Valarie A.

Carrie Ann Lisitano (daughter of Cookie Grala) married Ryan John Rose, son of John Rose and Jennifer Kenny, on August 23, 2003 in Middletown, CT. Baby due in January 2008!!

Heather Lisitano (daughter of Cookie Grala) is a bachelorette. Shown on Easter 2007 with her boyfriend John.

Jason B. McDonald (son of Carol Cisz) married Dena Mermelstein on May 14, 2005 in Queens, NY.

CHILD
Hugo Abraham

"Sharing horizons that are new to us,
Watching the signs along the way,
Talking it over just the two of us,
Working together day to day ...
Together."

Edward F. Molloy (son of Jean Niedbala)

Patricia Molloy (daughter of Jean Niedbala) married Daniel Marcus

Robert (Bobby) F. Molloy (son of Jean Niedbala) married Maureen Elizabeth Donelly

Teresa Molloy (daughter of Jean Niedbala) married Peter Rossi

CHILDREN
Jason M.
Justin R.
Shelby R.

John E. O'Sullivan III & Jill A. O'Sullivan (children of Val Cepek).

Anna C. Peters (daughter of Kathee Grala) -- Shelling with her mom in 2006.

Jessica M. Snow (daughter of Cynthia Grala) married Thomas P. Craig on May 22, 1999 in Plymouth, MA. Pictured with "Wrinkles."

CHILDREN
Twins Abigail Priscilla and Parker David

Lorah C. Snow (daughter of Cynthia Grala) -- Adds the crowning touch to her family's 2006 Christmas celebration!

"And when the evening comes ... we smile.
So much of life ahead;
We'll find a place where there's room to grow.
And yes, we've just begun." -- Paul Williams & Roger Nichols

Scrapbook

2006-12-31T17:00:00.001-05:00

JASON MCDONALD

BRONI, BRONISLAW & BABY BRONI

CARRIE & HEATHER LISITANO WITH DZIADZI ON FATHER'S DAY 1982

JOHNNIE'S GRADUATION 2006

MARISSA ... A ROOTIN' TOOTIN' COWGAL ... 2006

Great Great Grandchildren

2006-12-30T17:05:00.012-05:00

Ella Patricia Cisz
(Grandaughter of Stanley Cisz Jr.)

Abigail Priscilla & Parker David Craig
(Grandchildren of Cynthia Grala)

Visit our web page at http://jmcraig.dotphoto.com/CPListAlbums.asp!

OUR CHRISTENING, APRIL 2008

Valarie A. Hook
(Grandaughter of Diane Grala)

Safya Jansma
(Grandaughter of Kathee Grala)

Hugo Abraham McDonald
(Grandson of Carol Cisz)

Jordan Elizabeth Rose
(Grandaughter of Cookie Lisitano)

Jason M. Rossi
(Grandson of Jean Niedbala)
(Picture Please!)

Justin R. Rossi
(Grandson of Jean Niedbala)
(Picture Please!)

Shelby R. Rossi
(Grandaughter of Jean Niedbala)
(Picture Please!)

It's Grand to Be Grand!

2006-12-30T16:00:00.002-05:00

Love and best wishes to our newest family members!

Here's a chance for your grandparents to exercise

some bragging rights. There's only ONE rule:

One or both must appear in the picture with you ...

Cookie with Jordan Elizabeth Rose

Stan and Marianna with Ella Patricia Cisz

Cynthia with Parker David & Abigail Priscilla Craig

Carol and Ed with Jason, Dena & Hugo Abraham and
Greg, Amy & Ella Patricia Cisz

The Pet Parlour

2006-12-29T15:21:00.000-05:00

Look for Banjo Craig's picture on your grocery store shelves ... this cutie might be featured on a Jones Soda label!

Did someone say "bye-bye"? Because Shelbie Heit is always ready to ride. A very smart GSD/Lab mix, she'd leave without you if you'd just give her the keys!

If you're casting off for the local swimming hole, Roxie Heit will be the first one on board. And, oh ... don't forget the frisbee!!

From Our House To Yours

2006-12-25T12:00:00.000-05:00

"Every time a hand reaches out to help another... that is Christmas.
Every time someone puts anger aside and strives for understanding... that is Christmas.
Every time people forget their differences and realize their love for each other... that is Christmas."

May this Christmas
bring us closer to the spirit
of human understanding,
closer to the blessing
of peace.

Happy Easter!

2005-03-27T07:50:00.000-05:00

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE! Thinking back to wonderful family get-togethers: with Polish delicacies from Bobchi's kitchen (perhaps with the exception of those jellied pigs feet!), baskets filled with yummy treats, beautiful sugar Easter eggs from Uncle Tony, baby chicks and so much more!

HO! HO! HO!

2004-12-25T22:17:00.000-05:00