Greetings.

I have been researching the migrations and career paths of two brothers from Gniewkowo during the late 19th- early 20th century period. Each changed the original, longer, Polish-suffixed surname to a shorter, simpler form, presumably for commerce and to avoid mispronunciation, but still conserving the -sky/-ski suffix.

The most interesting thing I have found is that, during the early 20th century, one brother moved to Chicago and established a thriving business there, and identified more with the Poles in his community, giving to Polish causes, etc., while his brother who remained in the southwestern region of the U.S. affiliated with the Sons of Hermann, a German organization. His wife, who was once asked to translate a Polish book, stated that her language was German, and that she was German. Her maiden surname also had the -ski suffix.

I am aware that there were German Poles and Polish Germans, and it may be that this family encompassed both. However, I would appreciate any shared references and knowledge.

In addition, I am trying to learn what the most compelling reason for emigration from Gniewkowo would have been in the late 19th century.

Thank you - Juliet