Bukowo

Bukowo, a village in the Pomeranian Voivodeship, boasts a rich history dating back to 1352, when it received its founding privilege from a Teutonic Knight commander. Although the document was lost due to an invasion, Sigismund I the Old renewed the privilege in 1526. Over the centuries, Bukowo endured numerous devastations, including during the "Swedish Deluge" and the Northern Wars, as well as a plague epidemic in 1709. By 1753, the village had a population of about 200. Following the Third Partition of Poland, Bukowo came under Prussian control, which influenced its social structure, with 40% of residents owning large farms. In the 19th century, Bukowo began to develop, and the emerging infrastructure, including a railway line, contributed to further population growth, reaching 524 people by 1865. The village flourished despite fires that destroyed its buildings, and new houses began to be constructed from brick. In the 20th century, Bukowo was the site of tragic events during World War II, losing many of its inhabitants. After the war, the village was resettled by new colonists, mainly from central Poland. In the postwar period, various institutions were established, such as a State Agricultural Farm (PGR) and an agricultural cooperative, as well as a fire station and a new school. The church, well-known for local traditions, was built in 1986, and the bell from the previous church was relocated and now serves as a clock bell. Bukowo is also home to a mill, established in 1601, which underwent many changes and eventually ceased operations in 1910. The village celebrated its 650th anniversary in 2002, a reminder of its long and complex history with a rich cultural and architectural heritage.