A typical Commonwealth of Virginia historical marker

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American Council for Polish Culture 64th Annual Convention July 18 - 22, 2012 Jamestown-Williamsburg, Virginia More details will be posted as soon as they become available

It was decided to combine the Dedication of the Historical Marker for the Jamestown Poles 1608 with the annual American Council for Polish Culture Annual Convention (64th)

The marker has been approved thanks to the efforts of Tom Payne and the Polish American Arts Association of Washington, DC -- ACPC Affiliate. Congratulations!

The marker text is as follows:

W-100 First Poles Arrive
Skilled craftsmen of Polish origin recruited by the Virginia Company began arriving in Jamestown aboard the Mary and Margaret about 1 Oct. 1608. Poles contributed to the development of a glass factory and the production of potash, naval stores, and wood products. Soon samples of their work were shipped back to England. The workers were so highly prized that they were assigned apprentices so that their skill "shall not dye with them." Capt. John Smith praised their work ethic in his writings. Court records indicate that as a result of a dispute, Poles were granted full voting rights on 21 July 1619.