Kędzierzynka

Kędzierzynka is a village in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, within the Myślenice County. As part of the Dobczyce municipality, it covers an area of 498.3 hectares. Its history dates back to the 13th century, when it was known as Kędzierza Wola, and later became part of the Stadnicki estate. The village was inhabited by peasants, and its residents paid tithes to the church in Gdów, illustrating local religious traditions. In 1513, the village was sold to Mikołaj of Wielopole, and in the 19th century, Kędzierzynka became a destination for economic emigration to the United States, which influenced the development of local farms. By the beginning of the 20th century, the village had changed hands multiple times, and its population numbered 278. During the interwar period, youth and cultural activities flourished. In 1928, a monument commemorating independence was erected, reflecting local patriotism. World War II brought significant changes, including the organization of secret education and partisan activities. Surrounded by forests, the residents of Kędzierzynka participated in the resistance movement and faced repression from the communist authorities after the war. Despite economic development during the Polish People's Republic, rural culture began to decline, and younger generations did not continue cultural traditions. Kędzierzynka is home to two important historical landmarks: the Monument to Polish Independence from 1928 and a stone shrine with the Virgin Mary from 1871, both testifying to the village's rich history and local community. The village is also a popular tourist destination, especially for mushroom picking and hiking, thanks to its proximity to forests. Kędzierzynka is a place of unique heritage, seamlessly blending tradition, history, and local culture into a harmonious whole.