your comments
Wil, Wrexham.
For Elizabeth Wasiutynski, Oakland, U.S.A. Google "Wrexham cemetery", you'll find a free search facility for the cemetery in which there is a dedicated section for Polish burials. However, at one time, while the Polish hospital in Penley was at its most used, Penley was a detatched part of Flintshire. Now its in Wrexham County Borough. Wrexham and Shropshire Railway run trains several times a day between Wrexham and Marylebone station, London, and there's a coach service from Victoria. Several very reasonable B&Bs within short walking distance of Wrexham cemetery. If burial took place in Penley you could enquire of Wrexham County Borough Council first and they may redirect you to the relevant department of Flintshire C.C. if necessary.
Tue Jun 16 08:15:54 2009
Zofia, Preston
Moved to Penley in the 60s. I now live in Preston.
Wed Jun 10 07:48:10 2009
Nicky, Penley
Hello Willow Manuel. I also completed a study on the Penley hospital while at Bangor Uni. The book you are after is available at Wrexham Library in the local history department. Strangely enough I have just moved into one of the new houses on the old site.
Wed Jun 10 07:43:54 2009
Nick, Webteam
Hi Elizabeth. We always reckon Wrexham's Local Studies section to be a good starting point for local history research and queries. Also, North Wales BMD is a good way to search online for records of local births, marraiges and deaths.
Mon Jun 1 08:46:21 2009
Elizabeth Wasiutynski from Oakville, CT, USA
While in the UK next month, I would like to visit Penley. Whom should I contact to locate the cemetery where persons who died at the Polish hospital would have been buried in 1947 or 48? Is a one day train trip from London to Penley and back at all feasible or possible? If I should stay overnight have you any suggestions for a B&B or modest hotel? Thanks very much.
Mon Jun 1 08:43:42 2009
Danuta Ochocinski, Ohio
P. Langdown, Kent, England. I came to the US in 1951 with both parents and they lived here in Ohio until their death. I thought perhaps Henryk may have been related to my father's father and his new wife. I never met any grandparents. What the Russians did not take, the Germans did. I have not met a single first cousin, aunt or uncle. My grandfather's new wife did not want my father around. They had their own children. No room for him. That is all I know.
Thu Apr 23 10:14:27 2009
S Vote from Isle of Man
To Halina Burgess, do you know if your father lived opposite Broadway Cottage, where the Joyces lived, in Mold during the late 1940s and can you tell how he came to Wales and his history? I have been tracing family and think there may be a connection.
Tue Apr 14 10:54:31 2009
Lucyna Rzodkiewicz
I just found this website and it does bring back some happy memories. Hi Donna, if you have a chance to email me, please do. I saw your comment. I was born in Penley Hospital in July, 1948 and left for the U.S. on the Queen Mary in 1952.
Mon Mar 30 08:45:47 2009
P. Langdown, Kent, England
Danuta Ochocinski, Ohio. Thanks for your response. I don't know anything about Henryk's childhood. Did he go to America with you, or did he stay in England after the war? Looking forward to hearing from you.
Thu Mar 5 08:06:40 2009
Jan Juliusz Kluk
Hi. I'm Jan J.Kluk, son of Szczesna and Juliusz Kluk. My father worked in Penley hospital. My brother Lech was born there. We then moved to Lilford camp in Northamptonshire. I moved to Poland in 1980 and settled here, in Warsaw.
Mon Feb 23 08:40:46 2009
Willow Manuel
Hello, I am a Bangor university history student and am conducting my dissertation research on the history of Poles into Noth Wales. I have found this site very useful for my research and have enjoyed reading through everyone's memories of Penley hospital. I would be very interested to hear from anyone who has memories of the hospital and also to hear from K.B. Jones as I would like to buy his book and ask a few question. I'd also like to speak to Mr and Mrs Pratt whose book I have also read (the website has my address). Any help would be much appreciated =)
Mon Feb 23 08:07:30 2009
Linda from Wrexham
To Andrew Jezierski. Your grandmother is buried in Wrexham cemetery. She died in 1952 age 63 and buried on 09/01/1952. She died at 3 Polish hospital. If you go to WCBC online cemetery and put in her surname you can see the entry for yourself along with the grave number.
Fri Feb 20 10:24:59 2009
Edyta Korzekwa, Poland
I am looking for the brother of my grandfather. He married a Scottish lady. His name was Franciszek Derbis. He died in Scotland a few years ago. Probably he was living in Edinburgh.
Tue Feb 17 09:31:50 2009
Priss Niedzwialowski (Paris, France)
To Sue Panton who wrote: Priss Niedzialoski, yes in researching, your information is correct...does that mean you may be related to the Matron? Sue, I think so, but I don't know. I am looking any information about my family from Poland and I found the name of this person. Maybe she was sibling with my grandmother or an aunt, or a cousin. If you could tell me more...thanks.
Mon Feb 9 09:56:32 2009
Yola Evans from Overton on Dee
I worked from the age of 18 at the Polish hospital in Penley (1986-1991). I nursed many patients and loved them all and have many fond memories. I learned to speak basic Polish which I still use today! My mother Pamela worked for many years in the "canteen" serving many of the locals with their native foods. She then went on to work in the hospital as a domestic cleaner when it closed. My uncle Geoff was a nurse at the hospital, I had an aunt who was a trained nurse and two aunts who were both domestics, Betty and Eleanor, oh and my big sister Karen was a RGN there also...quite a family affair. I later went on to nurse Dr Pushkiewicz who was a doctor at Penley and had fought at Monte Cassino. Such a gentleman and so many stories to tell.
Mon Feb 9 09:48:42 2009
Amanda Penley from America
I live in the USA, but I am trying to uncover the past of my last name, Penley. I have gathered that my last name is English, but interestingly enough, Penley, a hospital, pops up. If you have any futher information on the surname Penley please let me know via this site.
Tue Feb 3 10:28:25 2009
Danuta Ochocinski, Ohio
P Langdown. I don't know about Henryk. My father was raised by his aunt, his father remarried after his mother died and he and the new wife had their own children, she apparently did not want him around so his mother's sister took him in and he lived with their family until the war. Maybe Henryk was one of their children. Do you know anything about that?
Thu Jan 15 09:51:05 2009
Danuta Ochocinski, Ohio
Bozena Hitchmough-Mansfield - our families probably knew each other. I was born June 4, 1947 at the Third Polish Hospital. My mother was a nurse there as well. She has passed. Her name was Helena.
Thu Jan 15 09:46:39 2009
Andrew Jezierski, Argentina
My Grandmother, Paulina Ozarowska, spent some years in the 3 Polish Hospital at Penley with a heart ailment. My Father was a Flight Liutennant with the RAF 131st wing. Last letter, in my possesion, received from her being at the hospital, is dated April 1950. She died there late 1951 or early 1952. I recently found it out looking through old fammily papers. Wanting to learn more about my roots and pay homage to my Grandmother who helped us (my sister and myself) to live through the hard war years in Poland, I would very much appreciate if somebody could lead me to a person with access to the hospital records, to find out the exact date of her passing away and, if possible, the place she was buried.
Fri Dec 19 08:22:03 2008
John from Penycae
For Marie Matthews: the medal is from Monte Casino, a Second World War battle in Italy. It should have a number on the back, this will tell you what unit etc. your father belonged to. You can look it up on the internet [virtuti.com/order/articles/cassino.html]. My late father-in-law has the same medal.
Mon Dec 15 11:21:28 2008
Halina Burgess
To S. Vote, Isle of Man. My father was Wladyslaw Jurkojc who worked for Lord and Lady Raikes. I would love you to contact me.
Mon Dec 15 08:44:34 2008
Greg Kurcewicz, Derbyshire
Hi - my father Richard was born at the Penley camp in 1946 - His mother was a cook in the Polish Army - her name was Zelinsky - did anyone know them?
Thu Dec 11 08:36:10 2008
Marie Matthews (Wolski), Rhosllanerchrugog
Can anyone help me find any infomation on how my father came to end up here? He was in Penley for a bit, married Agnes Caulfield from Scotland and lived in Ruaban Polish camp till moving to Johnstown, 3 kids - Micheal, Robert Wolski and me, Marie Anne. My dad got the medal of Monte Cristo. Can't get anything about this from my Papa. Can anybody help?
Mon Nov 3 09:07:48 2008
Wojciech Pisarski
Hello to Janka Rogalska (Jane Leitch). Your note mentioned my family at Penley but not that we were next door neighbours at Wrexham and playmates. My sister Jadzia lives in York and is a supply teacher and Ania is married to a solicitor and lives in Bristol. I was a Psychiatric Special Worker and latterly Social Manager in Derbyshire, having moved to the East Midlands in 1981. I remember taking my mother to visit yours in Chester in about 1971 when she told us that Zimek wanted to become a film director because 'if Polanski could make it so could Rogalski'. Regards to him and your younger sister. I'm visiting my parents' grave in Wrexham on Sunday and was thinking of calling into Penley to visit.
Mon Nov 3 08:40:49 2008
P Langdown
Danuta Ochocinski, please get in touch, I think we might have relatives in common, through Henryk Ochocinski.
Tue Sep 16 08:34:40 2008
Gerhard and Kerion Meusel
My husband's father, Arthur Meusel, was in Penley Camp. He married a Penley girl, Bertha Owen, daughter of Fred and Sarah Owen. She had siblings Bessie, George, Rose, Gladys, Harold. Sarah's sister, Annie, emigrated to America with her husband to New Jersey, if anyone knows Annie's married name. Arthur was originally from Silesia, we would love to hear from anyone who knew him. My friend, Linda Cooke's father was also in Penley, Carl Ullrich, if anyone knows of him.
Wed Sep 10 08:45:48 2008
S.Vote, Isle of Man
I'm looking for information on Wladaslaw Jurjots, who was a market gardener in Mold, employed by Mr Raikes, in 1948. Can anyone help me?
Sat Aug 16 15:11:13 2008
Samantha Hughes
I'm looking for my grandad who I have never met before, my mum has never seen him either and he is the father of my mum, his name is Ronan Downzcheck. I believe that he is from America, California and he came over to Gresford in 1946 in the army. I would be grateful if anyone has heard of this name to get in contact me via this page. Thank you, Samantha.
Mon Aug 4 09:31:15 2008
Mark Bevan
We have now published "The Story of Delamere House & Delamere Park". Central to the book is Delamere Camp which developed on the park after the 2nd WW. The photographs of camp people and camp life are brilliant as are the accounts and anecdotes. Most of those troops who came to the camp, of course, were part of the Polish 2nd Corps heroes of Monte Cassino. Our website is: www.cc-publishing.co.uk, or look on EBay, under Cheshire.
Tue Jul 29 11:23:51 2008
Jane Leitch Haworth
To Wojciech Pisarski - just seen your message, unfortunately curtailed. Would love to know what's happened with you and your sibs. Could you e-mail (the web team has my address). Thanks. Jane Leitch (formerly Janka Rogalska).
Mon Jul 28 09:48:00 2008
Halina Malinowska, Selby, Yorkshire
My father (who sadly died in 2002) Ryszard Malinowski, came over to Wales in October 1946 with his friends (3 brothers named Gutowski - Antek, Wladek and Wojtek) from Civitanova, Italy, with General Anders around November 1946-7. They were stationed at Angle, Pembrokeshire (they called it Angel Camp). My mother (who sadly died in January 1989) came over from Italy with my brother, Wladyslaw, who died and is now buried in Angle aged 6 weeks on 5.12.1946. They then went to Penley where I was born at the Polish Hospital in January 1948. My parents then moved to Lancashire, where my sister was born and eventually Yorkshire where both my sister and brother were born at Castle Howard. I would love to know if anyone knew them, and also the whereabouts of the 3 brothers. My parents lost touch with them after I was born. Either Wladek or Wojtek Gutowski was my Godfather. I am going to Angle on 24th July 2008 to place a memorial stone for my brother and would like to visit Penley, where I was born. Could you please pass me a location from Caernarfon Castle to Penley Polish Hospital - if it's still there. Thank you. I am 60 years old and I cried when I saw this site and started reading the memories people had.
Mon Jul 21 12:28:51 2008
John Majka
I am tracing my family history. My dad, Janusz Majka was born in Penley in 1951 and his mother's name was Helena and father's name was Stanislaw. Dad died when I was a baby so would like to find out more if possible.
Wed Jul 9 15:26:36 2008
Henry Pavlovich from Hereford
My late father took lots of photos at Foxley camp and occasionally went to Penley. I've put up some of these photos on the website foxley.org. Another good site can be found if you google Northwick Camp - lots of photos. Henry
Wed Apr 30 09:30:02 2008
Wojciech Pisarski
I was born at Penley in November 1947, when my parents were living at Foxley Camp near Hereford, having come from Italy with the Polish Second (Anders) Corps shortly before and my father, Wladyslaw Pisarski, was a lieutenant with the Polish Resettlement Corps at the time. When I was 4 my family moved to Penley when my mother, Wanda nee Wyganowska, got a job as a Sister at the hospital - she had been a Sister at the same hospital when it was the 3rd Polish Hospital with the Polish Second Corps in Italy and in fact her photograph is in the 3 volume history of the battle of Monte Cassino by Melchior Wankowicz. We lived initially at the no. 11 camp outside Penley beside the Ellesmere side road in very primitive conditions and later moved to the no 3 Hospital at Penley Hall in the village itself where we lived in a 4 roomed little concrete hut, grouped in perhaps 10 in an "osiedle" - hamlet, of which there would have been about 3 or 4 on the hospital site. Initially, there was no water supply, kitchen or sanitation in each of the huts and we used a toilet block which offered bathrooms and large sinks for the women to hand wash clothes. Food was initially brought over from the staff canteen until a water supply was later arranged to enable each hut to have a kitchen. Heating was from a potbelly stove in the living room which glowed red as it got hot. In 1956 my father's older sister, Jadwiga, came over from Poland on a visit and was appalled to see the primitive conditions in which we were living and as a result we moved to a semi detached house in Linden Avenue in Wrexham. The best thing about living in Penley was being able to wander in the lovely peaceful countryside and woods of the "English Maelor" area in which Penley lay, picking primroses and violets for my mother and wild mushrooms for her to cook or preserve. The hospital itself lay in the grounds of Penley Hall, a country house with large stables and a large pond where my father resumed his pre-war hobby of angling. The hospital itself functioned as a small town and buzzed as a community, quite detached from the local English community which in the '50s and '60s it dwarfed. It had its own chapel, shop, cafe and cinema showing both English and Polish language films and the hospital itself had every conceivable department, including surgery. I well remember groups of war veterans from the many battles in which the Polish forces had participated, particularly Monte Cassino, in wheelchairs doing archery in the meadow beyond our group of huts as part of their rehabilitation and physiotherapy. The hospital itself was destined to become the only hospital remaining in Britain catering for the Polish ex-servicemen living in the country and I have been told that the British post-war government gave an undertaking that as long as Polish people lived in Britain Penley would remain open as hospital for their needs. It must have maintained its size by firstly absorbing the no 11 hospital when that closed and then no 4 hospital from Whitchurch, which was a specialist TB hospital. Eventually, over the years various special departments closed down until it became a geriatric hospital. I remember Wojtek Krajewski and his cousin Roman Renski who lived in huts near to mine and whose fathers were both doctors. I think that they moved to South Wales in the '50s. Dr Kielbinski also lived nearby and he later worked in Casualty in Wrexham War Memorial Hospital. His children were older than my family and his daughter later married a poet from Warsaw and they moved back to Communist era Poland. I particularly remember a neighbour's daughter who was my age with whom I was friendly at the age of 7 or 8 - Grazyna Gmytrasiewicz. I'm sure that I was quite heartbroken when her family emigrated to the USA and I've recently wondered what happened to her. Many names mentioned by other respondents are familiar to me, either because my parents mentioned their parents or because I remember them from Penley.
To Jane Leitch: you mention my older sister Jadwiga. I think that your family moved from Pen
Fri Apr 25 14:22:25 2008
Krystina Lotoczko, Mold
Does anyone know anything about my father, Aleksander Lotoczko, who I understand was at Penley briefly after the war?
Wed Apr 23 16:48:50 2008
Dawn Roberts, originally from Wrexham
Would anybody on this website possibly have any information about a family named Kolton who were originally from Poland and moved here to Wrexham in the 1970s. Their Christian names were Stanislaw (mother) & Gregory (son). I am the aunty of Greg's daughters. We are trying to do their family history and have no birth or death certificate for Gregory, so don't know where to start. If anybody from Wrexham or Penley has any information that might be helpful please get in touch via this website. Thanks.
Mon Apr 21 08:50:53 2008
Bozena Hitchmough, Mansfield
I have just found this site and I would like to share the news that I too was born in Penley on May 28 1947. My father was Stanislaw Rozmus and Mother Maria - sadly both are no longer with us.
Mon Apr 14 10:12:18 2008
Scott, Kent
My name is Basia Budzilko, my memories of Penley are happy. My Babcia was Maria Budzilko and Dziadzio was Stanislaw. I spent many holidays with my sisters Teresa and Anna in Penley and I still remember many people.
Tue Feb 26 09:22:01 2008
Paulina Preston nee Kozuch from Chorley
I have fond memories of visiting Penley where my aunt, Marisia Luczka, uncle Janek, Jadzia, Bogusia and Teresa lived. My aunt was a sister at the hospital and my uncle a porter. Sadly they have both died, but I still keep in touch with my cousins, who still live in the area.
Mon Feb 18 10:19:28 2008
John Fitzgerald, Penley
There is also an excellent book written by Shirley and Derrick Pratt called A Millennium History of Penley (published around the start of this millennium), ISBN 1-872424-82-1. It was a limited edition of 500 copies, so not sure if it is generally still available, but Wrexham Library may have it.
Fri Feb 1 16:29:16 2008
Laura
Penley has a lot more history than just the Polish hospital! What about when there was an American camp during the war for the American soldiers? If you want to learn all about the history there is actually a book written by a local man mostly about the war!
Tue Jan 22 15:17:40 2008
Gabriela Trzebinski from Texas, USA
A message Natasha and George Trzebinski, my Polish relatives say that we may all be related? I'm born in Africa 1962, English mother Errol & father was Zbigniew Trzebinski who passed away a few years ago, my grandmother Janina Trzebinska. Grandfather Waclaw. I have the family tree dating back to 1560.
Fri Nov 30 08:28:06 2007
Elzbieta Kniaz
I was born in Penley Hospital on 11 November 1947. My parents moved to SE London when I was just a small child, so I cannot remember Penley at all. My father Jozef Kniaz died in 1962 and my mother Krystyna Kniaz died in 1982. I would welcome hearing from anyone who might have met them and who remembers Penley.
Thu Nov 29 08:55:53 2007
Marcin Pietruszewski from Poland
I am looking for any info Wac³aw Jan PrzeŸdziecki. Maybe someone knows about him. He died in Penley in 1964. This is important for me. Maybe someone knows where I can find any information. Thank you.
Thu Nov 29 08:55:28 2007
Natalie, Wrexham
Hello my name is Natalie and I am a student at the Maelor School in Penley! I am doing course work on the old hospital and would be very grateful if anybody could tell me about what the hospital was like! Thank you!
Tue Nov 20 11:03:14 2007
Marian Antosiewicz, London
I have discovered by pure luck this page becouse it is only recently that I started using a computer. It is great, because my mother died there in 1952 and my father in 1973, both buried in Wrexham cemetery. I visited Penley Hospital several times and although these were sad occasions, now reading all these letters from people associated with these places is very interesting and fills me with nostalgia. I am nearly 80 years old now, but vividly remember these years described by those who were born there and now write from all continents. Well done. If anyone knows me, please get in touch.
Tue Oct 30 16:30:04 2007
Harvey Evans, County Durham
I was born in Penley in 1958 and lived there for 16 years before joining the Army. I have fond memories of the Polish hospital and went to school with many Polish people such as the Novak & Kupski brothers and Bodio Zawistowicz (probably misspelt). I still visit as I have family and freinds in the area but was sad to see the the many changes that have taken away the quiet sleepy village it once was. I have a copy of book named Penley which highlights the history of the village and the many photos including both hospitals and the Polish involvement in that. The co authors of the book were Mr Derek Pratt, a former Deputy Head Master at Penley Maelor School, and his wife Shirley Pratt (formerly Evans) whose parents were owners of the Dymock Arms in Penley. An excellent representation of the village life that Penley once had. May I say hello to all my old Polish friends wherever you are.
Thu Oct 18 14:26:03 2007
Sue Panton
Priss Niedzialoski, Yes in researching, your information is correct...does that mean you may be related to the Matron?
Mon Oct 15 09:08:43 2007
Jacky, Frances & Poalina
Does anyone know of a family who moved to Penley in the 1970's named Reynolds. The family moved from Weston Rhyn - there were two daughters Reisha and Margaret. The girls both went to St Martins modern school. Both girls were mad on horses. Reisha would now be about 54ish and Margaret would be 51. We have just had a reunion and 3 out of 4 friends met up - we just need to contact Margaret.
Mon Oct 1 08:17:56 2007
Beata
To Marta (Poland). This is a long shot but I did know a Captain Ziolkowski or possibly Ziolowski who lived in Penrhos. If this is of any use please contact me.
Tue Aug 28 11:06:48 2007
Krystyna Nowak, Calgary, Alberta
Zdzich Wieczerzynski. We were in Coventry in April, I thought you still lived in Birmingham. We go back to Coventry every 16 to 18 months as my husband's family lives in Coventry. His sister owns Alma Delicatessen on Corporation Street. Do you remember Gabriela Zaniewska - her dad, who played on the accordian and my dad played in the Penley band. Gabriela lives in Finley and we still keep in touch. Please let me know if you would like to meet on our next visit...
Tue Aug 21 10:13:55 2007
Zdzizlaw Wieczerzynski, Binley Woods
Krystina Novak and Irena Wieczerynska. Thank you for your reply. Kristina, I live in Binley Woods nr Coventry.
Mon Aug 20 13:02:07 2007
Irena Wieczerzynska, Birmingham
To Uncle Zdzislaw, Krystyna Nowak (nee Theuer) Calgary Canada and Alicja Theuer from Winnipeg Canada.Thank you so much for responding! I would love to know more, please contact me on this page, I would be so grateful, I know so little, and would love to be able to set it all out for my children and grand children... Irena:)
Fri Aug 17 14:08:18 2007
Mary (Czarnik) Egnor
My parents, Walter and Catherine Czarnik, lived in Italy before coming to the UK. I believe the year to be 1945-46. Did anyone know my parents during this time? We came over on the Queen Mary in 1953 and lived with my mother's sister, Anna, and her husband Joe Milcezk. I was born in the Penley Hospital May 9, 1947. Is there anyone I could contact for any information? My parents never spoke of their lives while living in England. Any bit of info. would be so appreciated, this site is just wonderful, thank you, Mary.
Fri Aug 17 11:12:51 2007
Krystyna Nowak from Calgary, AB
To Zdzich Wieczerzynski. What a great suprise. Please contact me. I would love to catch up and see if our memories are the same. My very best wishes to your mum and the rest of your family. My sister and I are going to be looking through some of our old photos from Penley and we're hoping to send them in.
Thu Aug 16 10:18:15 2007
Mary (Czarnik) Egnor, North Carolina
I was born in 1947 in Penley to Polish parents who were captured by the Germans and put in forced labour. After the war they were put in army barracks in Willorbuy Haul spelling? I know so little about their past, families and life in the UK before coming to America. My parents' names were Catherine and Walter Czarnik. I would appreciate hearing from anyone that might have known them.
Tue Aug 14 13:11:16 2007
Zdzislaw Wieczerzynski
Krystina Nowak, I have just read all your comments, my mum is slill alive but sadly my father died 30 years ago. I remember your wedding and my mum was sad that you were all going to Canada. I have a picture of you in Ellesmere.
Mon Aug 13 11:27:12 2007
Lech from Nottingham
Anything known about Juliusz Kluk who worked at the camp just after the war before moving to Lilford Technical School?
Fri Aug 10 17:15:34 2007
Gwenydd Mamos
My sister, Wieslawa, has been a long term patient at Penley hospital for some time now. Just to reassure you all, the newly built little hospital which replaced the old buildings, is just wonderful. Wiesa has received, and continues to receive, the most magnificent care, surrounded by reminders of her home country, her culture and her faith. The nursing care, the love and attention she receives, is absolutely first class.
Thu Aug 2 08:50:43 2007
Lukasz
I am looking for any info re. Wladyslaw Wernik. Maybe someone know about him. He probably lived in Penley Hospital and he hidden in Wrexham. This is importment for me. Maybe someone know where I can find any information. Thank you.
Thu Jul 12 10:04:38 2007
Priss Niedzwialowski, Paris (France)
I read somewhere that the Polish hospital transferred in Penley in 1946 was created in Buzulu, Russia, by Dr Wiewowski (or something like that) and a staff matron called Niedzwialowska. Can I considere that's true or not?Thanks all of you for helping.
Mon Jun 25 08:32:03 2007
Helena Romanowska, Bradford
Lovely to read all the stories and memories from a bygone era. I still try to get down to Penley when I have chance. Nice to see a message from Layla San Martin. My family were and still are friends with her Grandma and family, The Sadowskis. I remember Layla as a child who took to me as I was a teenager at the time and had a Yorkshire accent. I used to stay at her Grandma's house. There are a lot of names mentioned on here that I remember my parents talking about but nothing specific, unfortunately. We were friends with the Mazureks and Kupskis in particular. We always loved playing on Llanerch Panna as it seemed such an adventure playground. I also remember staying with the Kupskis when they lived on the old army camp (no 11?). The huts were basic but made very warm and homely and the washrooms were across the pathway. You couldn't meet kinder people than the folk who lived here.
Fri Jun 1 08:24:25 2007
Zosia Woolverotn (Hanus)
I came with my father from Kelvedon ostensibly for him to have a hernia operation as he couldn't speak English to his dying day. We went back after a few weeks - still with his hernia - but I had my tonsils removed as he chickened out even though he had just gone through Sibir and Monte Kasino. We eventually ended up in Huddersfield, Yorkshire. I now live in Gloucestershire. I have just found this wonderful site and I remember the "Beczki" from Kelvedon. I am amazed to find that, having lived in this county for over 20 years, apparently there were Polish camps in many towns I have been to without knowing it e.g. Northwick.
Fri Jun 1 08:23:29 2007
Krystyna Nowak (nee Theuer) Calgary Canada
I was in Penley this last April and felt a profound sadness at seeing its state. My sister Alicja was born in 1949 and I was born in Wrexham in 1952. We lived in Penley up until 1960. My father, Zbyszek used to play the drums in the Bella Donna band with Zamioski and Adam Zaniewski. My mother, Marysia was a nurse at the hospital. As with most of the people who lived in Penley, my parents passage to Penley was through Siberia and then through the Free Polish Army under Anders.
To Irena Wieczerzynska: We lived in the next barrack to the Wieczerzynski's and remember them well. Ola used to babysit us and was one of our favourite adults, beautiful soul and spirit and both Waldek and Zdzislaw were great playmates. They were at my wedding in 1971 in Coventry. Please contact me if you would like some more information, I believe we still have some old photos.
Thu May 31 08:33:24 2007
Alicja Theuer from Winnipeg Canada
I was one of the last children born in Penley in 1949 - delivered by Dr Leon Skrzeczkowski. We lived there until 1963.
Irena Wieczerzynska's (Birmingham) grandmother. Ola lived in the barrack next to us. She was the sweetest person I have ever known. She would let us pick as many raspberries as we wanted from her garden. To the best of my knowledge your grandfather worked on the ambulances in the Camp. The last time I saw Ola (also fondly known as Olenka) was at my wedding in Coventry in 1970.
Andrzej Bereza - where are you these days?
Does anyone remember: Danuta Bucior; Irena Pokrzewnicka; Lala Prach; 'Kicia' Nawrot; There are more names that do not come to mind immediately.
Does anyone remember the shows Pani Chwalibog used to put on with "us" as the stars?
Thu May 31 08:29:21 2007
Zosia King (Jasinska - Loboda) from Warwickwick
My mum's brother TADEUSZ LOBODA came here after fighting at Monte Casino during the war. He is buried at Wrexham. If anyone knows of the LOBODA name, please leave a message. Also, if anyone gets a chance, and hasn't already, visit kresy-siberia website.
Thu May 10 08:51:22 2007
Danuta Ochocinski, Ohio USA
To Keith Jones. I was born at Ulton Park Camp. I understand you have a book to sell. Would love to have it. Will try to e-mail you. What is the cost plus P+P in American currency?
Tue May 8 10:20:35 2007
Kate Brooke, from Co. Durham
My father, the Rev Merfyn Parry, was the Vicar of Penley in the late 1950's, and I was born at the vicarage. My older brother went to the primary school there, and at that time the push to learn Welsh was beginning to happen. However, in Penley, the two languages were Polish and English. All his school friends had Polish names, and he has fond memories of that time.
Mon Apr 30 07:55:10 2007
Mark Bevan (Chester)
We're putting together a history of Delamere Park (Cuddington, near Northwich) including a section on the old Delamere Camp. We're trying to trace photographs of the camp from the days of the Polish Community. Any help would be most appreciated. Thanks, Mark Bevan.
Mon Apr 16 09:28:36 2007
Keith B Jones from Denbigh
If Nicola, Bronington, would like to email her address details to me, I have a copy of 'Penley, A history of the Polish hospital in pictures'. I only have a few left of my own copies, but would be happy to let you have one for £8.50 plus p+p. It's good to see that my little book is still of interest. Kind regards, Keith Jones
Mon Apr 16 09:17:53 2007
Natasha Trzebinski from Canada, Ontario
hi i am 11 years old my grampa Marian Trzebinski was squadron leader major pilot, serving with the
polish airfoce, french airforce and royal airforce! he raised 2 sons George and Richard. marian grew up in kielce he was an amazing peorson and a wonderful grampa! he sadly died in 2002.
Mon Feb 12 11:17:48 2007
Jane Leitch from Haworth
Only just found this site. Moved to Penley in 1950 - my youngest sister was born there in Dec 1950. Interesting to read Layla San Martin - Joyce Sadowska's grand-daughter - John Sadowski (?her uncle) was one of our 'gang' in the Llanarch Panna camp. Our family name was Rogalski - my dad worked as MO in the TB ward, then went in anaesthetics and worked at Maelor Hospital in Wrexham. Would love to contact anyone who lived there as a kid in the 50s - Hedda (or Heather) Rimpel is especially remembered, along with John Sadowski, Zenon Zamoyski, Jadwiga Pisarska & her sibs.
Mon Feb 5 08:19:04 2007
José Quindós Martín-Granizo, Spain
I am searching for the life of a fabulous Polish writer called Segiusz Piasecki. I have read that he died of cancer in Penley, September 12, 1964. Could anyone please tell me how could I get information about this? Thanks a lot
Wed Jan 31 11:31:00 2007
Nicola, Bronington
Does anyone know where I can get hold of the book, Penley: A history of the Polish hospital in pictures, 1946- 1999 by Keith B Jones?
Thanks
Tue Jan 9 15:03:47 2007
Danuta Ochocinski
I was born in Penley in June 1947 to Polish parents. Mom was a nurse in I believe that hospital. We immigrated in 1951 to the United States. I will have to find my birth certificate, want to say Polish third army hospital? I will get back to you.
Fri Jan 5 09:55:02 2007
Agnes Blukacz de Strasbourg (France)
I was born in the Polish hospital in Penley on 21st January 1947. My father, Mieczeslaw Blukacz, who came from Czestochowa in Poland, was in General Anders' army after years of captivity in Alsace. My mother Jeanette Blukacz (nee Rohmer) was French. They were married a year later, then spent the end of the war in Italy, before coming to Penley in 1946. I spent my first year in the Polish camp Mona, Gwalmai, Holyhead. I would love to have any information, or photos, that show the Polish camp at this time. And, if anyone remembers my parents, any information would be gratefully received. Thanks in advance.
Mon Dec 18 11:26:54 2006
Bogusia Wojciechowska from Boston
I would like to respond to Sheila Bannister's note. Sheila, please leave a message for me.
I look forward to hearing from you,
Bogusia
Wed Dec 13 10:39:51 2006
Maggie (Malgorzata) Zalewski, Ridgefield, CT, USA
I was born in Penley in 1950 - my mother was a nurse there. I was also 2 weeks old when I was moved to Bradford, where we lived till emigration to the US in Nov 51. My husband Nick Kuzniarski (from Mansfield Notts) found this site and I'm so thrilled to read about all the other Penley babies from my generation. Bravo BBC - Thanks.
Message to Helena Romanowska from Bradford - maybe we knew each other as babies!
Tue Dec 5 09:14:24 2006
Iwonna Francis (Korzeniowska)
To Barbara Korzeniowska from London
Hi Barbara
I noticed we have the same surname. Wondered whether we were related at all. My father spent a lot of time in and out of Penley Hospital and I remember visiting him on several occasions. Most of my young life was spent at Delamere Park Camp only leaving when I was 14 years old.
Wed Nov 15 15:28:27 2006
Alusia Lewis (nee Kubala), Whitchurch, Shropshire
My grandmother Eugenia Kubala was a patient at Penley hospital for a couple of years, until her death in the early 90s following a stroke. There were many Polish people who settled in the surrounding areas who attended the hospital at some time or other. I grew up in the Polish community at Manor Place, near Whitchurch and often went with family members to visit somebody who was a patient at the hospital. On arrival at Penley during the war years, my mother Jadwiga Giedrojc worked at the hospital as an auxillary nurse, and my grandfather Bronislaw Giedrojc worked in the kitchens and as a porter. Along with the rest of the family they had accommodation at the hospital and I would often listen to them reminiscing about the time they spent there. Sadly they both died in the early 70s when I was still very young. There was a big close knit Polish community at Manor Place but only a few remain now, the rest having passed on. My childhood was very happy and I was brought up as a Polish child, however integration into the English way of life became more prevalent when I started school and started to speak English. I have very fond memories of growing up in 'Little Poland' and the togetherness of the Polish people.It was like having an extended family. I am immensely proud of my heritage and all the Polish people who went throught the horror and atrocities of the war, and who came to this country and were able to rebuild their lives.
Thu Oct 19 09:38:23 2006
Judith Hellyar (nee ANDREAS)
I am currently looking for any information about my father JAN ANDREAS, who spent 10 years at Penley hospital between the years of approx. 1953 to 1963, before passing away at the hospital. I was 2 years old when he became ill and he was sent to Penley Hospital to be among his own people. I would love to hear from anyone who may have nursed him or met him during his time there. Unfortunately I saw him only once during that time because my mother and I lived in Haverfordwest and we could not afford to travel that distance, I did however visit him when I was around 10 or 11 years old.
Mon Oct 16 09:48:41 2006
sheila Bannister from chesterfield
Hi Bogusia Wojciechowska. I have just read your email and I have a letter sent from Poland to my Father Wojciech Wojciechowski in 1964 if you are interested.
Thu Oct 12 08:18:47 2006
Antonio Jancewicz Fabriano (an) Italia
Sono nato in italia, figlio di un soldato polacco, dopo la guerra ho perso sue notizie, anni addietro ho saputo che è morto a wrexham, il 28 ottobre 1975, so che si era sposato con Genovefa Morchat, ma non sono riuscito a mettermi in contatto con nessuno, mi farebbe piacere sapere se da questo matrimonio sono nati dei figli, quindi se c'è qualcuno in grado di aiutarmi a sapere qualche cosa in riguardo, glie ne sarei veramente grato. (Translation: I was born in Italy, son of a Polish soldier. After the war I lost touch with him. Years later I found out he died in Wrexham on the 28 October 1975 and I know that he was married to Genovefa Morchat but I haven't been able to get in contact with anyone. I would really love to know if he had children from this marriage. So if there is someone able to help me find out something about this I would be really grateful to them. Antonio Janecewicz.)
Wed Oct 11 16:39:09 2006
Christian Jon Appleton Eistoyn
I just love Penley, I am doing a degree in history on Penley and I have learnt many facts about Penley, it was formed in 1872 and I have lived here since 1945, this is when the Polish were just moving out of the camp. I remember a man called Yestyn Abramicyh who was Polish and was freed through the agreement of the Soviet Union. My memory of him is that he told me how always to keep going as he had his leg amputated in the war, he said that from the amputation his life would end but said always to look on the bright side which kept him going which inspired me to become a historian and learn and do my 1st degree on Penley. From Cris.
Tue Oct 10 14:52:46 2006
Zofia Jarmulska from Poland, Warsaw
I am looking for any info re. Franciszek KARKOWSKI - the army chaplain of Polish Army, died in January 30, 1970 in Penley. Thanks
Wed Oct 4 10:28:13 2006
Joss Eugene from Wrexham
I have lived in Penley since I was 6, I am now 29 and there's been a lot of changes.
Mon Oct 2 10:56:31 2006
Nicola Stockton from Bronington
I am a student at Bangor university, in my final year of a BEd teaching degree. For my History assignment I have to complete a local study in an area of my choice. As I went to The Maelor School and have briefly studied the Polish Hospital, I thought it would be a great chance to study the area in great depth. This website has been a brilliant help. I would appreciate anyone who has any more photographs, written sources, memories etc, to get in touch. Thank you.
Thu Sep 28 08:03:42 2006
Irena Wieczerzynska ( Birmingham)
My father Waldek (Waldemar) Wieczerzynski was born at the camp after the war, my Babcia Olga was a nurse there and my Dziadek Schezcepan Wieczerzynski was - I think - a fireman there. My father has sadly died, but he did not like to talk about the camp at all when he was alive - does anyone remember my pretty Olga and hansome Schezcepan and cheeky-faced Waldek? I would be so thrilled to find out more...
Thu Sep 7 12:59:18 2006
Urszula Szulakowska from Leeds
My grandmother Anna Szulakowska (nee Baranowska) died in February 1950 in Penley Hospital. I visit her grave in Wrexham cemetery where she is laid with three others. I never knew her since I was born later that same year in Derby. To find this website is a great joy as it fills in the gaps in my historical knowledge of the Poles in the North and in my family history. It is good to hear stories of so much life and happiness in Penley since I have associated it with my grandmother's tragedy of deportation from Polesie, through Siberia, Khazakstan and Rhodesia, only to die of a brain tumour when she finally found safety with her family in England.
Wed Aug 9 07:46:43 2006
Irena Brzyska (nee Slama) in Slough
Just discovered this site (aug 2006): Well Done! Dad, Henryk, was in Penley hosp most of my life and died in 1957 (I was only 2). Mum, Wladyslawa (or Wanda), had 4 girls: Teresa, Elwira, Maryla & me (the youngest). We lived in Northwick Park camp. I was born in 1954 so have no recollection. Would love to hear from anyone. Have some photos. Mum remarried in 1960 when we moved to Manchester to Jozef Kapica (who was in charge of social and cultural affairs in many of the DP camps). Looking forward to hearing from my "past neighbours".
Web Team replies: Hi Irena, we'd love to see the photos and use them on this site. Get in touch or send them via email: wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk
Tue Aug 8 08:03:50 2006
Marta (Poland)
My great-grandfather didn't come back to Poland after WWII. He lived in Penrhos after the war and died in Penley hospital in 1971. His name was Tadeusz Ziolowski. Does this name ring a bell to anyone? I'd love to hear from someone who knew him!
Fri Jul 21 15:51:08 2006
Gem, Truro
ZOSIA BOURKE
If you are interested in getting in touch with Yadzia and Basia Glaz (daughters of Helena and Jan) please do leave a message. If they are the same people then Basia is my mother and Yadzia is my aunt, both still living in the Wrexham area. They came to live in Canada for a little while when my mother was about 12 years old (I think) as my nana's sister lived there. I assume you are her daughter? Please do contact me as it would be lovely - my grandad is still around too and I'm sure they would all love to be in touch!
Mon Jun 19 10:29:44 2006
Bogusia Wojciechowska, Boston, USA
I am the daughter of two Poles who met at a Polish Displaced Persons camp in England in 1948. They eventually came to live in London, where I grew up. My research focuses on the collection of oral histories from post-World War II Polish émigrés in the USA, UK, Canada and Australia. I am specifically interested in finding out: why people did not return, how they re-established and maintained contact with their families and friends in Poland, the impact of censorship on these communications, how émigrés supported their families economically in the home country. These oral histories are recorded during informal interviews which can be conducted in either Polish or English. Transcripts, as well as the original recordings, will be deposited with the Immigration History Research Center in Minnesota, as well as being archived in England. The interviews will also be stored in a computer database so they will not only be preserved but also made accessible to people worldwide. If you settled here in the years 1939-50, or know of someone who did, please contact me. If you have any letters that were written and sent from Poland during these years, I would be very interested in seeing them. I will, of course, honor any requests for anonymity. I hope to hear from you in the near future and thank you in advance for sharing your history with me.
Tue May 23 08:29:56 2006
Ela Kniaz In Sussex
I have only just thought of looking for this site. I was born in Penley on Nov 11th 1947. It is sad for me to read that Penley has now closed down just as I have started to research my place of birth. However I think I will probably still visit and would be glad to hear from anyone who might still be there.
Tue May 16 14:20:06 2006
Zosia Bourke, Toronto, Canada
I was born in Penley on April 15, 1951. My parents were Maria and Jan Soroka, I have two sisters Anna and Krystna. I have lost contact with my cousins Yadwiga and Barbra Glaz. If you could please assist me in contacting them, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
P.S. I am the first little girl with the flower box and ribbon skirt in photo #2. I have a different photo that was taken the same day.
Mon May 8 14:51:04 2006
Jerzy Lemanski, Croydon
Born in Penley hospital 11-12-47. Moved to London at the age of five. My son found this site so it will be very interesting to read about the place of which I have no memory. Parents both in the army. Dad survied Mt Casino. I must pay a visit one day.
Thu Apr 27 07:44:16 2006
Gem Witchalls, Truro
To Henk from Holland - Barbara Glaz (now Platt) is my mother and still lives in Penley, although about a mile out of the actual village. My Grandad however still lives there in Pendas Park, he is Jan Glaz (famous for catching the largest ever Pike in Ellesmere mere) and he worked as an ambulance driver and porter at the hospital. My nana was Helena and was a nurse there. She sadly isn't with us anymore.
Unfortunately most of the old Polish residents arent't there anymore, such as Mrs. Lucka (unsure of spelling) Mr. Duchnowski, Mr. Kupski, I think some of the Mazureks are still about though and a few other families. It is sad for me to see as they were all important to me as a child, the Polish community was really tight-knit. Also it is sad for my grandad who is now lonely without his old Polish friends. They have already demolished the old hospital and when I was up there last week there looked like at least 10 houses already up and inhabited on the site! I can't help feeling quite devastated about it all.
Fri Apr 21 09:38:37 2006
Halinka Rajchel Flannery
It was good to hear about the people who were connected to Penley hospital. I was born there, as my family lived at Delamere Park and my grandma (Julia Kowalska) worked at the hospital and was able to look after my older brother when mum was having me. I have some super memories of Delamere Park, near Northwich, but also am proud to have had a lovely babcia who knew so many people linked to the hospital. perhaps someone remembered her?
Wed Apr 19 10:14:11 2006
Alexander Lorent-Penley London\New york\Radomsko
It was particularly cool to hear from the woman whose father's name is Aleksander as I am Alexander, surname Penley and I met my Polish wife in Poland. So brilliant to hear about the Polish history with my family's history as well. but to hear of the horrid gentrification in such a small town is awful. Long live the Polish! Long live Penley! Long live multiculturalism.
Fri Mar 31 10:13:33 2006
Michelle
I moved to Penley when I was 4 and lived in the house with the shop, post office and petrol station with my parents, brother and sister.I attended Madrass Primary School. I have wonderful memories if the times we spent playing in the grounds of the polish camp - something you wouldn't be allowed to do now. You can't beat polish fudge, I can't remember what it was called but it was wonderful. I was sad to see it had been knocked down to make way for new builds.
Fri Mar 3 17:33:30 2006
Sandra Ellis nee Doran
I'm trying to research life at Delamere Park Camp during the 50s. I lived there from the age of 4-10 years old. I had many Polish friends, one of them being a girl called Bagoosha Yenteyeska (spelling?) I remember she had a younger brother called Mitchee, love to hear from them! I also noticed the name Iwonna
Korzeniowska posted below. Again we knew each other at school. Happy, happy memories.
Tue Feb 21 20:01:07 2006
Danuta Krystyna Puchalski
I was born in Penley in September of 1949 and so was my brother Stanley. My father worked as a cook and my mother worked as a nurses aid. We moved to Chicago in December, 1955. I loved reading the many stories and translated them to my mother who remembered many of the people that lived there.
Mon Feb 6 23:16:05 2006
Barbara Korzeniowska from London
My grandmother, Janina Wysoka, 1986 - 1978, worked in Penley as a nursing sister in the late fifties. I can remember how she used to show me how to fold her headdress in a special way when I was very small. I wonder if anyone remembers her.
Thu Feb 2 15:12:59 2006
Mary Tapuc from Argentine
I was born at Penley 58 ago. My father Constantine Tapuc, Polish, has died and my mother, Italian, Angela Giustozzi is still alive. I have some relatives at Leeds but I'd like so much to know about somebody who had met my parents.
Mon Jan 30 20:04:48 2006
Layla San Martin, Washington D.C
Most of my family on my mothers side still live in and around Penley! My Grandfather (Poiter Sadowski) Came to Penley during the war and met my grandmother (Joyce williams). All of my family went to the Maelor school. Most of my summer holidays were spent playing in the camp! I try to visit with my children at least once a year! In fact, If you look at the first picture featured on this site, I am sure that the Man second in on the far right is my Grandfather!
Fri Jan 27 08:49:15 2006
Jurek ZDANKO, Redditch, Worc's.
A great site and a very worthy one, too. I was born at Penley No 3 Polish Hospital in August 1947 - my Mother (Rozalia nee'Zych, later Zdanko)came from Maghull, near Liverpool, and I lived my formative years at Polish camps, including the famous Northwick Park Polish DP camp near Moreton in Marsh. I've retained a great deal of my "Polishness" as befits someone who was born in a "Polish Hospital" and to this date I am the chairman of the Polish Community in Redditch, a musician with Polish interests much in my repertoire, a charity fund-raiser with Polish matters much to the fore, and an activist in Polish related matters.
Sat Jan 21 09:08:38 2006
Konrad Tyborczyk now living in Manchester.
The time was July 1946 and I was 20 years old, when I arrived at Dover along with a couple of thousand other Poles.
It was pouring down with rain but that didn’t matter, it was so good to be in England at last. We had travelled from Italy and it was in October of that same year, when I went to Penley for a major operation, which transformed my life.
My neck had been twisted at birth and it rested to one side. The surgeons at Penley were able stretch and cut the main muscle in my neck, and after a long spell in plaster, I was able for the first time in my life to look straight ahead.
All in all I had two operations and spent 3 and a half months at Penley. I remember the nurses were very kind to me and helped to keep my spirits up.
Sat Jan 14 09:26:04 2006
Ted Balcerski from Bury
What a surprise. I stumbled upon this website by accident. I was born at the hospital in 1947 and visited the site in 2001 for the first time since my parents and I were relocated to Felton in Northumberland and subsequently to Maghull nr Liverpool where I was brought up.
Tue Oct 18 11:54:58 2005
Gemma Witchalls from Truro
I grew up in Penley and my grandad is one of the Polish veterans there. I was christened in the Polish chapel at the camp and my mother grew up in the barracks there. There are not many of the original Polish community left now, but I think it's a real shame that they are now demolishing the camp and hospital in order to put up a load of new housing. I have a lot of memories of the place and it's really quite sad...imagine how my grandad feels! I guess it was bound to happen but you can't help feeling nostalgic about this sort of thing!
Mon Oct 17 10:22:25 2005
Terry Milewski from Vancouver
I was born in Penley Hospital in July 1949. My father, Dr Zbigniew Milewski, served in Palestine and North Africa in the medical corps which gave birth to the hospital. I didn't know the old place had been torn down until I happened upon this site in 2005.
Tue Oct 11 02:56:31 2005
Amanda from Penley
I live in the village and I find that the Polish people are kind and polite and although they cannot speak a lot of English they are still VIPs to our community and in the village everyone knows everyone. They are respected as they should be considering what they have lived through.
Thu Sep 22 11:32:32 2005
Iwonna Francis (nee Korzeniowska)
My father Aleksander Korzeniowski spent a good part of my young life at Penley Hospital. He was an amputee and I remember visiting him from Delamere Park Camp with my mum. In fact if I remember rightly I had my tonsils out at Penley Hospital. At a funeral today for Mirek Jaworowski we happened to be discussing our roots and Penley featured in our conversation. A friend of mine, Zbyszek Baran, said that he thought he had seen a message from Regina Niedzwieczka on the message board - if that is the case or in fact if anyone else recognises the names please I would be grateful for any information. Thanks.
Wed Jul 20 15:47:42 2005
Liam Wynne from Wrexham
I am a local in Wrexham. I have noticed the increase in the number of Polish in the area. I can say that they are a very polite well mannered people. My wife and I are now learning Polish to make them feel more welcome.
Sat Jun 4 18:41:23 2005
Liz Boden from Chichester
My mother was a patient at Penley Hospital for approximately 3 years (early 1950s). During her sojourn in Siberia, she was pushed aside by a Russian soldier and fell onto a rock hidden by heavy snow. This resulted in damage to her right knee cap. My brother and I were placed in a children's home near Manchester during this period and could only visit her a few times a year.
I cannot remember the actual camp, only the ward which had two rows of beds down each side, lots of windows and a grassy area outside. The female patients always appeared cheerful and interested in us little ones.
On a number of occasions we visited my parents friend who worked as a nurse at Penley. The barrack she and her family lived in was pretty much like the barrack we lived in at Delamere Park Camp near Northwich. I am not sure what they were built of, only that they were not nissen huts. We were lucky to have a small garden around our barrack with flowers and grass, even a shed for a bicyle. At Penley I remember seeing lots of washing hanging on lines drying in the sun between the barracks.
Mon May 2 21:37:53 2005
Helena Romanowska from Bradford, West Yorkshire
I have fond memories of Penley. My parents met here as my dad was stationed there with the Army and my Mum came from Ellesmere. My dad had many friends who settled here and our childhood holidays consisted of visiting these friends.
As I grew up I used to bring my dad down in the car to visit his friends. A lot of these friends have now sadly died and my own dad died in January 2005. I still have connections to the area though and it is beautiful walking country too.
Sun Apr 24 17:18:06 2005
Marek (Middlesex)
My mother, Krystyna Parys, used to work at the Polish Hospital, Penley in the early 50's. My Grandfather is buried in the grounds of the St. Mary Magdalene Church near by.
Tue Apr 19 14:17:47 2005
Henk van Kuijk from Den Helder, Holland
In 1967 I participated in a volunteers' camp of the I.V.S. (International Voluntary Service) in Penley Hospital. We sang there quite often, and I remember I learned to sing in Polish there. The elderly people in their beds laughed their heads off with pleasure, and corrected my pronunciation. Once we were invited by the Rotary Club in Wrexham for dinner in a local hotel. We sang for them and managed to get funds for music-groups to perform at the hospital in future. At the time there was very little music. I hope that those plans really worked out.
We were at the famous folkdance festival in Llangollen. A splendid group from Poland danced there, too. They also performed at the hospital. That was really moving, some kind of reunion! We constructed a perfect outside dance-floor between the wards. The people who had to stay in their beds, were nevertheless hanging out of the windows. In the evening there was a fantastic party with, I remember, delicious Polish stew-soup. I give my regards to Barbara Gtaz (t=Polish w), who enjoyed our music very much. I still sing
Sat Mar 19 12:57:10 2005
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