About Us - Polish Falcons Aid Society - Grand Rapids - Michigan
The Polish Falcons Aid Society was founded on June 9, 1927 by a handful of people during a very hard economic time, as it was during the Depression. These people undertook the task of forming the Society so those who valued the need in joining with their own to promote Polish culture, good fellowship and to support those in need.
The first meetings of the Society were held in the Warsaw Hotel at 500 Bridge St. N.W. The meetings were called to order by Frank Czubaj who was the organizer and first president of the Society. In September of 1932 the meetings were moved to the Knights of St. Casmir’s Aid Society as the membership had grown and it was impossible to hold the meetings at the Warsaw Hotel.
In 1935, the Society corporated and officially became the Polish Falcons Aid Society of Grand Rapids. The first Constitution was formed and completed on March 1, 1936.
As the membership continued to increase the Society decided to look for a larger building. On June 16, 1936 the Society opened their club at the corner of Lane and Watson. With much sacrifice and hard work of the Society’s Administration and membership the Society was able to buy their own building. On April 20, 1937 the Society bought a building from the Society of Industry for $7000.00 at the corner of W. Fulton and Lane. The Polish Falcons Aid Society of Grand Rapids remains in this building today at 957 W. Fulton.
The Society made many improvements over the years to the building that includes a clubroom, bar, dance area, kitchen and an upstairs banquet hall. Along with building improvements the Society became active in many other areas. These areas included: Forming an auxiliary that was known as Ladies Auxiliary to the Polish Falcons Aid Society because of the valued hard work and help that it received from the women. The Sportsman Club was formed to draw the interest of young men so that the Society could continue. This club with the help of Msgr. Joseph Karas of Sacred Heart Parish was offered school space for their meetings. Baseball, softball and bowling leagues were formed.
The Society not only benefited their own members but also families, Polish activities and Sacred Heart Parish.
The Society gave back to those around the world. In 1939 when German lords attacked Poland murdering and destroying everything a Special Fund was formed to help in the defense of Poland. In 1941 when the United States declared war on Japan young American Poles immediately volunteered to defend their country. 26 members of the Society fought for our freedom. During the war the Society purchased War Bonds and sent packages to servicemen.
In 1945 the Society boasted the highest recorded membership of 415.
Today the Society continues supporting the Polish culture and community. They are involved with assisting families in need whether they are Polish decent or other nationality. Yearly involvement with the Polish Heritage Society, Polish Harvest Festival and Pulaski Days Celebration (a celebration to honor General Casmir Pulaski) continues. The Society continues to have involvement with many activities of the Catholic parishes and schools and in particular a very strong commitment to Sacred Heart Parish.
The Falcons and its members continue to participate in many activities and leagues such as softball, golf, darts and bowling (the same one formed in 1946). The Society host several dances and yearly events open to the public and has a picnic, dinners and Christmas parties for the members.
There are currently 300 members of the Society. Young and old members are still needed to carry on the Polish pride and spirit whether family passed it on or someone supports the Polish culture.
President's Message:
A new year begins. As we begin our new year, Polish Falcons members can be thankful for all the good that has happened in our lives. We should be appreciative of all those who have stepped forward and made our club an inviting and happening place.
It's also time to bring some changes into our lives which should be better. Changes give us time for reflection and thoughts. Changes make us re-evaluate our directions. At the beginning of the New Year we can set our goals that we would like to reach during the upcoming year. At this time of the year also brings new hope for each and every one of us. A new spirit, a new attitude and a new energy coupled with commitment.
Let's all celebrate the continuous changes we will try to make, and smiles and success throughout the year. Let's commit to our brotherhood and offer support as true fraternalists with a positive attitude each and every day.
As your review this newsletter, please note all of our member activities. Please support and participate wholeheartedly!
Best Wishes in 2009
Robert L. Czarnecki
