Halloween Bowling in 1940s, from the Polish Community of Syracuse, NY collection, courtesy of Syracuse Polish Home

Institutions like the Syracuse Polish Home have helped immigrants settle into life in Central New York for over a hundred years.  By celebrating both Polish heritage and the Polish-American experience, the Polish Home bridges cultural divides.  The confluence of traditions and activities captured in this photograph reflects the American experience.  American Halloween traditions are an amalgamation of cultural elements that were brought to this country by various immigrant groups.  Bowling is also a cultural import—originating in Ancient Egypt, evolving into modern forms in Europe, and later calcifying among immigrants in New York City.  We could use more displays of cultural union these days.