In 1933 a group of foresighted men, led by Joseph Jankowski, began organizing what was to quickly become one of the finest musical and entertainment organizations located in Philadelphia. 

Following a pattern set by a number of existing string bands, the organization chose its name based on the roots of its original members. On July 3, 1933, in the predominately Polish neighborhood of Port Richmond, the Polish American String Band was established.

From that day on, Polish American has made their mark in mum history, with 11 first prizes and 14 second prizes placing in the top ten 81 of 85 years, Polish American continues to capture the attention and wonder of many every year with their performances.

Polish American String Band is, today, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization still based out of the Port Richmond section Philadelphia, PA which we have called home since our inception.  While the organization functions primarily to participate in the annual Philadelphia Mummers' Parade on New Year's Day, competing in the String Band Division against fifteen other bands from the area, this is only a facet of what Polish American does.  Equally important to the club and its members is the motivation to honor the traditions of those who came before us and work to keep our Polish heritage, our String Band heritage, and the music of both alive and thriving throughout the Greater Philadelphia Area.  Valuing their community, Polish American participates in a variety of local charitable functions, events, and initiatives through their support or by performing at their events.  Additionally, Polish American participates in many parades and concerts both locally and on the road throughout the year where their travels may take them as far as Boston, MA and Buffalo, NY on occasion.  In fact, Polish American has performed around the world with trips to both Poland and Rome where they had the select honor of having played in a private audience with Pope John Paul II.  

Wherever there is music, laughter, revelry, and a smile, there's a good chance you'll find Polish American String Band.