"The activity of this famous family affects almost all manifestations of our Renaissance from the beginning of the last century, as well as the preparation of the church question, without which it would not be known that even Bulgarian nationality exists.
The Chalakovtsi built in Plovdiv Bulgarian churches in Marasha and Karshiak; they supported almost all monasteries in present day Bulgaria; they were guardians of the Rila and Bachkovo monasteries, where their faces were also depicted; their kind is the organizer of most schools in southern Bulgaria, mainly in Plovdiv and Koprivshtitsa. The Chalkovtsi built schools of their own funds and provided them with income for their livelihood. They subsidized teachers and sent capable young people to study in upper schools. In general, all their social activities portray a commendable patriotism. The activity of the Chalakov family takes on even greater importance, taking into account the time and conditions under which they worked. This time coincides with the official recognition by Selima III of the Greek schools and the universal embrace of all the more awakened Bulgarians in the cities. Greek schools are becoming the biggest danger. They threaten to denationalize everything Bulgarian. There are times when any consciousness of Bulgarian nationality goes out in cities like Plovdiv. More affluent and high-ranking Bulgarians considered themselves proud to call themselves "Romnos" (Romeos) (the Turks called the Greeks "Rum-millets"). Greek citizenship becomes a common cult. This is when the dark and tragic times the Chalakovtsi family appears, and with a firmness worthy of imitation, begins to develop its salvation for the people.
Indeed, the revival of the Bulgarian people is the work of dozens of prominent figures and hundreds of other equally deserving workers, but the Chalakovtsi family remains one of the most prominent among the guardians of our people.
In conclusion, the javelins, runaways, and especially the Chalakov family, played an enviable role in our national awakening.
The Bulgarian people owe them respect and gratitude. Who knows how long our Revival would be delayed without them. "Yoakim Gruev
Ключови думи: Stoyan Teodorovich Chalakov, Valko Teodorovich Chalakov, Valko Kurtovich, Stoyan Kurtovich, Koprivshtitsa, Plovdiv, Mizia, Thrace, Macedonia, Rada Kurtovic, sheep, Istanbul
