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From Poland: Spirit and Strength

Celebrate Polish heritage, creativity, and community

Running from Tuesday 24 March to October 2026 at the National Civil War Centre, From Poland: Spirit and Strength explores Poland’s rich cultural legacy and its deep connections to Newark and Sherwood.

Bringing together personal stories, historic objects, craft, innovation, and shared experiences, this exhibition invites visitors to celebrate Poland’s legacy of creativity and determination.

A collaboration between Open Doors, Brew Projects, and local people with Polish heritage, From Poland: Spirit and Strength highlights significant moments from Poland’s past and present, including innovations, traditions, notable figures, entertainment, and more.

A photo of the From Poland exhibition room, showing all the cases and artifacts on the walls

Polish culture forms a significant part of Newark and Sherwood’s identity, with Polish now the second most spoken language in the district after English. From medieval trade routes and wartime history to modern‑day family life, the exhibition reflects the many ways Polish heritage has shaped—and continues to shape—the local area.

Alongside items loaned from the Polish community, From Poland: Spirit and Strength features previously unseen objects from the National Civil War Centre’s museum collections. Chosen by community participants, these objects reflect what Polish culture means to those living, working, and studying in Newark and Sherwood today.

From Poland: Spirit and Strength also showcases Newark's historic links with Poland, from the Polish War Graves at Newark Town Cemetery—which includes the burial site of legendary World War II General Wladyslaw Sikorski—to our town's twinning with the Polish town of Sandomierz.