[Negri Picture]

Modjeska (Modrzejewska), Helen
(1840 - 1909)

Actress. Born Oct. 12, 1840, near Tarnow, Poland, nee Opid. In 1857 married Gustaw Modrzejewski [error: never married to G.M.]; had two children: Rudolph and Mary. Her husband died in 1860 [check this]. In 1861 started her career on the stage in Krakow, Poland. On Sept. 12, 1868, married Charles Bozenta Chlapowski, in Krakow, who took part in the Polish insurrection against Russia in 1863. On the 13th day of September, 1868, left Krakow and went to Warsaw, where she had been offered an engagement of twelve performances during October. In 1869 signed a contract with the Warsaw Theater. In 1876 she left, with her husband, for U.S. and settled in California; studied English in San Francisco. Invited by the Women's Congress, came to Chicago, to participate in the convention during the Chicago Columbia Exposition in 1893; condemned Russia and Prussia, for prohibiting her return to Warsaw. Poland. Began her artistic career in U. S. as a tragedienne of Shakespearean characters and won unanimous acclaim. A great philanthropist, especially for the Polish cause. She spent much money for the restoration of the Sukiennice (warehouse cloth hall) in Krakow, Poland; a very religious woman, member of the Polish Women's Alliance of America. In Annaheim, Cal., where she spent five years of her life, there is a monument in honor of her, sculptured by Eugene Mein-Kruege, in 1935. A ranch named in her memory, Modjeska Ranch, is in the Mnts. of Santa Anna, Cal. Died April 8, 1909 in Newton Beach, Cal.

From: "Who's Who in Polish America" by Rev. Francis Bolek, Editor-in-Chief; Harbinger House, New York, 1943

Helena Modjeska Medal [Arrow Picture]

Helena Modjeska's Residence "Arden" [Arrow Picture]