Lucian Kryger

Living Category - Inducted 1989  

As a teenager Lucian had recorded several 78 RPM recordings with his father's orchestra (Brunon Kryger) on the Harmonia Label of N.Y. In 1951 Lucian, Jerry and brother Bruce recorded two 78 rpm recordings for Polo Records.  One of the hit sides was entitled, "Little Boy Oberek."  Lucian started recording for RAVE Records of Bethlehem, PA in 1962 and at the present time he is recording for Starr Records of Florida, N.Y.

The personal appearances of the Kryger Orchestra spread all thru the Eastern Coast.  In reminiscing about the past, Lucian mentions some places that were once very popular in his time and area, but that have since faded out of the picture to be replaced by our more modern polka festivals, which are held In very plush locations around the country.  One of the most memorable parks was that of Sans Souci Park in Wilkes-Barre, where "Kryger Day" was celebrated each year and thousands attended.  Other popular locations that were popular then were as follows: Granada Ballroom, Wilkes-Barre; Central Park, Allentown, PA; Lakeview Ballroom, Barnesville, PA; Hazle Park, Hazleton, PA; Mickey's Gardens, Larksville, PA; and the list could go on-and-on.

Lucian conducted a polka show each Sunday from 12 Noon till 1 P.M. for approximately 15 years over radio station WBAX in Wilkes-Barre, PA, and was also associated with radio station WILK in Wilkes-Barre and radio station WNAK in Nanticoke, PA.  For two consecutive years (1979-1981) the orchestra televised a Polka Show once per month live from the Pocono Hershey Ballroom in the Pocono Mountains of PA.  In 1987 The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Inc. (GRAMMY) nominated the orchestra as one of the top five polka bands in the U.S. & Canada.  To this day, Lucian and the orchestra find the time to donate their time and talents to charitable organizations and institutions such as: The Cancer Drive of Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre area and the Hea Association of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., The Veterans Hospital in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.  Lucian resides at 23 Diebel Street in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., with his wife, Eleanor.  They are parents of two daughters, Lucianne Grohowski and Alison Kryger, and grandparents of Ryann and Stephen Grohowski of Wilkes-Barre, Pa.