Letter to Erwin Oreck from Helen and Ed Woeber at Arrowhead Lodge in reply to a letter inviting the Woeber's to luncheon on their first trip to Duluth. The Woeber's tell of the stay of Lee, Allen and their wives.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Theatrice "T" Williams (1934 - ) gives his personal background and reasons for arriving in Minneapolis in the 1960s as a social worker on the North Side. Williams describes his relationship with the Phyllis Wheatley Center (director from 1965 - 1972) within the context of the American civil rights movement. The race riots on Plymouth avenue and other issues are explored in the context of the Jewish community, local politics and community organizations or initiatives such as the Urban Coalition. The interview concludes with a reflection on the North Side of Minneapolis as it is today and the construction of I-94. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Arthur Weisberg gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and legal practitioner. He recalls grew up on the North Side of Minneapolis and how his father was a dentist who ended up as an investor. Weisberg goes on to describe his time at North High, becoming a journalist in central Minnesota, working in the film industry in Minneapolis, and finally attending Minneapolis Law School (now William Mitchell) during the late 1940s. Weisberg tells about how he subsequently worked for Dorsey law firm and how he was active in community service. The two talk about notable people at virtually every stage of his life, with particular attention to Jewish culture in law and business in Minnesota. This interview was conducted by Linda Schloff as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Jerry Weinberg gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and World War II veteran. He was born in 1921 in St. Paul, Minnesota. Weinberg explains that his father owned a hardware store on West 7th and an appliance store on Rice Street. He recalls his enlistment attempt during World War II with the army to be a teletype operator in the Philippines and later New Guinea. Weinberg discusses his memories here and tells his stories from a Jewish and Minnesotan perspective. He concludes the interview by talking about his post-war life in St. Paul working in the store on Rice Street, his family, and by showing Fay Kaye photographs and other wartime memorabilia. This interview was conducted by Fay Kaye as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Erwin Oreck from Helen Woeber at Arrowhead Lodge in reply to a letter from October 4th. Arrowhead Lodge discribes how Oreck believes they discriminate based on religion, and how they do not, but simple do not want "riffraff."
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Erwin Oreck from Helen Woeber at Arrowhead Lodge in reply to Oreck's reply. Helen and Ed Woeber state they were as mistaken as Oreck was of them and will stop in for luncheon when they are in Duluth.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter written to Harry Goldie, principle developer of the Calhoun Beach Club building. Goldie was a Minnesota native and U of MN graduate. At the time this letter was written, Minneapolis was being referred to in the national press as the "Capitol of American Anti-Semitism." Jews in Minneapolis were denied membership in various associations, hospital admissions and were legally prohibited from purchasing homes in "covenanted" areas. Goldie's complex was eventually built, and Hubert Humphrey and Walter Mondale were among the guests at the club's opening.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Rosemary Brown from Martha Urbon at Birchwood Resort on Lake Vermilion discribing what accomodations are available and notes "restricted clientele."
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Ken Tilsen gives a brief account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and lawyer, touching also on Minnesota politics. He was born in Leipzig, North Dakota, to parents of eastern European heritage. An account is given as to why Jews immigrated to rural North Dakota. He gives family history and early memories of growing up in the predominately Jewish Selby-Dale neighborhood. The discussion turns to a variety of topics, including Ken's political activism in the 1960s before and after law school and his connections with a number of notable people and organizations. The interview amounts to a narrative about Minnesota's legal and political history during this time from his perspective and that of his associates. Further discussions involve HUAC, Jewish legal practice, and community activism. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Alex Tankenoff (1905 - ) grew up poor and Jewish in St. Paul, Minnesota, eventually owning a successful brewery and brewery equipment company. In this interview, the discussion follows Tankenoff's life story, brewery business and involvement in the Bremer Foundation of St. Paul, Minnesota. This interview was conducted by Dr. Linda Mack Schloff, former director of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest, in effort to document the stories of Jewish immigration to and community leaders in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Audio file of an interview with Sylvia Peilen conducted by Ann Greenberg. The interview includes: Peilen family history, including growing up on the East side and moving to the West side of St. Paul; Jewish-gentile relations; Sylvia Peilen's schooling and early employment history. Peilen also recalls her work with several different community service organizations, including Sholom Home, Youth Allyah, United Jewish Fund, the St Paul Jewish Community Center and Temple of Aaron.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Mark Swedlund (1950 - ) discusses his father's building company Ecklund and Swedlund, which constructed homes in the western suburbs of Minneapolis during the period of returning World War II G. I.'s and immigration of Jewish families from North Minneapolis. Development and building are discussed within this historical and geographical context. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Debra Stone (1952 - ) begins by giving some family background as it relates to St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota. In doing so, she tells briefly the story of her Communist father in Minnesota and the interesting circumstances which lead to both sides of her family settling in the Twin Cities area. As an African American, she talks of racial integration as it occurred on the North Side of Minneapolis where she grew up, Jewish life, school on the North Side, reasons for moving from the North Side to Saint Louis Park, school experience in Saint Louis Park, and class issues within Jewish society. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Alan Stiegler gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan, World War II veteran and legal practitioner. He was born in 1925 and raised in Minneapolis. His family background in is Russia and he describes some of their stories that involve working in a sweatshop in St. Paul and homesteading in North Dakota. Stiegler describes how he was drafted at age 18 to fight in World War II, how he began specialized training but wound up in general infantry, having experienced some anti-Semitism. He describes how he fought through the Siegfired Line and the Battle of the Bulge, encountering new rocket propelled bombs developed by the Germans, and tells a story about how he was injured by a roadside bomb. In addition, he describes his life occupying Germany after the war and his subsequent career as a medical mal practice lawyer in great detail. He tells specific stories of anti-Semitism in Minnesota and North Dakota during his law career. He concludes with a description of his personal life after retirement and his family. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Samuel Stern (1952 - ) gives his personal background which included living in Highland Park, St. Paul, education at Carleton College, UCLA, and law school at Washington University in St. Louis. Stern's family settles in Saint Louis Park, and he discusses that community at length, including people, neighborhoods, synagogues and schools. Stern reflects on Hebrew School, Jewish Youth Organizations, Anti-Semitism, and socio-economic differences between neighborhoods. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Irving Stern (1928 - ) gives his perspective as mayor of Saint Louis Park and Minnesota state senator on local politics, commercial and residential development, and Jewish issues during his years in public service. The beginning of the interview consists of Stern's journey to politics and family background, including historical information related to the Jewish community of Saint Louis Park. Particular topics discussed were the Planning Commission, campaigning, anti-Semitism and Minnesota state politics. The interview concludes with a discussion of the Jewish migration from the North Side to Saint Louis Park, local synagogues, Saint Louis Park schools and the Iron Range. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Kokie Goldenberg standing at a podium and addressing attendants of a rally for the U. J. F. C.The United Jewish Fund and Council was founded in 1935 as the fundraising arm of the St. Paul Jewish community.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
A photograph of Julian Freeman standing behind a podium and giving a speech for United Jewish Appeal. The United Jewish Appeal was founded in 1934 to help provide financial and political relief to Jews in Europe. It unified fundraising efforts for European relief for an increasingly diverse American Jewish community. In 1947, U. J. A. shifted its focus from collecting funds for refugees to providing support for the proposed independent state of Israel.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Harold Specktor gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and World War II veteran. He was born in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1923. Specktor explains that he joined in the Army as infantry and received training to be a combat engineer. He describes his training and subsequent combat along the Siegfried Line in Europe, giving specific information about combat and casualties in his unit, along with a description of his life during the occupation of Germany. Specktor concludes with a description of his post-war life in St. Paul as a carpenter building homes in the Highland Park area of St. Paul. This interview was conducted by Fay Kaye as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Audio file of an interview with Esther Sirott and Ethel Levy conducted by Steve Foldes and Shirley Milgren. Esther Sirott was born in Lithuania and settled with her father and brothers on lower West Side of St. Paul. Ethel Levy was born in Iowa and lived briefly on the West Side of St Paul before moving with her family to a dairy farm where her father hired out as a tenant farmer. In the interview, the women discuss life on the West Side of St Paul, including employment opportunities for Jews, Jewish Socialists, keeping kosher, Jewish neighborhoods and social strata and the meaning of Yiddishkite. The interview is part of the United Jewish Fund and Council Oral History Project, Phase 1. The location of the interview is unknown: the interviewers are Steve Foldes (SF) and Shirley Milgram (SM).A PDF version of the transcript available at http://reflections.mndigital.org/cdm4/pdf-assets/jhs-sirott-levy.pdf
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Jerry Sinykin recounts how he witnessed the liberation of a Nazi concentration camp (Dachau) as a Jewish Minnesotan member of the American infantry. He was born in St. Paul, 1925, and gives his family background and connection to Russia and North Dakota homesteading. Sinykin discusses how father was a manufacturer of cosmetics in St. Paul, and goes on to describe his Jewish childhood, answering questions about anti-Semitic hazing in junior high. He explains an attempt to enlist in the Navy Air Corps and that he was denied but was later drafted into the Army, receiving infantry and engineering training. Sinykin remembers how he crossed the Atlantic on a boat with Winston Churchill who addresses the men onboard. He participated in the Battle of the Bulge and Siegfried Line in the rear supplying the front, and recalls many stories illustrating the anxiety of battle. Sinykin describes his participation in the liberation of Dachau and Mauthausen concentration camps, depicting the scene with several anecdotes, all the while affording special attention to his perspective as a Jew and a Minnesotan. This interview was conducted by Linda Schloff as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Rosalind Simon gives an account of her life as a Jewish Minnesotan and World War II veteran. Rosalind was born in Minneapolis and gives some details about her Jewish Minnesotan family. She explains that before World War II she was a social worker, and later married her husband that was a graduate of West Point. The married couple were stationed at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii when it was bombed by the Japanese. Simon gives a detailed account of the bombing, including life before and after. She goes on to describe their later life and career in Minnesota, telling stories about her husband who eventually made the rank of colonel, how he headed a national program called Service Corps for Retired Executives, and worked for the Army Air Defense Command. Simon gives some details about these programs, Army administration, associated women's organizations and the lives of army wives. This interview was conducted by Linda Schloff as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Morris Sherman gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and legal practitioner. He was born in Minneapolis in 1935 to immigrant parents from Romania, about which he gives further detail. Sherman recalls being raised on the North Side of Minneapolis and discusses his family's haberdashery, giving some description of the North Side at the time along with an account of his Jewish childhood there. He recalls his admittance into Harvard College and the circumstances surrounding Jewish admittance and his subsequent admission into Harvard Law School. Sherman then goes on to discuss the difficulties some Jews experienced in finding work in the legal profession. While attending the London School of Economics on a fellowship, he was drafted into the Army Reserve and returned to Minneapolis. The interview is concluded with a discussion of Jewish firms, the Jewish legal community in Minnesota, Jewish values in legal practice, and community involvement. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Walter Schwarz gives an account of his life as a Jewish World War II veteran. He was born in Romania, 1921. Schwarz gives family background in Europe, explaining that his father had ties to Czechoslovakia in the textile industry. He describes his childhood in Europe and teenage years at high school in Czechoslovakia, where Nazi violence and intimidation found him after Germany invaded the country. Schwarz and his family ultimately leave to the United States through Italy destined for New York. Wishing to fight Germany, he attempts to enlist and is later drafted. Schwarz discusses his training in the United States, which involved learning how to interrogate prisoners. He discusses his activity overseas was mainly in France and Germany at the end of the War. Schwarz was able to visit relatives who survived Auschwitz, and concludes with explaining his post war life and connection to Minnesota. This interview was conducted by Linda Schloff as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Earl Schwartz (1953 - ) discusses his family background from Europe to settlement on Minneapolis's North Side and their practice of Judaism in the United States, with particular respect to his own experience. The interview transitions to a focus on his career as a Talmud Torah teacher and college professor. The conversation moves to black-Jewish relations on the North Side and class issues illustrated with many anecdotes, particularly with respect to Jewish businesses on Plymouth Avenue. Crime, urban renewal and civil rights are discussed at length against the background of and local events and personalities in the late 1960s. The interview concludes with a discussion of the porous relationship between the suburbs and the North Side, neighborhood covenants in Golden Valley, the building of I-94, and the North Side today. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Erwin Oreck from Barkley Schroeder at Duluth Chamber of Commerce stating that Gitchi Gumee Lodge folder will not contain "restricted clientele" after the current season.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Children are getting into costume and make-up in this publicity photo for the Stay at Home Camp Circus at the Saint Paul Jewish Education Center in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Cantor was a popular entertainer who traveled periodically during World War II to promote sales of U. S. War Bonds. He is shown here with the Lebedoff triplets; David, Jonathan and Judy. Arrangements for Cantor's visit were made by Minneapolis Hadassah.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
The second page of a letter to Mildred A. Foster at Grand View Lodge from Samuel L. Scheiner which goes on to say that "refusal of service to persons of a certain religious faith so deinitely violates the American ideal." The book, To Hell with Hunting, by Ed Zern is mentioned.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Shirtsleeves Club and Minnesota Jewish Council from Samuel L. Scheiner, Executive Director, about the response received from a letter sent to Grand View Lodge relating to how they discriminate against people of Jewish faith and what to do next about it.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Sidney H. Sayles at the Milwaukee Jewsih Council from Samuel L. Scheiner at Minnesota Jewish Council informs that the King's Gateway Hotel needs attention.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Minnesota Jewish Council executive director, Samuel L. Scheiner from Brownie Cote at Grand View Lodge explanning how they do not simply discriminate against those of Jewish faith, but how they selectively discriminate.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Herman Roth at Jewish Federation and Community Council of Duluth from Sidney Sayles at the Milwaukee Jewish Council states what he will do about the matter of possible resort discrimination.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Erwin Oreck from S. Valentine Saxby at Minnesota Arrowhead Association letting Erwin know that they have not had any mentioned folders on their rack for some time.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter from M.J. Ruttger at Ruttger's Pine Beach Lodge to Rosemary Brown states that they will able to accommodate Miss Brown the week prior to September 7th. They note their clientele is restricted.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Manual (Mandy) Ruder (1914 - ) gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan. Special attention is afforded to his family background, including information about his Romanian and Zionist parents farming in Palestine, their settlement in North Dakota, and eventually settling with his mother in Minneapolis after the tragic death of his father. The focus moves to Ruder's childhood in a Romanian Orthodox community near downtown Minneapolis, roughly during the period of 1910 - 1920, to his education at the University of Minnesota in the 1930s, Navy career, career in American National Bank, and copious family details. This interview was conducted by Dr. Linda Mack Schloff, former director of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest, in effort to document the stories of Jewish immigration to and community leaders in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Ada Rubenstein (1917 - ) was born in St. Paul, Minnesota; became involved with Jewish organizations at an early age and later took on several leadership positions. In this interview, the women discuss Rubenstein's career in community service and the community's needs at the time, with detailed discussion about various organizations such as Hadassah, the Council of Jewish Women, Sholom Residence, and the United Jewish Fund. This interview was conducted by Dr. Linda Mack Schloff, former director of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest, in effort to document the stories of Jewish immigration to and community leaders in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
This letter from Herman Roth at Jewish Federation and Community Council of Duluth discribes that it is likely no action will be taken reguarding the "Refusal of King's Gateway Hotel, Land O'Lakes, Wisc. To accept reservations from George Berstein."
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Mr. Sidney Sayles at Milwaukee Jewish Coincil from Herman Roth at Duluth Jewish Council writes an update about an incident and states that no legal action will be pursued.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to George Bernstein from Herman Roth at Duluth Jewish Council states that Nat Polinsky was rejected a suite of rooms at King's Gateway Hotel in Land O'Lakes, Wisconsin because he was not a Gentile.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Harry Rosenthal (1897 - ), leader in the St. Paul, Minnesota Jewish community gives an account of his community involvement over a near sixty year period. Rosenthal recounts his early interest in Zionism and the beginnings of his involvement in Jewish communal affairs after World War I. He describes encounters with numerous internationally notable Zionists, pre -history of the United Jewish Fund, work with Hebrew schools, camps and numerous other Jewish organizations. The conversation moves to how Jewish traditions and values have changed over recent decades, transmission of values to younger generations, contemporary and historical Jewish life on a global scale, and the future of Judaism. This interview was conducted by Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest volunteer Morris Lapidos for the United Jewish Fund and Council Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
This interview investigates the life and activity of Harry Rosenthal (1897 - ), leader in the St. Paul, Minnesota Jewish community over a period of several decades. Rosenthal discusses his immigration story from Eastern Europe to New York City and then St. Paul, military activity in World War I, marriage to Rose Calmenson, his business and interest in Zionism. The focus of the interview moves to Young Judea and then the Jewish Education movement in the 1920s and 30s. Rosenthal discusses the establishment and improvement of Jewish schools in St. Paul along with some information about the history of other Jewish community establishments. He recounts his activity with the American Jewish Conference in New York City, the establishment of the state of Israel, and its impact upon the St. Paul Jewish Zionists. The interview concludes with Rosenthal describing the formation of the St. Paul Jewish Community Center and his second marriage. This interview was conducted by Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest volunteer Morris Lapidos for the United Jewish Fund and Council Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Paul Roitenberg (1931 - ) gives his personal and family background, including information about a family grocery business. He gives reasons for why he moved from the North Side, along with some of his family members. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Ellen Roitenberg (1938 - ) discusses her Jewish family and their background on the North Side of Minneapolis. She discusses how difficult it was to get jobs, even as a trained professional, if you were Jewish. She talks of her father being a physician and the impact of the founding of Mount Sinai Hospital in Minneapolis. The discussion turns to Jewish life on the North Side and subsequent migration to Saint Louis Park, class distinctions among Jews on the North Side, housing covenants and class distinctions in Saint Louis Park. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Sherman Richter gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and World War II veteran. He was born in 1924 to an Orthodox Jewish family in North Minneapolis. Richter discussed leaving North High early to enlist in the Marine Corps, being somewhat aware of the Jewish situation in Europe in the early 1940s. He was trained in California to operate a machine gun at the age of nineteen and gives some account of the culture there in regards to Judaism. Richter describes fighting in the South Pacific on various Islands such as Majuro. After World War II he returned to the North Side and operated at a bakery which later became the Lincoln Deli. Richter gives a description of this time and place from the Jewish perspective. He was drafted as a Marine to Korea and left his family for fierce fighting, mentioning the "Nightmare Alley' and other encounters with North Koreans and Chinese. Having been injured, Richter received several medals and memorabilia. This interview was conducted by Brian M. Krasnow as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
The first of a series of three letters concerning the denial of an insurance policy to a Jewish family in Perham, Minnesota. The letter was mailed to the insurance agent, who then submitted it to the Braufman family. (See local identifiers MHS-D-594 and MHS-D-595.)
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Rabbi Bernard Raskas (1924 - 2010), who led Temple of Aaron synagogue of St. Paul, Minnesota for 37 years, here gives a detailed account of his life and times as one of the most prominent leaders of the Twin Cities Jewish community. Highlights include meeting his wife and attending the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City, the establishment of the new and prominent Temple of Aaron, his relations with other influential rabbis and the Minnesota DFL party, teaching religion at Macalester College in St. Paul, and how his vision of Judaism was enacted by programs and policies. This interview was conducted by Dr. Linda Mack Schloff, former director of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest, in effort to document the stories of Jewish immigration to and community leaders in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Felix Phillips gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and legal practitioner. Felix was born in Minneapolis, and raised in both Minneapolis and St. Paul. Giving a brief family history, he explains that his grandparents were from Poland and father was well established in New York City. He describes a bit of his Jewish childhood and raises the issue of anti-Semitism on the south side of Minneapolis where he attended Washburn High School. The conversation moves to his experience at the University of Minnesota School of Law, his experience there, and how he was influenced to pursue a career in law. Phillips recalls how he later joined Maslon law firm, and the two discuss the difficulties of being a Jewish lawyer, how Jewish lawyers were perceived, and draw a distinction between Jews in the Minneapolis Athletic Club versus the St. Paul Athletic Club. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Judges and Lawyers Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Pearl Bankman Sakol (4th from top right) and her family gather around two tables for the Passover Seder. The view of the photograph is from slightly above.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Leonard Parker discusses in some detail how as an infantryman in World War II, he was among the few first Allied soldiers to arrive at the Dachau Concentration Camp in southern Germany. Parker gives an account of his life and relationship to Minnesota from a Jewish perspective. He was born in Poland, 1922 to Russian Orthodox, Zionist parents. Before this, Parker describes his early childhood memories as an Orthodox Jew in Milwaukee. He enlisted to serve in the military, and because of high casualties he was assigned to the Army in a specialized unit. Parker completed some training in civil engineering in Minnesota before departing for southern France, where he became a platoon leader, for eight months of combat at the end of the war. His platoon over time suffered greatly. Parker recalls life in foxholes, fighting along the Siegfried Line before liberating Dachau. After the war he returned to Minnesota to fulfill a promise to a fallen comrade and ended up staying to attend architecture school. Subsequently Parker did graduate work at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and designed buildings around the country and around the world. This interview was conducted by Linda Schloff as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Mel Orenstein gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and legal practitioner. He was born in 1926 on the North Side of Minneapolis and moved to the Selby-Dale neighborhood of St. Paul in 1938. He recalls that his father was from Russia and homesteaded in North Dakota. Orenstein gives additional family background, involving farming in northern Wisconsin as well as business in the Twin Cities. Orenstein explains that after Central High School he went into the Navy and then the University of Minnesota--which he quit in order to enter into family business --and then re-enrolled for law school. He discusses law school and practicing law from a Jewish perspective, answering questions about anti-Semitism. Orenstein discusses his involvement in a supreme court case regarding Marathon Oil, which is discussed at length. The conversation ends with a discussion of Jewish values in the practice of law and involvement in the local Jewish community. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Minnesota Jewish Council executive director, Samuel L. Scheiner from Erwin Oreck detailing Oreck's plan to send Gitchee Gumee Lodge, Ruttgers Pine Beach Lodge, Burntside Lodge, Arrowhead Lodge, and Maddom Lodge a letter, as well as sending it to Duluth Chamber of Commerce and the Minnesota Arrowhead Association.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Minnesota Arrowhead Association from Erwin Oreck about Madden Lodge on Gull Lake. Noting they have something such as, "clientele carefully selected" on the their resort folder on display.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Minnesota Arrowhead Association from Erwin Oreck about Ruttger's Pine Beach Lodge. Noting they have something such as, "clientele carefully selected" on the their resort folder on display.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Minnesota Arrowhead Association from Erwin Oreck about "Restricted clientele" noted on a brochure for Gitchi Gumee Lodge in Lutsen, Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Mr S. Valentine Saxby at Minnesota Arrowhead Association from Erwin Oreck informs Val that Gitchi Gumee Lodge will eliminate "restricted clientele" next year, as well as Erwin has enclosed self-explanatory letters.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Minnesota Arrowhead Association's president, M. H. Brickley from Erwin Oreck dated July 7 1947 about "clientele carefully restricted" notation on Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge folder on the Spalding Hotel's information bureau rack.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Minnesota Arrowhead Association from Erwin Oreck informing that Gitchi Gumee Lodge uses the phrase, restricted clientele, in their resort literature. A footnote states that the phrase will be removed next season.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Mr. Barkley Schroeder at Duluth Chamber of Commerce from Erwin Oreck thanks Barkley for the work he has done reguarding the removal of the phrase, restricted clientele, from the Gitchi Gumee Lodge folder.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Judge Allen Oleisky gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and legal practitioner. He was born in 1938 in Pierre, SD, to immigrant parents from Lithuania and Poland. Oleisky gives family background, describes their move to Minneapolis and gives an account of his childhood, which includes a description of the North Side. Oleisky describes work at a Jewish camp in Wisconsin and attending the University of Minnesota. He discusses the law school, working in law firms and activity in the Minnesota DFL party. His concludes his account of his life by describing how he was appointed Judge by Governor Anderson, which is also discussed from the Jewish perspective. The two conclude with a dialogue regarding the role of Jewish values in practicing law and community activism, mentioning the Jewish Historical Society and the National Jewish Fund. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Aaron Nathenson (1939 - ) gives an account of his life and some related history of Saint Louis Park, Minnesota. He discusses how he was born in 1939 in North Minneapolis and raised there before studying ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota. Nathenson reflects on growing up Jewish in North Minneapolis, provides information about the neighborhoods racial tensions and demographics, Jewish schooling, his parents moving to Saint Louis Park, Minnesota, residency and military service, and later his relocating to Saint Louis Park and practice of ophthalmology. The interview concludes on the topic of Saint Louis Park Public schools and his connection to the city today. This interview was conducted by Jeanie Anderson, a volunteer for the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Irving Nathanson gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan. He explains how he was born around the turn of the 20th century to Morris and Jenny Nathanson, who left Chicago for Eveleth, Minnesota to be merchants. Nathanson continues, telling the story of how the family moved to St. Paul in the 1920s so that Irving could go to the University of Minnesota. He and his father than successfully started and operated an importing business which survived the Depression. Life in the 1920s is discussed at length, including home life, cars, neighborhoods in St. Paul (Crocus Hill, Grand Avenue, and possibly Rondo), Jewish businesses, temple, and family. This interview was conducted by Andy Gellman as a part of the United Jewish Fund and Council Oral History Project focusing on the West Side Flats/Lower West Side Jewish community in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Founded in 1911, the Ladies Auxiliary raised money for a variety Talmud Torah related functions by sponsoring dances and food and rummage sales. An early outcome of providing women with a role in Jewish education was a fortification of both Jewish and American identity .
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Edith Milavitz gives an account of her early life as a Jewish Minnesotan. She was born in 1907 in St. Paul of Russian immigrant parents. Milavitz speaks about how her father was a junk peddler and how her mother and family sold chickens from the front yard of their St. Paul home on the West Side. The majority of this interview is devoted to Milavitz's life as a child and young adult. Special consideration is paid to her family and Jewish life, but other topics are covered as well, such as popular music and local politics. This interview was conducted by Judy Aronson as a part of the United Jewish Fund and Council Oral History Project focusing on the West Side Flats/Lower West Side Jewish community in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Ron Meshbesher, one of the most well known lawyers in Minnesota, here gives an account of his career with special attention afforded to his major cases, the Jewish law community in Minnesota and anti-Semitism in the law community in general. He was born in 1933 and raised in North Minneapolis. He gives his family background and a description of North Minneapolis at the time, including some talk about racism and the riots in the 1960s. Meshbesher tells stories about law school at the University of Minnesota and the Jewish students there, mentioning one of his classmates was Walter Mondale, and continues to explain how he became a personal injury/criminal defense lawyer, along with issues associated such as Jewish values and representing African Americans. The cases discussed are the Congdon murder and Piper kidnapping. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Keith Meland (1938 - ) grew up in Saint Louis Park and was a long time city council member. In this interview, the history of the development of Saint Louis Park, city policies and goals regarding development and expansion of residential and commercial districts, Jewish immigration into the city during the 1960s and 70s, and relations between Jewish and non-Jewish are discussed. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Erwin Oreck from Frank Mebane, Jr. at Kilkare Lodge and Cottages explains from Oreck's recent letter that without a date it is hard to decide if the lodge is able to take care of him.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Jim McNulty (1948 - ) gives an account of personal history along with his family business's role in residential and commercial development in Saint Louis Park, Hopkins and Golden Valley. He describes the history of McNulty Construction Company, which included the development of Westwood Hills Golf Course, Virginia Circle and the Westwood Hills area. McNulty discusses the residential and commercial design, construction and development that his company was doing after World War II to accommodate the returning G.I.'s and those immigrating from Minneapolis. In addition, McNulty describes the relationship of the company to the city council. This discussion concludes with McNulty's thoughts in general about Saint Louis Park, in addition to his observations regarding socio-economic differences among the neighborhoods. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
This tri-fold pamphlet highlights Wisconsin law 340.75, Denial of Rights. It includes the rights you have inside your own home, and what the law does not do.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Hadassah members met in small and large groups to socialize and to raise money for Israel. The pushke, or canister, in the picture, could be found in many, if not most Jewish homes in the 1950s and 1960s. The blue and white canisters with the outline of Israel were used to collect money for land purchases and reforestation efforts, and were a direct reminder of the bond between Israel and the American Jews.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Sam Malinsky gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and World War II veteran. He was born in 1920 in Minneapolis to an Orthodox Jewish family who attended Mikro Kodesh synagogue. Malinsky went to Hebrew High School and describes poor Jewish life during the 1930s. He talks about what he knew about what was going on in Europe at the time and how he was drafted. Malinsky describes basic training and a boat ride to Barry, Scotland, where his company took enemy fire, and landing at Utah Beach on D-Day under heavy enemy fire. On the way to Belgium he describes infantry life in the woods and how he was shot by a sniper in Paris. After the war, Malinsky became an insurance agent and talks of his support for the state of Israel. This interview was conducted by Brian M. Krasnow as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Malcoff's Confectionery was a popular gathering place on the North Side for teens; University of Minnesota students; and people from the North Side neighborhood. It was one of four delicatessens in the Plymouth Avenue business area, in addition to Abe's, The Polar Grill, and H & S.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Rosemary Brown from Winifred Lowell at Glenmar Lodge on Woman Lake regretting they cannot accommodate her for the dates she wishes. "Our clientele is definitely restricted" is noted.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Sidney Lorber (1916 - ) discusses the life and work of his friend and associate, Minneapolis lawyer and community leader Amos Deinard (graduate, University School of Law and Harvard Law School, 1920s). Mr. Deinard gained notoriety by taking leadership positions in a number of local and state organizations that spanned causes from anti -discrimination, Jewish immigrant welfare, Jewish-Christian relations and health concerns. This interview was conducted by Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest volunteer Chester Prochan in effort to document the stories of Jewish immigration to and community leaders in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Roberta Levy gives an account of her life as a Jewish Minnesotan and legal practitioner. She was born in 1937 in Philadelphia to Russian immigrant parents who were persecuted abroad. Recalling her early life, she describes how her father had a store in Philadelphia and was a committed Socialist/Zionist. She gives a description of her childhood as a Jew in North Philadelphia, and mentions attending Gratz College and Temple University. Levy explains how her husband taught law school and took a job teaching at the University of Minnesota School of Law, causing her some anxiety due to rumors of Anti-Semitism in Minneapolis. She recalls enrolling in law school while her husband was on the faculty, how was the only woman, and describes the difficulty of finding a firm because she was both Jewish and female. Levy continues by describing her later career in a Jewish law firm and public defender, and how she was nearly appointed to the state supreme court by Rudy Perpich. Levy concludes her life story with how she became a district court judge functioning in that capacity between 1978 and 2002, including many stories from the period. The conversation closes with a discussion about the relationship between Judaism and the study of law. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Robert Levine (1951 - ) discusses moving to Saint Louis Park, Minnesota in the early 1950s and Jewish life there. The focus of the interview is on class and affluence in Saint Louis Park and the Jewish presence therein, but also touches upon Levine's parents and their role as owners of a supermarket chain, various local country clubs, Jewish teenage social groups and Saint Louis Park public schools. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Lerman Family history; Lerman's work in the US Post Office and the railroads; getting into law school at the University of Minnesota and his many years of legal practice as a labor lawyer. Lerman was also involved with the St. Paul Workman's Circle, and discusses labor-related activities in the St. Paul Jewish community, including Labor-Zionism. A PDF version of the transcript available at http://reflections.mndigital.org/cdm4/pdf-assets/jhs-lerman.pdf
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Audio file of an interview with Lena Senensky conducted by Lois Devitt. The interview includes: family history in Russia and immigration to the United States; daily life on St Paul's Lower West Side; creation and early years of the Jewish Home for the Aged.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Leibman's account of his journey to the United states and experiences entering the country, traveling by train to St Paul to join his brother, his first home on the Lower West Side and a detailed description of the neighborhood. A PDF version of the transcript available at http://reflections.mndigital.org/cdm4/pdf-assets/jhs-leibman.pdf
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Maurice Lazarus (1947 - ) discusses his family background on the North Side of Minneapolis, his education, experience teaching, law school, family life and settlement in Mendota Heights. The discussion turns to his grandfather Zalmen Brochin and Brochin's, a notable store/delicatessen on the North Side. He then turns to race riots and the Jewish exodus to the western suburbs during the 1960s. Lazarus discusses the reasons for the exodus and provides examples. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Part of a double -sided brochure for the resort Burntside Lodge in Ely, Minnesota. Included are photographs of Burntside Lake, a general map and marked, Restricted Clientele.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Larry Katz gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and lawyer. He describes how he grew up in the predominately Jewish Selby-Dale area of St. Paul, MN, having been born in 1933. Katz recalls that his father was a Jewish Orthodox grocer who had settled on the West Side, giving a with a description of the neighborhood at the end of the Depression. He went to Webster and St. Alban's elementary schools, followed by Central High School and finally the University of Minnesota for law. Katz describes his experience in law school, the difficulty of finding a firm, issues in law practice and ethics in law all from a Jewish perspective. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Sheldon Kaplan gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan, legal practitioner and veteran of World War II. In his account of his life, Kaplan describes the circumstances of his birth on the North Side of Minneapolis to Lithuanian parents who were in wholesale produce, attending Lincoln Junior High, the University of Minnesota, Columbia Law in New York, practicing civil law in New York, joining the Military Police and helping refugees escape from Europe, working as a lawyer on wartime termination contracts, and finally working as a lawyer with Kaplan, Edelman and Kaplan, specializing in tax law, trusts, estates, and civil law, representing such clients as the Minnesota Vikings. He sees Jewish and non-Jewish lawyers integrating more and more. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Elliot Kaplan gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and legal practitioner. He gives a narrative of his life, which includes the circumstances of his birth to grocers on the East Side of St. Paul, growing up in Highland Park, attending Randolph Heights and Central High School, being president of Hillel while attending the University of Minnesota for seven years, and enlisting in the Army Reserve. The conversation moves to Jewish law firms in the 1960s, to working with numerous Jewish and non-Jewish organizations such as the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the University of Minnesota Fund. The interview concludes with changes in the legal community since the 1960s, particularly for Jewish lawyers, and implementing Jewish values and ethics into Kaplan's legal and personal life. This interview was conducted by Helen Rubenstein as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest Jewish Judges and Lawyers History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
This letter to "All Resort Operators" from Verne E. Joslin at the Minnesota State Tourist Bureau informs operators about Chapter 579, Laws 1943 in which it is a "gross misdemeanor to discriminate on account of race, color, national origin or religion."
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Samuel L. Scheiner at the Minnesota Jewish Council from Verne E. Joslin, the director of Divisions of Publicity at the State Capitol explains he does not think there is a law violation, and that he is happy to give him a set of addressed envelopes to send a brochure entitled "Sportsmanship"
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
A folding brochure for Johnson's Cedar Lake Camp in Quibell Ontario, Canada. Inside is a road map. The back gives details for hunting and fishing. It notes ""Gentiles Only"" on the front.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Marvin Jacobson gives an account of his life as a Jewish Minnesotan and World War II veteran. He was born in Duluth, 1926, and recalls that he was raised in St. Paul by Zionist parents. Jacobson tells the story of how he graduated at age sixteen and entered military employment as a civilian. He continues to explain that at age seventeen, he enlists in the Navy, and after training around the United States, was stationed in Hawaii after Pearl Harbor occurred. He describes his life in Hawaii inspecting and repairing equipment and moves on to post-war life in St. Paul as an electrical engineer, having been educated at the University of Minnesota. This interview was conducted by Laura Savin as a part of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest World War II Veterans Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Letter to Rosemary Brown from Ray Hoefler at The Wilderness Outfitters, Inc., states that they will send information about Basswood Lodge and have accommodations for September. "Our clientele is selected" is noted.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Text for memorial services, including prayers in English and Hebrew for fathers, mothers, and grandfathers and the Mourner's Kaddish in English and Hebrew with the Hebrew transliterated.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Marion Herman (1912 - ), native Russian and immigrant to St. Paul, Minnesota, begins this interview with a description of St. Paul Jewish neighborhoods and synagogues during the Depression years. The focus turns to Herman's involvement in various community organizations and fundraising initiatives, with discussion relating to the Capitol Fund Drive, Parent Teacher Association, Talmud Torah schools, area Hebrew schools and synagogues. This interview was conducted by Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest volunteer Harriet Kohen for the United Jewish Fund and Council Oral History Project.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
In this interview, Avis Held (1948 - ) gives a short account of her experience growing up Jewish on the North Side of Minneapolis and subsequent move to Saint Louis Park, with particular attention devoted to the differences between school experience in the respective locales. Furthermore, the interview focuses on class differences among Jewish families in Saint Louis Park, social cliques in Saint Louis Park schools, and reasons for moving from the North Side to Saint Louis Park. This interview was conducted by Jeff Norman, oral historian from California. "Urban Exodus: The Saint Louis Park Oral History Project" explores the post-World War II migration of Minneapolis's Jewish community from the city's North Side to the western suburb of Saint Louis Park. The 35 oral history interviews, representing diverse perspectives from within and beyond the Jewish community, tell the complex story of how, from 1945 to 1970, Saint Louis Park became a major center of Jewish life in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives
Businessman Amos Heilicher (1907 - ) grew up poor and Jewish in St. Paul, Minnesota, during the Depression. As a teenager he started a coin-operated machine company that later blossomed into several successful businesses, including a national retail record chain, real estate, banking, restaurants and more. This interview focuses on the history of Heilicher's business ventures during the Depression and post-WWII years, with special attention afforded to the retail record industry. This interview was conducted by Dr. Linda Mack Schloff, former director of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest, in effort to document the stories of Jewish immigration to and community leaders in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Libraries, Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives