The Józef Piłsudski Monument, which you can see today, is not just an impressive work of art but also an extraordinary witness to the turbulent events of the 20th century. Created by the Polish sculptor Stanisław Ostrowski, its first public presentation took place at the New York World's Fair in 1939, one of the most prestigious international events of that time.
The World's Fair, held at Flushing Meadows in New York, was a showcase of the latest technological and cultural achievements, offering each country the opportunity to display its best attributes. Poland, proudly represented at this exhibition, created a pavilion that combined modernity with the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The pavilion's design was entrusted to renowned architects Jan Cybulski and Jan Galinowski, who blended modern architecture with traditional elements, attracting visitors' attention and emphasizing Poland's significance on the international stage. The pavilion was a harmonious whole where modernity met history, and technology coexisted with works of art.
The centerpiece of the Polish pavilion was the King Władysław Jagiełło Monument, which welcomed guests and symbolized Poland’s great past. Beside it were valuable exhibits such as the PM 35 locomotive—a symbol of Polish industry—paintings, memorabilia from Wawel Castle, and unique artistic handicrafts.
The pavilion’s interiors were filled with artworks, modern inventions, and presentations of Poland’s scientific and technological achievements. The exhibitions portrayed Poland as a dynamically developing country, ready to face the challenges of the future. Additionally, the famous Polish tenor Jan Kiepura captivated the audience with a recital during the pavilion’s opening, and the artistic program included works such as Karol Szymanowski’s Harnasie and Stanisław Moniuszko’s Fairy Tale, showcasing the beauty of Polish music.
Unfortunately, the outbreak of World War II brought many changes. Poland was attacked, and many exhibits could not return to the country, including the Józef Piłsudski Monument. In the face of war, the return of these valuable artifacts became impossible. The monument was entrusted to the Józef Piłsudski Institute of America, where it found its home and became a symbol of Polish history and culture across the ocean.
The interior of the Polish Pavilion at the World's Fair with the Józef Piłsudski monument sculpted by Stanisław Ostrowski, New York 1939
Stanisław Kazimierz Wacław Ostrowski – The Monuments Creator
Stanisław Kazimierz Wacław Ostrowski, born in 1879 in Warsaw, began his studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Kraków and further developed his artistic skills in Lviv, Florence, and Rome. He also lived and worked in Paris, where he founded the Society of Polish Artists. His work was inspired by the ideas of the Young Poland movement and the works of Auguste Rodin, characterized by soft contours and rich texture, creating an impressionistic effect. Ostrowski was a master of modeling and attention to detail, and his works primarily included portraits and busts.
Among the artist’s most important works is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from 1925, a monumental piece located under the arcades of the Saxon Palace in Warsaw. Another significant achievement is the Monument of Władysław Jagiełło from 1939, which is located in Central Park, New York, and is an important element of Polish artistic heritage in the USA. In the 1930s, the artist also designed a coin featuring the likeness of Józef Piłsudski, highlighting his skills in creating numismatic works and his contribution to commemorating significant historical figures.
The Figure of Józef Piłsudski
Józef Piłsudski (1867–1935) is one of the most prominent figures in Polish history. As an independence activist, leader of the Polish Legions during World War I, and later the Chief of State, he played a key role in the reestablishment of an independent Poland. His actions included, among others, defending against the Bolshevik onslaught in the Battle of Warsaw and carrying out political and military reforms. After the May Coup in 1926, Piłsudski declined to run for president but remained the General Inspector of the Armed Forces until his death in 1935. His influence on Polish politics and history remains indelible.
The Józef Piłsudski Institute
The Józef Piłsudski Monument is owned by the Józef Piłsudski Institute, which was founded in 1943 in America. Due to its size, the monument was deposited at the Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union branch on Greenpoint Ave in Brooklyn, where it was provided with proper storage conditions. The Institute plays an important role in collecting, preserving, and conserving documents and historical materials related to Poland and the Polish diaspora. It organizes lectures, presentations, and exhibitions, and its extensive collections are available to researchers and those interested.
Address of the Institute: 138 Greenpoint Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11222
www.pilsudski.org
