Dąbrowy

Dąbrowy is a village in Poland, located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, within the administrative district of Rozogi. As of 2021, it had a population of 1,198. Settlement in the area began in the 17th century, with the first mentions of Dąbrowy appearing in the inspection records of royal estates from 1660–1661. In the 18th century, the village gained importance due to the operation of brickyards and amber mines. Located near the border, Dąbrowy experienced a shift from seasonal to permanent settlement, which influenced its development and character. During the 19th century, both the population and number of households grew. The village was also a witness to events related to the January Uprising, when insurgent forces attacked Russian customs chambers. In 1889, residents erected four crosses at the village entrances in an effort to stop a cholera epidemic. Development accelerated in the 20th century with the establishment of a Volunteer Fire Department and local youth associations. Administratively, Dąbrowy has undergone several changes. It was incorporated into the Szczytno County in 1961, and a 1998 reform reinstated its status within the Rozogi municipality. The village is home to a School and Kindergarten Complex and serves as the seat of the Parish of St. Joseph the Bridegroom. Culturally, Dąbrowy is known for its Kurpie traditions, reflected in the works of folk artists such as Waleria Żarnoch and Ignacy Zyśk. Architecturally, the village features numerous roadside shrines from various periods of the 20th century, which testify to local religious and cultural traditions. As the largest Kurpie settlement in the region, Dąbrowy plays a key role in preserving regional cultural identity. An interesting fact is the 2005 referendum in which residents voted to remain part of the Rozogi municipality, demonstrating strong community identity and active engagement in local affairs.