Museum of Kashubian-Pomeranian Literature and Music in Wejherowo
- Damian Brzeski
- Sep 30
- 9 min read
The only museum in Poland that collects not armor, but words and sounds. At the Przebendowski Palace in Wejherowo, "Memory – Heritage – Identity" transforms Kashubia into a living narrative—from the manuscript of "Remus" to concerts and multimedia. Where did this unique institution come from, and how is it changing the region's contemporary culture?
Imagine a place where the exhibit is… identity. The Kashubian-Pomeranian Literature and Music Museum in Wejherowo combines literature and sound, archives and stage, past and future. What testament sparked this project, and why is a palace with Pompeian polychromes at its heart?
He doesn't collect furniture or armor—he collects memory. From Franciszka Majkowska's gift to the Drzeżdżon Competition, the Wejherowo museum has become a guardian of Kashubian language and music. What makes it so attractive to researchers, creators, and… music lovers?
A few words about what a writing museum is
Imagine a place that defies the definition of a typical regional museum . Instead of focusing on armor or furniture, it focuses on the ephemeral—the spirit and intellect of the region.
This is precisely what the Museum of Kashubian-Pomeranian Literature in Wejherowo is like, an absolutely unique institution on the cultural map of Poland.
Its mission is precisely defined: where other institutions focus on material history, this unique center collects and preserves intangible heritage – the treasures of Kashubia and Pomerania preserved in the written word and music.
It is the only institution of its kind in the country that has approached literature with such passion, becoming a key guardian of the Kashubian identity.
But don't think it's just a dusty warehouse for memorabilia! The museum's collection , numbering over 100,000 items and accumulated over many years , is an invaluable asset for researchers.
More importantly, the facility is bustling with life. It's a true cultural and scientific center where artists and historians meet.
The center's activities are based on three powerful pillars, enshrined in the motto "Memory – Heritage – Identity." Through its collections and activities, the institution not only cultivates memory but also actively inspires new generations.
The history and mission of the museum
Every great institution begins with a dream. The history of the Wejherowo center is a fascinating tale of determination and the people who decided to save the cultural heritage of their region from oblivion.
It is a chronicle of the transformation of an idea into a real, vibrant place that is now more than just a history museum .
The establishment of the museum and the role of Franciszka Majkowska
Although dreams of a facility protecting the region's heritage had already been brewing in Wejherowo in the interwar period, difficult times did not allow them to be realized.
The real impetus for action came after the war, when in 1956 the Wejherowo branch of the Polish Composers' Union was established, gathering around itself a group of devoted regionalists.
The real breakthrough, which transformed vague plans into a concrete project, came with the death of Franciszka Majkowska , sister of the eminent writer Aleksander Majkowski. When she died on August 19, 1967, she left her priceless personal collection in her will.
This collection of Franciszka Majkowska – memorabilia from her brother, works of art and documents – became the spark that ignited the idea and provided a solid foundation for the future museum .
The gift of Franciszka Majkowska , a valued artist, gave the idea a real shape and became a powerful argument in talks with the authorities.
Suffice it to say that only a month after her death, in September 1967, the local branch of the Polish Composers' Union obtained approval for the first two rooms for the newly established facility.
The contribution of the Kashubian-Pomeranian Association to the establishment of the institution
The Kashubian Association was the true driving force behind the entire endeavor. Already in the early 1960s, its members, such as Adam Patok and Edmund Kamiński , organized the first branch of the Kashubian Association exhibitions , showcasing private writing collections to demonstrate the wealth of material waiting to be gathered.
The exhibition "Kashubian Press" from 1964 clearly showed the potential of the idea of creating a Kashubian museum .
After receiving the gift, the Kashubian Museum branch acted with incredible determination. A Social Organizing Committee for the Kashubian Museum was established.
It was headed by the indefatigable Edmund Kamiński and included key Kashubian activists : Mieczysław Baran , Irena Kamecka , Jerzy Kiedrowski , Miron Łukowicz and composer Jan Trepczyk .
It was this museum organizing committee that took upon itself the task of developing the museum project . Edmund Kamiński's talent and commitment proved crucial. The culmination of these efforts, in which Edmund Kamiński played a significant role, was the resolution of July 31, 1968.
The efforts of Edmund Kamiński and the committee resulted in the museum opening on September 1, 1968. This was a success that ushered in a new era in the organization of the Kashubian museum .
Paweł Labuda as the first director of the museum
Paweł Labuda was appointed the first director of the new institution. He faced the extremely difficult task of transforming a grassroots initiative into a professional institution.
His work in the first years laid the true foundations: intensive collection , cataloguing and scientific processing.
Under Paweł Labuda's leadership, the center developed rapidly. In 1968, its profile was expanded to include musical heritage.
The experienced Paweł Labuda also managed key moves for the institution's development – first to a larger premises, and in 1972 to a beautiful villa.
As part of its operations, the museum also acquired an additional building. These were years without which further development would not have been possible.
Michał Hinc – current director and development directions
The institution's recent history has been a period of dynamic development. It's worth appreciating the tenure of Tomasz Fopke (ca. 2013-2023), who significantly contributed to building its brand.
On April 1, 2023, Dr. Michał Hinc took over the reins.
His term of office coincided with the institution's 55th anniversary celebrations. According to the latest information, Aleksandra Sielicka currently serves as director.
Each subsequent director of the Wejherowo museum faces new challenges, but also initiates ambitious projects, such as the "Kashubian Granary of Memory" .
All these activities, after many years of the museum's activity, perfectly fit into its unchanging mission, which is summarized in the anniversary slogan: "Memory – Heritage – Identity" .
Museum location: Przebendowski and Keyserling Palace
The Literature Museum's headquarters is not just an address, but one of its most important exhibits – a monument whose walls bear witness to the vibrant history of Pomerania. It is here, in this historic residence, that the region's heritage finds its home.
Architecture and history of the palace
The headquarters of the Literature Museum is no ordinary building. The Przebendowski and Keyserling Palace is a monument that speaks to a multicultural heritage.
Construction was started in 1767 by Ignacy Franciszek Przebendowski, and its final, neo-Gothic shape was given to it around 1875 by Count Otto Archibald von Keyserlingk.
The palace's architecture is truly unique – its form is reminiscent of southern Italian villas. Its greatest highlight, however, are the unique polychromes in the Pompeian style .
After World War II, the palace's fate followed a typical course. Its transfer to the institution in 1995 was therefore a symbolic act .
The impressive Przebendowski Palace ceased to be merely a backdrop and became one of the most important exhibits. The museum remains within its interior to this day, housing priceless regional collections .
Museum surroundings: Majkowski City Park
The Przebendowski Palace is the heart of the historic palace and park complex, today known as the Aleksander Majkowski City Park .
The park is a picturesque extension of the exhibition space. Thanks to its revitalization, it has become a favorite recreation spot for residents and tourists, hosting numerous cultural events . It's the perfect complement to a visit to the museum's main building .
Literary and writing collections
The institution's collection is a true treasure trove, documenting the richness of the written word in Pomerania. These collections of writings form the foundation of its activities, serving as an invaluable source of knowledge for researchers.
Kashubian literature as the foundation of the collection
The heart and soul of the collection is Kashubian literature. It encompasses a wide range of writing , from its very beginnings to the present day.
It includes priceless first editions, subsequent editions, as well as Kashubian publications and translations of religious texts that played a key role in the survival of the language.
Department of Manuscripts and Old Prints – the most valuable documents
This is where true treasures are kept. The Department of Manuscripts and Antique Prints collects the most valuable documents.
The collection includes autographs and manuscripts by key authors. The collection's old prints and rich collection of Kashubian literature are an invaluable source of knowledge.
Literature and Press Department – books, magazines and regional press
This section is a veritable treasure trove of knowledge. The museum collects literature not only in Kashubian and Polish, but also in German. The Collection of Kashubian periodicals is particularly valuable.
These Kashubian regional periodicals are an indispensable source for research on the social life of Pomerania. Many exhibitions of the Kashubian press are also organized here.
Department of Art and Writers' Memorabilia – the legacy of Kashubian authors
Want a more personal look at the creators? This section will allow you to do just that. Over the years, the museum has acquired the legacies of many writers and activists—not only manuscripts but also personal documents and photographs.
Although this is not its main profile, the collection also includes a few ethnographic items that came here as part of the legacy.
An exhibition dedicated to Aleksander Majkowski
The permanent exhibition devoted to Aleksander Majkowski is a must-see. It showcases him not only as a writer but also as a visionary and pioneer of museology .
The focal point of the exhibition is a relic of his work: the original manuscript of the novel "The Sorrows of Remus." The museum possesses a copy of the manuscript for research purposes, testifying to its scholarly importance.
The musical heritage of Kashubia
Music is another, equally important, pillar of the region's identity. The museum's collections in this area include not only sheet music and instruments, but also sonic testimonies of bygone years, recorded voices of composers, and melodies.
Music Department – documentation and research of regional music
The Music Department plays a key role in the institution's mission. Its collections include composers' manuscripts, sheet music, and a rich audiovisual archive, including valuable recordings of radio broadcasts .
This activity documents both the tradition and contemporary music of the region , perpetuating the legacy of artists such as composer Zygfryd Strzebrakowski .
Education, multimedia and cultural activities
The institution is not only a guardian of the past but also an active participant in the present. Through its wide-ranging activities, the center is vibrant, inspiring, and educating, becoming a significant cultural center in Pomerania.
Educational and Audiovisual Department – education and multimedia presentations
This is the true heart of our educational mission. The Educational and Audiovisual Department develops and conducts a wide range of lessons, workshops, and activities for children and young people, creating modern, multimedia presentations.
Concerts at the museum – promotion of Kashubian and classical music
Przebendowski Palace is not only a quiet space, but also a vibrant concert hall . Thanks to its excellent acoustics, concerts are regularly held here, attracting music lovers from across the region.
National Prose Competition named after J. Drzeżdżon
For years, the institution has organized one of the most important literary events – the Jan Drzeżdżon National Prose Competition . The competition plays an invaluable role in promoting contemporary creativity.
The museum conducts publishing activities , publishing, among others, works by the laureates.
Temporary exhibitions – themes and significance for the region
Temporary exhibitions are one of the pillars of the program, allowing for a dynamic presentation of the collection.
Exhibitions of Kashubian literature are regularly organised here, which are very popular and allow us to rediscover the monuments of Kashubian culture .
The importance of the museum for Kashubian culture
The Museum of Literature's work extends far beyond simply collecting exhibits. It is a missionary institution that has for decades played a key role in the preservation and development of a unique cultural identity.
The role of the museum in preserving the Kashubian language and identity
In summary, it's safe to say that this is the world's most important institution dedicated to preserving Kashubian heritage . Throughout its existence, the museum has served as an anchor of identity.
By preserving the material evidence of the language's existence and supporting its vitality, it is not only a guardian of memory but also an incubator of the future. The museum's continued collections are crucial here, ensuring the preservation of its heritage for future generations.
Practical information
Planning a visit? Great idea! Below you'll find key information to help you organize your stay. Just remember to check the official website for the latest information.
Location and access to the museum in Wejherowo
Headquarters address (Palace): 2a Zamkowa Street, 84-200 Wejherowo
Contact:
Telephone: +48 58 672 29 56, +48 58 736 18 21
E-mail: sekretariat@muzeum.wejherowo.pl
Website: www.muzeum.wejherowo.pl
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