Here, a modest residential street tells a story far bigger than its size. This is Lubawska.
Lubawska Street, a simple street in Warsaw, holds more history than one might imagine. Let’s delve into the past and uncover the echoes of a vibrant community.
At the end of the 18th century, Sienna and Śliska Streets began. These streets witnessed rich Polish-Jewish social relationships during the 19th century. Poles and Jews lived in the tenement houses along Sienna and Śliska Streets. Although this is not Lubawska, the area shares a common history.
In 1878, the Bersohn and Bauman Children’s Hospital opened its doors. Jewish philanthropists from two families founded it. The hospital treated children without charge, no matter their religion. This act of kindness shaped the community’s character. The hospital was located at 60 Sienna Street.
By the turn of the 20th century, shops and businesses thrived. A popular cinema entertained locals. A fittings factory contributed to the economy. The Society for Mutual Assistance of Trade and Industrial Workers supported the community. Educational institutions sprang up in the 1930s. These establishments helped to educate the local youth.
During the occupation, Sienna Street became part of the small ghetto. Mary Berg, a teenager, lived at 41 Sienna Street. She wrote one of the most famous diaries from the Warsaw ghetto. Her words give us insight into life during this tragic time. The Orphans’ Home, led by Stefania Wilczyńska and Janusz Korczak, moved to 16 Sienna Street.
During both the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and the Warsaw Uprising, the Bersohn and Bauman Children’s Hospital remained open. Doctors and nurses treated patients despite the danger. The hospital became a historic monument, surviving the war’s destruction. The Warsaw Ghetto Museum plans to create its permanent exhibition there.
While Lubawska Street may not be directly mentioned in these historical accounts, it shares the same streets nearby. The stories of Sienna and Śliska Streets reflect the broader context of Warsaw’s history. Lubawska is a witness to the resilience and spirit of the people who lived here.
As you walk along Lubawska, remember the families. Remember the children, and remember the stories etched into the very stones beneath your feet. The echoes of the past resonate. Lubawska Street stands as a testament to Warsaw’s enduring spirit.