Polish American String Band at the Pulaski Day Parade, Sunday, Oct. 1, 2006
photograph by: Peter J. Obst

The Polish American String Band

History of the Polish American String Band

Since its founding in 1933 the Polish American String Band has been thrilling audiences of all ages in the fine tradition of Philadelphia Mummery with its great music, beautiful costumes and outstanding, award winning presentations.

The Polish American String Band, through innovative leadership and the members' individual efforts, has amassed an unequaled Mummers Parade performance record. Polish American String Band has been a consistent prize winner, placing within the top ten 57 times and ranking out of the top ten only twice. Polish American String Band has been awarded first prize more times within the past fifty years (11) than any of the more than twenty-three string bands that compete in the New Year's Day Mummers Parade.

Performances throughout the United States and even as faraway as a 1959 appearance in Havana, Cuba, have been special highlights in the band's history. In 1979 Polish American String Band played in Philadelphia for Pope John Paul II, they also were featured on the nationally televised "Tomorrow" show.

One of the most interesting and historical events Polish American String Band has experienced, happened on July 23, 1990. The band went to Poland on a two week concert tour. They performed in Warsaw, Gdynia, Gdansk, Torun, Krakow and Czestochowa.

The more than ninety members, who volunteer their time and talents, live and work throughout the Delaware Valley area and vary in ages, background and occupations.

From bankers and accountants to construction workers and college students, all members share a love for music and entertainment that keeps them united as a respected String Band organization. Active year-round in parades, concerts and holiday celebrations, Polish American String Band continues to play an integral part in the tradition of Philadelphia Mummery.

Congratulations Polish American String Band 2nd Prize Winners in the 1998 Mummers' Day Parade

Congratulations are extended to Captain John Zachwieja and the entire membership of the Polish American String Band for their outstanding performance in the 1998 Mummers Day Parade as they received 2nd Prize for their presentation of Stars, Stripes and Strings. Since they were founded in 1933, the Polish American String Band won First Prize 11 times in the annual Mummers' Day Parade String Band category.

The Polish American String Band is headquartered at the Polish Eagles Sports Club on Thompson Street in Port Richmond, where the band gathers each Monday evening for rehearsal. The entire Polonia are proud of their accomplishments and their tradition of upholding old world culture and the heritage of Poland.

Once again, the Polish American Congress, Eastern Pennsylvania District and the entire Polonia extends Congratulations to the Polish American String Band and wishes them much success in their future endeavors. Sto Lat!

From: Polish American News, February 1998

Polish American Stringband Flyer