Emigration Museum, Gdynia

The Emigration Museum in Gdynia, Poland, stands as a poignant testament to the myriad journeys undertaken by Polish emigrants over the centuries. Situated in the historic Marine Station, a building with its own ties to the narrative of travel and departure, the museum opened its doors to the public in 2015, offering a comprehensive look at the causes, experiences, and consequences of Polish emigration.

The museum's exhibits are spread across several thematic areas, each delving into different aspects of the emigration saga. Visitors can explore the various waves of migration, from the mass exodus in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to the post-World War II displacements and the more recent economic migrations. Personal stories, artifacts, and multimedia displays bring to life the hopes, struggles, and cultural impacts of those who left their homeland in search of a better life.

One of the museum's highlights includes a permanent exhibition titled "Polish Emigration – the Polish People’s Journey," which guides visitors through seven galleries, each representing a different period and destination in the history of Polish emigration. The narrative is enriched with letters, photographs, and personal belongings donated by emigrants and their descendants, making the experience deeply personal and engaging.

The Emigration Museum also functions as a cultural and research center, hosting temporary exhibitions, workshops, conferences, and educational programs. Its location in Gdynia, a city itself shaped by the movements of people and goods across the sea, adds another layer of significance to the museum's mission.