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1917–1929 Polish Chicago Church Alumni Record Book – St. Mary of the Angels Parish – Handwritten Minutes, Names & Addresses
Original early 20th-century handwritten record book documenting the activities of a Polish-American Catholic alumni association in Chicago, most likely connected to St. Mary of the Angels Parish in the Bucktown/Wicker Park area.
This book contains continuous entries spanning approximately 1917 through the late 1920s, with references to meetings as early as 1916. All entries are handwritten in Polish, with one later English-language letter included.
Contents include:
- Detailed meeting minutes (prayers, motions, approvals, committee actions)
- Full names of members throughout
- Multiple pages listing members with Chicago street addresses
- Leadership roster (including president, secretary, and committee roles)
- Financial documentation (including a 1919 receipt)
- Personal correspondence (1929 letter referencing the organization and meeting minutes)
- References to Polish cultural events (including May 3rd celebrations)
The records appear to relate to the alumni of a parish school (“Szkoły Matki Boskiej Anielskiej” – School of Our Lady of the Angels), strongly associated with the historic Polish Catholic community of Chicago.
Historical significance:
This is a rare surviving example of a Polish immigrant community organization record book, offering insight into early 20th-century parish life, social structure, and membership in one of Chicago’s largest Polish neighborhoods. The inclusion of names and addresses makes it especially valuable for collectors and genealogical research.
Condition:
- Original antique condition with visible age wear
- Toning, staining, and some ink marks consistent with age and use
- Pages intact with strong legibility throughout
- No major missing sections observed
- Please review photos carefully for condition details
Notes:
Sold as a complete historical archive lot. All contents (including loose documents/letters) are included together as found.
A unique and authentic piece of Chicago Polish-American history.
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