“What whispers rise from the stones beneath our feet?” I ask. Here stands the Mauzoleum Żydów Bojowników o Niepodległość Polski. It is a testament to Jewish fighters for Poland’s independence. This monument resides within Warsaw’s Wola Jewish cemetery. It commemorates Jews who fought for Poland’s freedom.
Let’s delve into the history of this solemn place. The idea for the Mauzoleum Żydów Bojowników o Niepodległość Polski arose in 1938. Warsaw’s Jewish community sought to honor Jewish insurgents. These included Kościuszko Uprising soldiers and Napoleonic soldiers. Also November Uprising insurgents and January Uprising insurgents were to be remembered. Soldiers of World War I and soldiers of the Polish Army were included. They fought in wars against Soviet Russia. These wars happened after the Great War ended. Maurycy Mayzel spearheaded the initiative. He chaired the Jewish community at the time.
Initially, the Mauzoleum Żydów Bojowników o Niepodległość Polski planned a unique tribute. Berek Joselewicz and Henryk Wohl were to be honored. Marcin Weinfeld was chosen to design the mausoleum. His design differed. Yet, it gained community approval.
Construction began in 1939. Workers removed gravestones to make way. They placed them on a mound. Then they erected a concrete and brick structure. World War II halted progress. The project never resumed after the war. In the 1990s salvaged gravestones were set upright. These early 19th-century stones were richly carved. Natan Glücksberg’s stone was among them. No burials occurred within the unfinished structure.
Fast forward to 2019. Work restarted to complete the Mauzoleum Żydów Bojowników o Niepodległość Polski. The pre-war design by Weinfeld was used. Witold Sztorc adapted it. The Cultural Heritage Foundation funded the work. The PKO Bank Polski Foundation supported it too. The project concluded in November 2019. Secondary matzevot were removed. Two original tombstones remained. These belonged to the Tytelman family from the 19th century. Also remaining was the tombstone of Adam Markus Lewiński. He was a lawyer and reserve lieutenant. He fell in battle in 1939 near Mława. No other graves exist within the mausoleum. Stones now cover the ground. They symbolize remembrance. A sandstone monument rises above. It features a bas-relief of a legionary eagle. A Star of David adorns its shield.
The Mauzoleum Żydów Bojowników o Niepodległość Polski stands as a powerful symbol. It embodies the enduring bond. This bond is between the Jewish people and Poland. It shows their shared struggle for freedom. Let us remember those honored here. They fought valiantly for an independent Poland. Their sacrifices must never be forgotten.