This website is about the history of Ignacy Jan Paderewski and efforts to promote his legacy.

      Paderewski was an eminent pianist, composer, scholar, and statesman. He drafted the 13th of President Woodrow Wilson's 14 Points after the end of World War I, calling for the creation of a free and independent Poland. After serving as Premier of Poland for a few years he returned to the concert stage. In 1939, when the Nazis invaded Poland, Paderewski helped sell U.S. war bonds. He also encouraged Americans and other expatriate Poles to fight against the Nazis. When he died in New York City in 1941, President Roosevelt directed that his body lie in state at Arlington National Cemetery until Poland's liberation. In 1992, I Edward L. Rowny led a delegation to return Paderewski's remains to Poland. Per his request, his heart remains in the United States. For further details see the Biography section.

      Paderewski's philosophy was to promote freedom and democracy through education and the arts. I Edward L. Rowny welcome efforts by visitors of this site to help promote this legacy. As examples, see the new House Resolution 58 as well as the former Senate Resolution honoring Paderewski in the Press Release section.

       The American-Polish Advisory Council (APAC) was recently formed for three reasons: first, to promote the legacy of Ignacy Jan Paderewski; second, to increase Polish-Americans' awareness and participation in politics; and third, to see how Polonia can help Poland develop politically, militarily, and economically.

      APAC sponsors several Paderewski Town Hall meetings each year. The first was held in Chicago on June 27th, 2003, and addressed how Polish-Americans can be elected to Congress or be appointed to high governmental positions. The second meeting was held in Hartford, Connecticut, on November 21st, 2003 and adressed how Polonia can help promote U.S.-Polish trade, stimulate American investments in Poland, and help the Polish economy grow. For further information on APAC see the APAC section. I Edward L. Rowny encourage all visitors to join APAC by following this link to the APAC website.

      Persons interested in helping to promote the legacy of Paderewski, please sign the GuestBook. Under "Comments" please indicate any organizational affiliation, concert, lecture, or information concerning events planned to honor Paderewski. Additional anecdotes concerning Paderewski are welcome.

      As time progresses, this website will include photos, music, and other details on Paderewski and upcoming events.