Antoniów

Antoniów is a village in Poland, located in the Opole Voivodeship, within Opole County, in the municipality of Ozimek. It boasts a rich history dating back to 1780, when it was established near the Jedlica Ironworks. The village was created from existing colonies—Lasy, Niwki, and Krzyżowa Dolina—whose inhabitants were tasked with ensuring regular supplies of charcoal to the nearby ironworks. The development of the village was driven by the need to supply wood, which led to the construction of 20 two-family houses between 1781 and 1782. In 1784, Antoniów gained official village rights, and by 1793, the population had grown to 55 families. A plebiscite was held in the village, in which the majority of voters supported Germany. In 1939, Antoniów was incorporated into Ozimek, and in 1948, it was given a Polish name. The village's architecture features a distinctive wooden house from 1840, which was relocated to an open-air museum, showcasing local building traditions. The village is home to a primary school with a rich history, established in 1781. The school has undergone numerous transformations, and its current building was opened in 2003 with the involvement of various institutions, including the German Minority. Antoniów also has its own fire brigade, founded in 1928, which has undergone various organizational and equipment changes over the years. In 1996, the unit faced a crisis, but in 2005, efforts were made to rebuild it, including the acquisition of a fire engine. Cultural traditions are also cherished in the village, and the school engages in various educational projects, including programs funded by the European Union. An interesting fact is that in 1902, residents subscribed to Polish-language newspapers, reflecting the local community's appreciation for Polish culture and language. Despite its modest size, Antoniów is a place full of history and traditions that shape the cultural identity of the village.