Speaking of Highwaymen

Kolbush (also spelled Kolbusz - depending one which brother I am researching) is not a very common surname. It has proven a difficult task, and all we really know is that they immigrated from Galicia, originally part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, then after WW1 it became part of Poland.


In researching the area of Galicia we have come across a town name, Kolbuszowa, of which the history imparts a colorful origin. According to one legend the town is named after a robber highwayman named Kolbuch or Kolbush or perhaps Kolbas, who ran wild in this vicinity and did a great deal of mischief. When he was finally caught and the danger was past, the incident was immortalized by naming the place after him. Archeological finds indicate the area was originally inhabited by shepherds and farmers of Slavic origin. Artisans of that area were known for their master carpentry skills and stories of their accomplishments were passed down through the generations including the those of the famous "Kolbuszowa violins" and furniture.


Okay - so back to the highwayman theme - if my ancestral blood originates from there: then the highwayman blood mixed with my gypsy blood combined with my spouse's pirate blood means our children are apparently doomed to have a raucously good time - at least that's what I tell them! Let us hope that my mother-in-law's puritan blood will keep them in check.