A defiant stand against the onslaught
The village of Goworowo is located in Ostroleka County, Masovian Voivodeship and lies to the east of the centre part of Poland.
It is the seat of the administrative district of Gmina Goworowo, lying approximately 19 kilometres south of Ostroleka and is 85 kilometres north-east of the Polish capital, Warsaw.
Goworowo is a small town located in the Masovian Voivodeship of Poland. Situated in the northeastern part of the country, it holds historical significance dating back centuries. Prior to the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, Goworowo was a tranquil agricultural community, characterized by its charming rural landscape and a population primarily engaged in farming and other related activities.
Throughout its history, Goworowo was subject to various ruling powers and underwent several transformations. In the late Middle Ages, it was part of the Kingdom of Poland, experiencing periods of relative stability and prosperity. However, like many regions in Europe, Goworowo endured its fair share of conflicts and invasions.
In the 18th century, Goworowo became part of the Russian Empire following the partitions of Poland. During this time, the town saw an influx of Russian settlers and the implementation of Russian administrative structures. However, Polish culture and traditions remained resilient, with Polish language and customs prevailing among the local population.
Goworowo flourished as a center of commerce and agriculture.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought significant changes to Goworowo. With the restoration of Polish independence in 1918, following World War I, the town became an integral part of the newly established Second Polish Republic. This period saw increased investment in infrastructure, education, and industry, leading to the growth and modernization of Goworowo.
In the interwar years, Goworowo flourished as a center of commerce and agriculture. The town's proximity to the capital city of Warsaw contributed to its economic development, as it served as a trading hub for agricultural goods produced in the surrounding areas. The population grew, and new residential areas and public buildings were constructed.
However, the peaceful existence of Goworowo was shattered in September 1939 with the outbreak of World War II. As the German forces invaded Poland, Goworowo became a battlefield during the fierce defense against the German Blitzkrieg.
The town's idyllic pre-war years, characterized by its agrarian lifestyle and growth, contrasted sharply with the destruction and devastation it would witness during the war.
This exhibition in Goworowo commemorated the events of the 8 and 9th September 1939 after the Germans invaded Poland. Located in the square around the obelisk, it was dedicated to the memory of the victims of the events and those who gave their lives for a free Poland.
The photographs used (In which colourised versions appear on this website) were originally taken by German soldiers at the time. Some were provided by the Imperial War Museum in the UK and others from the private collection of Maciej Tworkowski.
The German attack
Goworowo held strategic importance as a key bridgehead across the Narew River. It was here that the Polish defenders, lacking in heavy armor and air support, dug in to face the onslaught of the German war machine.
Colonel Filipowicz, aware of the formidable challenge before him, deployed his troops with skillful determination, maximizing the advantages offered by the local terrain.
Map of the Campaign in Poland, 1 - 14 September 1939.
Invasion of Poland Maps - September 1939 « Historical Resources About The Second World War
From the outset, the Germans underestimated the tenacity and grit of the Polish defenders. Expecting an easy conquest, they launched a series of attacks, only to be met with fierce resistance from the trenches, bunkers, and natural obstacles meticulously prepared by the Polish forces.
The German juggernaut was brought to a shuddering halt by the determined Poles, who fought with an unwavering spirit.
Burning street in the village of Goworowo after its capture by elements of the "Kempf" Panzer Division (Panzer-Division Kempf).
For days, the battlefield resounded with the cacophony of battle. The Polish defenders, armed with little more than rifles and a fierce resolve, engaged in brutal hand-to-hand combat with their German counterparts.
The air was thick with the acrid stench of gunpowder, and the earth trembled under the weight of exploding shells. In this hellish cauldron, the Poles clung desperately to their positions, turning Goworowo into a fortress of defiance.
Smoke and flame engulf buildings at the village of Goworowo after its capture by elements of the "Kempf" Panzer Division (Panzer-Division Kempf), 9 September 1939.
The Germans, frustrated by the unexpected resistance, unleashed a barrage of artillery and aerial bombardments in a desperate bid to break the Polish defense.
Yet, despite the relentless onslaught, the Polish soldiers stood firm, their spirits unyielding. Wave after wave of German attacks crashed against the Polish lines, only to be shattered by the indomitable will of the defenders.
German soldier, serviceman of the "Kempf" Panzer Division (Panzer-Division Kempf), crossing a bridge in the burning village of Goworowo.
Alas, even the bravest resistance cannot withstand the full force of overwhelming numbers forever. With dwindling supplies and isolated from reinforcements, the Polish defenders at Goworowo were eventually forced to retreat. Their withdrawal marked a tactical victory for the Germans, but it came at a heavy cost.
The Poles had inflicted significant casualties on the enemy, buying precious time for the Polish military and civilian evacuations.
SS artillery crew of the "Kempf" Panzer Division (Panzer-Division Kempf) changing position in the village of Goworowo. Note Sd.Kfz. 10 half-tracks towing more guns on the road.
Aftermath
The treatment of Polish civilians in Goworowo after the German attack in 1939 was marked by fear, uncertainty, and a harsh occupation. The German forces, having conquered the town, imposed their authority and subjected the local population to a series of oppressive measures.
Polish civilians, guarded by German soldiers, are forced to leave the burning village of Goworowo, 9 September 1939. The village was captured by the elements of the "Kempf" Panzer Division (Panzer-Division Kempf).
German soldiers established a military administration, enforcing strict control over all aspects of civilian life. Curfews were imposed, restricting the movement of the townspeople. The Polish inhabitants found themselves under constant surveillance, living in a state of perpetual anxiety and vulnerability.
The occupation authorities implemented a policy of terror and intimidation, aiming to quell any resistance or dissent. Polish civilians were subjected to frequent searches, arbitrary arrests, and brutal interrogations. Many were detained, taken away from their families, and transported to detention centers or concentration camps.
Goworowo suffered extensive damage during the Invasion of Poland.
"Goworowo-September 1939" – exhibition
This exhibition in Goworowo commemorated the events of the 8 and 9th September 1939 after the Germans invaded Poland. Located in the square around the obelisk, it was dedicated to the memory of the victims of the events and those who gave their lives for a free Poland.
The photographs used (In which colourised versions appear on this website) were originally taken by German soldiers at the time.
Some were provided by the Imperial War Museum in the UK and others from the private collection of Maciej Tworkowski.
Further reading
