Chronicles growth, influence of Jewish settlement in Pioneer Valley.
Guest curator Dr. Stuart Anfang The story of Jewish settlement in the Pioneer Valley is detailed in “One Hundred Years of Jewish Life in the Valley: From Shtetl to Suburb,” a new exhibit that goes on view at the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History, from Sept. 17 to March 2.
“The story of Jewish immigrants and their work to develop a thriving community over the last century is a fascinating tale of courage, hard work, and perseverance. Their story is unique, but also emblematic of the challenges faced by so many immigrant groups throughout America’s history,” said Guy McLain, director of the Wood Museum of Springfield History, in a release.
The exhibit chronicles how Jewish immigrants first came to the region, many as a result of pogroms in Czarist Russia in the late 19th century. Early leaders of the Jewish community are also highlighted, including Leopold Karpeles, a Bohemian Jew who settled in Springfield, and was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor during the Civil War.
Through a combination of artifacts, photos, film and personal histories, the exhibit documents the growth of Jewish settlement in size and influence, and in the institutions they founded, from the early 20th century to the present day. During this time, many Jewish families settled on streets in the North End of Springfield. The exhibit includes a number of photographs and artifacts documenting Jewish life in that neighborhood.
The impact of change in such neighborhoods after World War II is also documented. By 1966, two-thirds of the area Jewish population resided in either the Forest Park section of Springfield, or Longmeadow.
Guest curator for the exhibit is Dr. Stuart Anfang, past president of Temple Beth El, and medical director for adult outpatient psychiatry at Baystate Medical Center.
The exhibit is sponsored by Beth El, with support from Jewish Endowment Foundation, West Springfield-based Harold Grinspoon Foundation, Chez Josef in Agawam, Dave’s Soda and Pet City, and Jewish Geriatric Services. The media partner for the exhibit is The Jewish Ledger. MassMutual is the 2013 Premier Sponsor of the Springfield Museums.
General admission to the museums is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students, $8 for children 3 to 17, and free for children under three and museum members. This fee provides admission to all four Springfield Museums. Springfield residents receive free general admission with proof of address.
The Springfield Museums are located on the Quadrangle at 21 Edwards St. in downtown Springfield, Massachusetts. Free onsite parking is available. Hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.