In 1927, the Meironys branch of the St. Casimir Society was founded. It was headed by Genutė Blažytė (other sources state that Kazys Blažys and Alejūnaitė). Their activities were modest but significant: they organized parties with plays, May Day celebrations, lectures with music and dances, and gatherings that helped maintain Lithuanian identity. In 1929, the 2-year anniversary of the Meironai branch of the St. Casimir Society was marked on the eve of St. Lawrence's Indulgence by erecting a stone cross – a monument – at the beginning of the village. It was written: „Saint Casimir, patron of Lithuania, lead our Homeland into a bright future.“
At night, the cross was demolished and sunk in Lūšiai by Polish border guards: only the foundations and the crucifix remained. Fishermen found the „wrecked object“, but they could only raise it after the lake froze over the estuary. It was hidden for more than 10 years, and was only restored on 26 May 1940. Now the monument's surroundings are maintained by the women of the village, Ignalina eldership.
The location of the monumental cross is not accidental. Back in the early 20th century, crosses stood at the beginning and end of every village, and they were supposed to protect the village from disasters.
Information updated 2025-12-11
Reviews