polish center of discovery and learning

What a treasure this small museum is! Good variety of material culture and knowledgeable docents. The building, a former rectory, is a piece of local history as well. More exhibits are coming in all the time and I learn something new every time I visit. Hours are limited, so you may want to call ahead.

For anyone with an interest in Eastern European or immigrant history, the Polish Center is a true gem. The building is inviting with three floors of packed displays of objects concerning both the everyday lives and special events of Polish immigrant to region. Rooms are divided by loosely by topic - military history, immigration, education and business development, home life and celebrations, etc. Each room has displays of objects, photos and explanations which are engaging and heart-warming.Perhaps most interesting especially to younger visitors is the replica of a Polish cottage found on the third floor of the building. The room is filled with objects imported from Poland and it is structured after the type of home one's great grandparents may have lived in.Additionally, the Center houses the genealogy room of the Polish Genealogical Society of Massachusetts as well as its own holdings of documents, books, and historical materials. One can call ahead and arrange a time for particular research.The Polish Center holds numerous events every year from lectures to craft and cooking classes. A quick look at their Facebook Page or website always shows something interesting coming up. As I said, the Center is truly a hidden gem of the region.