CZ: Úhlejov - Erben's Parentage Birthplace

The village of Úhlejov is located in Hradec Králové Region, Jičín district, 2 kilometres distant from Miletín and 8 kilometres far from Hořice v Podkrkonoší. Uhlejov is consisted of two local quarters, such as: Uhlejov and Chroustov, and four communities, such as: Brodek, Zavadilka, Růžovka and Horní Mlýn. This locality has total extent of approx. 412 ha (181 ha in Úhlejov cadastre and 231 ha in Chroustov cadastre). The village has totally 114 inhabitants. Three torrents flow through the community, such as: Lukaveček, Trotinka and Uhlejov brook. which mounts into Bystrý brook.

History

The first written message about Uhlejov as about „Huleyowie Villa“ is dated to 1267. In 13th century, the community formed a part of German Knights´ dominion. Since 1423, the locality was in possession of Diwiš Borek, and later, within 1515-1540, the area was in ownership of powerful Trčka of Lípa Parentage, followed by Smiřický Parentage during 1540-1560. However, afterthat, Uhlejov changed many owners, and finally, the locality came into possession of František Xaver Cecinkar, Knight of Birnice, and Princess Rosa Hohenlohe of Barstein.

Regarding important natives, these are, for instance the following personalities: Colonel J. Voňka (1854-1918), his son K. Vonka (1898-1967) - surgeon and head physician of Hořice hospital, A. Balatka (1826-1876)-ship doctor, V. Machek (1894-1965) - University Professor and linguist. From Úhlejov, Erben´s Parentage comes. In old  land-registers, there is a notice that, in 1704, Adam Erben, great-great grandfather of Karel Jaromír Erben, bought a real estate there. It is characteristic symptom that most scenes of Erben´s works have its scenes in local surroundings.

In 1816, small chapel, consecrated to St. John Nepomuk, was constructed there. Anyway, local inhabitants named it as St. Martin small chapel, as a relief of this saint was placed on the shield, probably as a mark of respect to mayor Martin Balihar. The chapel was built there during his administration in the village. The community contributed for its construction, it was the first individual action of local administration.

The community of Brodek was founded within 18th century. Its name was derived from small ford on Bystřice-river. At present, this place is very popular weekend-houses and relax area, but most of old holders are living there.

The community of Růžovka named originally as Hruzovka, in accordance with rough local climate. In 1895, the name of Růžovka appeared, derived, from another source, from big number of wild-rose bushes, blowing in the spring. Anyway, according to another source, the name was founded from characteristic colour of this countryside at sunset. A field path is leading to the village. It is one of most picturesque tourist trails to the top of Zvičina Hill.

The community of Zavadilka was established in 1902, as a group of houses „Na Zavadilce“, which served as a pub with grocer´s and culture and social centre at the same time. However, in 1955, the pub was closed, and later, in 1962, the building was reconstruction for flat unit. New culture house, specialized for social purposes, was built there, where also foodstuff shop was installed.

Chroustov was originally an independent community, later served as school village, and joined to Úhlejov in 1990.

Text: Maxim Kucer 

Translation: ing. Jan Jonáš

Photo: Uhlejov.cz