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322 records – page 1 of 17.

Baron de Hirsch Institute/Jewish Family Services

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn77771
Collection
Ometz Collection
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Fonds No.
1074; 1
Date
c.1842-2008
Scope and Content
This series contains records pertaining to or originating from Baron de Hirsch Institute/Jewish Family Services.
Collection
Ometz Collection
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Scope and Content
This series contains records pertaining to or originating from Baron de Hirsch Institute/Jewish Family Services.
Date
c.1842-2008
Fonds No.
1074
Series No.
1
History / Biographical
In 1863 the Young Men’s Hebrew Benevolent Society (YMHBS) was formed by young unmarried men with the desire to help Jews in need. The Society also allowed the young Jewish men of Montreal to get to know each other better and to look after their social welfare needs. By 1882, the Society could not cope financially with the influx of immigrants arriving from Russia, most of who were destitute and had no means of support. The YMHBS appealed to philanthropist Baron Maurice de Hirsh. In 1890, Baron de Hirsch sent his first donation and in 1891, the Baron de Hirsch Institute opened and was dedicated to the purpose of “A Free School for the poor children of the Jewish faith and a home for sheltering distressed immigrants and orphans.” In 1900 Baron de Hirsch enlarged its sphere, and in recognition of the financial support received, obtained a new charter of incorporation to change its name to Baron de Hirsch Institute and Hebrew Benevolent Society of Montreal. The Institute was the pioneer charitable and philanthropic organization in Montreal. In 1917, because of the overlapping of much charitable and philanthropic work, the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies was formed with headquarters in the Baron de Hirsch Institute building. Baron de Hirsch became one of the constituent societies and continued its activities with the religious school, library, cemetery, family welfare, legal aid and Hebrew Court of Arbitration. The Federation of Jewish Philanthropies changed names three times. It became Federation of Jewish Community Services in 1951, Allied Jewish Community Services (AJCS) in 1965 and today’s Federation CJA in 1997. AJCS was under the direction of Manny Batshaw from 1967-1980). In 1974 the Jewish Family Services Social Service Centre (JFSSSC) was created and incorporated almost all the programs and human resources of the Baron de Hirsch Institute. Jewish Family Services encompassed these two organizations by providing joint structure for their complementing mandates. The JFSSSC was a publicly funded agency, working alongside the private JFS of the Baron de Hirsch Institute and primarily served the Jewish population. The JFSSSC became responsible for youth protection, young offenders, adoption and foster care (including group homes and placements for children, disabled adults and the elderly). Over the years, JFS adapted to transformations in Quebec society and developments in the field of social work. As mental health, sex education, addiction, care of the elderly and other concerns were recognized as part of the mandate of a social service provider, JFS developed programs to respond to these needs. JFS’s professional work also included the supervision of many volunteer units (for example, Big Brothers, Big Sisters and hospital volunteers). The public JFSSSC closed in 1993 in response to the Quebec government’s Bill 120 and the cessation of public funding. As a result, Jewish Family Services of the Baron de Hirsch Institute became a full-service, community-based organization.
Language
English
French
Hebrew
Yiddish
Subjects
Baron de Hirsh Institute, Montreal.
Jewish Family Services, Montreal.
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Ometz Collection

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn77770
Collection
Ometz Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
2.9 linear metres textual records
Fonds No.
1074
Date
1842-1998
Scope and Content
Currently, the Ometz Collection is made up of records from the Baron de Hirsch Institute/Jewish Family Services, Jewish Immigrant Aid Services, and Jewish Vocation Services. Records include correspondence, minutes and memoranda, annual reports, publications, and documentation of history. Three ma…
Collection
Ometz Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
2.9 linear metres textual records
Scope and Content
Currently, the Ometz Collection is made up of records from the Baron de Hirsch Institute/Jewish Family Services, Jewish Immigrant Aid Services, and Jewish Vocation Services. Records include correspondence, minutes and memoranda, annual reports, publications, and documentation of history. Three major series exist under each of the historical branches of Ometz: JVS/JEM, JIAS, and JFS. Under each series, further subseries organize specific records to each former agency.
Date
1842-1998
Fonds No.
1074
History / Biographical
Ometz, the Hebrew word for courage, was chosen in 2008 as the new name for the merged services of the former Jewish Family Services (JFS), Jewish Employment Montreal (JEM), and Jewish Immigrant Aid Services (JIAS). Ometz reflects the wish for those who seek the support of Ometz's services, that they find the courage to move forward with life's challenges. Ometz offers a continuum of services for the entire family. Employees include clinical social workers, employment, school and immigration consellors, mental health professionals, occupations and speech therapists, and psychologists. Hundreds of volunters also make up the work of the agency. The history of Ometz stretches over 150 years when including the foundation of the Young Men's Hebrew Benevolent Society. JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES OF THE BARON DE HIRSCH INSTITUTE In 1863, the Young Men's Hebrew Benevolent Society (YMHBS) was formed by young unmarried men with the desire to help Jews in need. The Society also allowed the young Jewish men of Montreal to get to know each other better and care for their social welfare needs. By 1882, the Society could not cope financially with the influx of immigrants arriving from Russia, most who were destitute and had no other means of support. The YMHBS appealed to Baron Maurice de Hirsch and in 1891, the new Baron de Hirsch Institute opened and was dedicated to the purpose of a "Free School for the poor children of the Jewish faith and a home for sheltering distressed immigrants and orphans. In 1900, the Baron de Hirsch enlarged its sphere and, in recognition of their namesake's generous support, obtained a new charter of incorporation under the name Baron de Hirsch Institute and Hebrew Benevolent Society of Montreal. In 1917, because of the overlapping of charitable and philanthropic work in the community, the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies (today's Federation CJA) was founded and began operation out of the Baron de Hirsch Institute building. The Baron de Hirsch Insitute in turn became one of the agencies of the new organization; continuing its activities with the religious school, a library, cemetery management, family welfare, legal aid and the Hebrew Court of Arbitration. In 1974, Jewish Family Services Social Service Centre (JFSSSC) was created and incorporated almost all of the programes and human resources of the Baron de Hirsch Institute. Jewish Family Services encompassed these two organizations by providing joint structure for their complementing mandates. The JFSSSC was a publicly funded agency working alongside JFS, mainly responsible for youth protection, young offenders, adoption and foster care. JFSSSC closed in 1993 due to the cessation of public funding. As a result, JFS of the Baron de Hirsch Institute became a full-service, community-based organization. JEWISH IMMIGRANT AID SERVICES In 1919, the Canadian Jewish Congress was organized and in anticipation of renewed Jewish immigration after the war, established Jewish Immigrant Aid Society (JIAS). JIAS' mandate was to lobby the government on behalf of potential Jewish immigration. It acted on a national scale to facilitate the legal entry of Jews to Canada and then to help them adapt and integrate into their new home. After the war, immigration greatly increased and JIAS had to respond to new needs. Thousands of Jews were received, settled and rehabilitated, many from Displaced Persons camps. A social service committee was formed in 1947 and professional social workers were hired for the first time. Joseph Kage joined JIAS as a social worker in 1947 and remained at JIAS until his retirement in 1983. Under his leadership, JIAS' name changed from "Society" to "Services. Under his role of National Executive Director and national Executive Vice-President, Kage became an authority on issues of Canadian immigration policy and was chair of the Canadian Governmental Advisory Board on Immigrant Adjustment. JEWISH VOCATIONAL SERVICES (JVS) / JEWISH EMPLOYMENT MONTREAL (JEM) JVS was created in 1945, immediately after the Second World War. Initially the mandate of JVS was to offer Holocaust survivors housing and jobs. JVS also offered employment support for returning war veterans, orphans, and displaced European Jews entering Canada. The 1950s saw a focus on young people looking for first-time employment or changing careers. JVS also began to offer career counselling during this period. In 1950, a sheltered workshop for people with physical or mental health issues was created and helped many Jewish emigres who were unable to find meaningful jobs. This became was is currently the JEM Workshop. JVS continued to adapt their services based on changing immigration demographics, economic realities, and social climates. After a structural change in 2003, JVS became Jewish Employment Montreal (JEM) and continues to offer programming with this name under Ometz. In 2008, Jewish Employment Montreal, Jewish Family Services of the Baron de Hirsch Institute, and Jewish Immigrant Aid Services merged to become Ometz.
Language
English
French
Acquisition Source
Collection was created from multiple sources, including materials pulled from the Jewish Canadiana Collection of the Jewish Public Library and the offices of the former agencies themselves.
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Allan Raymond Collection

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn31559
Collection
Allan Raymond Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
16 linear metres of multiple media
Fonds No.
1034
Scope and Content
Consists of numerous series and sub-series from individuals, families, organizations and businesses from within the Jewish community of Montreal. Includes various forms of records such as correspondence, photographs, artefacts and ledgers.
Collection
Allan Raymond Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
16 linear metres of multiple media
Scope and Content
Consists of numerous series and sub-series from individuals, families, organizations and businesses from within the Jewish community of Montreal. Includes various forms of records such as correspondence, photographs, artefacts and ledgers.
Fonds No.
1034
Storage Location
JPL
History / Biographical
Allan Raymond (1922- ) was born in Lithuania and came to Montreal in 1928. He is a researcher and lecturer of Canadian Jewish history and an avid collector of Canadian Judaica. Raymond also considered himself a romantic poet. He had a successful career as an insurance broker in Montreal and during World War II served overseas with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Amongst his varied community activities he served as public relations director of the Westmount Historical Association, Montreal Jewish Historical Society, St. James Literary Society, One Parent Families Association, Parents Without Partners Association, the YMHA Chaverim Group, Avant Garde Singles Group and S-Group. Mr. Raymond conducted research for the Montreal Gazette's "Great Montreal Walks" as well as for the television documentary "Six Decades." Many of his historical documents and photographs were exhibited at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Universite de Montreal, Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom, Shaar Hashomayim Congregation and the Jewish Public Library. He has delivered a series of illustrated lectures dealing with Canadian Judaica at the former Saidye Bronfman Centre among other institutions. This collection was accumulated by Allan Raymond over a period of thirty-five years. Most of the collection held at the Jewish Public Library was donated in 1993 and again in 1999. Mr. Raymond continues in his collecting as well as donations of material to the Jewish Public Library Archives to this day.
Language
English
Yiddish
French
Hebrew
Custodial History
Received by the Jewish Public Library by Allan Raymond in 1993 and 1999.
Arrangement
Each series arranged individual to the specific family, person, institution, business or organization. Also includes materials arranged based on format such as "artefacts."
Access Restrictions
Some restrictions may apply due to Privacy legislation.
Reproduction Restrictions
Some restrictions may apply due to Copyright legislation.
Finding Aid
Original finding aid available in JPL-A.
Subjects
Abramowitz, Herman
Abramowitz, Tess (nee Bokar)
Montreal (Quebec) - Buildings, structures, etc.
Montreal (Quebec) - Street scenes
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Images
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Louis Rubenstein Collection

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn38825
Collection
Louis Rubenstein Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Fonds No.
1168
Date
1859-2002
Scope and Content
Consists of one large scrapbook of Rubenstein's achievements in figure skating as well as several folders of material dealing with the establishment of the Louis Rubenstein Memorial on Parc Avenue in Montreal, Quebec.
Collection
Louis Rubenstein Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Scope and Content
Consists of one large scrapbook of Rubenstein's achievements in figure skating as well as several folders of material dealing with the establishment of the Louis Rubenstein Memorial on Parc Avenue in Montreal, Quebec.
Date
1859-2002
Fonds No.
1168
Storage Location
JPL
History / Biographical
Louis Rubenstein (1861-1931) is one of Canada's most legendary sports figures. In 1890, he became the first World FancySkating Champion, at a competition held in Russia, and a Canadian sports hero. However, Mr. Rubenstein aptitude for sports extended far beyond skating. He was a venerable proponent of cycling, curling, bowling, and swimming. His love of sports led him to establish the International Skating Union of America and the Amateur Skating Association of Canada. He also organized other fields of amateur sports. He became a civic leader and philanthropist, devoting his energy to underprivileged youth.
Language
English
French
Russian
Norwegian
Subjects
Rubenstein, Louis, 1861-1931
Skating
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom Fonds

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn30952
Collection
Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
7.8m multiple media
Fonds No.
1044
Date
1882-1978
Scope and Content
This fonds consists of records of both Temple Beth Sholom and Temple Emanu-El. Records vary from birth, marriage and burial registers, minutes, bulletins, correspondence and various legal documents.
Collection
Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
7.8m multiple media
Scope and Content
This fonds consists of records of both Temple Beth Sholom and Temple Emanu-El. Records vary from birth, marriage and burial registers, minutes, bulletins, correspondence and various legal documents.
Date
1882-1978
Fonds No.
1044
History / Biographical
Temple Emanu-El was founded as the first Reform synagogue in Montreal in 1882 although it was not until 1892 when the first Temple sanctuary was erected on Cyprus Street, corner of Stanley Street. Temple Emanu-El re-located in 1911 to a new building on the corner of Shebrooke Street and Elm Street in Westmount. In 1957, tragedy struck the congregation when a fire destroyed the building erected in 1911. A new sanctuary was completed at the same location in 1959. In 1980, Temple Emanu-El and Temple Beth Sholom, a sister congregation founded in 1953, merged together to create Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom.
Language
English
Subjects
Temple Beth Sholom - Montreal (Quebec)
Temple Emanu-El -- Montreal (Quebec)
Synagogues - Montreal
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Temple Emanu-El Series

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn30954
Collection
Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom Fonds
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
4.5m multiple media
Fonds No.
1044; 2
Date
1882-1978
Scope and Content
This series consists of records from Temple Emanu-El prior to its merger with Temple Beth Sholom. Records consist of registers, minutes, correspondence, financial information and bulletins.
Collection
Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom Fonds
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
4.5m multiple media
Scope and Content
This series consists of records from Temple Emanu-El prior to its merger with Temple Beth Sholom. Records consist of registers, minutes, correspondence, financial information and bulletins.
Date
1882-1978
Fonds No.
1044
Series No.
2
Language
English
Subjects
Temple Beth Sholom - Montreal (Quebec)
Temple Emanu-El -- Montreal (Quebec)
Synagogues - Montreal
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Mannie Lecker Fonds

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn16743
Collection
Mannie Lecker Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
.4m of mixed material
Fonds No.
1043
Date
1885-2005 (predominant 1942-1945)
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of wartime memorabilia and propaganda collected by Mr. Lecker during his service in Europe in World War II.
Collection
Mannie Lecker Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
.4m of mixed material
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of wartime memorabilia and propaganda collected by Mr. Lecker during his service in Europe in World War II.
Date
1885-2005 (predominant 1942-1945)
Fonds No.
1043
Storage Location
JPL
Creator
Mannie Lecker
History / Biographical
Mr. Lecker was born and raised in Montreal. He enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces during World War II and served as ground maintenance crew in the Air Force. Mr. Lecker was present during D-Day invasion, June 06, 1944 and marched across Europe, specifically through France, Holland and Germany. During his time in Europe, Mr. Lecker collected and saved wartime propaganda and memorabilia. Upon discharge from the Forces Mr. Lecker returned to Montreal but travelled often across Canada as a travelling salesman. Mr. Lecker passed away in Montreal in December 2007.
Custodial History
Initial donation was made in 1978 by Mr. Lecker to Paul Trepman, then director of the JPL. In 2005, Mr. Lecker was reconnected to the Library and Archives and made two further donations in 2005 and 2006. The last donation of Mr. Lecker's service medals was made in 2008 after his death.
Name Access
Lecker, Mannie, d.December 2007
Subjects
Veterans, Jewish - Canada
World War, 1939-1945 - Veterans
World War, 1939-1945 - Personal narratives
Medals
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Rev. Dr. Herman Abramowitz

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn31777
Collection
Allan Raymond Collection
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
144cm of multiple media
Fonds No.
1034; 1
Date
1890-1978
Scope and Content
Series consists of correspondence, sermons and speeches, financial and legal documents, diary of an overseas trip in 1913, correspondence, school report cards and certificates pertaining to his children, postcards, calendar diaries, 1908-1934; manuscript thesis; reference pamphlets and photographs.
Collection
Allan Raymond Collection
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
144cm of multiple media
Scope and Content
Series consists of correspondence, sermons and speeches, financial and legal documents, diary of an overseas trip in 1913, correspondence, school report cards and certificates pertaining to his children, postcards, calendar diaries, 1908-1934; manuscript thesis; reference pamphlets and photographs.
Date
1890-1978
Fonds No.
1034
Series No.
1
Storage Location
Bay 9
History / Biographical
Rabbi Herman Abramowitz was born in Russia in 1880, and came to America in 1890. He was educated at the public schools, the College of the City of New York (from which he graduated in 1900 with a Bachelor of Arts) and at the Jewish Theological Seminary. From 1900 to 1903, he took a post-graduate course in philosophy at Columbia University. In 1907 he received the degree of Doctor of Hebrew Literature from the Seminary, being the first graduate to receive this honour. In 1903, he accepted a call from the Shaar Hashomayim Congregation, Montreal. Dr. Abramowitz developed the congregational Sunday School, and Hebrew Day School; the Women's Auxiliary; the Young Peoples' Society and other activities. He was active in all communal enterprises ofa philanthropic and educational character and in 1910 personally raised from subscriptions the entire cost of the building of the Mount Sinai Sanatorium for tubercular patients. He was also in charge of the organization which raised annual subscriptions for the maintenance of the Sanatorium. His part in the Plamondon case was as a key witness in this infamous anti-Semitic libel case in Quebec City in 1913. In 1909, Dr. Abramowitz visited the Jewish agricultural colonies in the western provinces of Canada to establish religious schools and other institutions. He was invited to become a member of the Canadian Committee and in 1913 was sent to Paris to confer with the Jewish Colonization Association heads. He also represented Canada at the Congress held later that year in Vienna. Shortly after the outbreak of the World War I, Dr. Abramowitz was appointed Jewish Chaplain in the Canadian Army with the rank of Captain. He was also active on the speakers' team in all the Victory Loan campaigns and relief drives held during the war. He was Vice-President of the United Synagogue of America; Director, Federation of Jewish Philanthropies of Montreal; Director, Montreal United Talmud Torahs; and a life Governor of the Montreal General Hospital. Dr. Abramowitz married in 1911 to Theresa Bokar and had one son, David Lester and one daughter, Judith.
Subjects
Abramowitz, Herman.
Abramowitz, Judith
Abramowitz, David Lester
Abramowitz, Tess (nee Bokar)
Shaar Hashomayim Congregation -- Montreal (Quebec).
Rabbis -- Canada.
World War, 1914-1918
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

United Talmud Torahs Fonds

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn17109
Collection
United Talmud Torahs Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Fonds No.
1047
Date
1896 - current
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of administrative records on the running and organization of the school, student activities, teachers, activities, special occasions and parent involvement. The fonds is divided into eleven series. Series I: Board of Directors Series II: History Series III: Fundraising Series IV: Bu…
Collection
United Talmud Torahs Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of administrative records on the running and organization of the school, student activities, teachers, activities, special occasions and parent involvement. The fonds is divided into eleven series. Series I: Board of Directors Series II: History Series III: Fundraising Series IV: Budget and Finance Series V: Teaching Staff Series VI: Parents Series VII: Students Series VIII: Programs Series IX: Publications Series X: Audio-Visual Series XI: Correspondence
Date
1896 - current
Fonds No.
1047
Storage Location
JPL
History / Biographical
The United Talmud Torahs were founded in 1896. Rabbi A.M. Ashinsky established the first Talmud Torah class on 130 Cadieux St. In 1903 the Talmud Torah was housed in its own building at 140 St. Urbain street, when it came under the directorship of Rabbi Hirsch Cohen. In 1912 the school admitted girls and was incorporated under the name of "The Hebrew Free School of Montreal". In 1917 the language of instruction changed from Yiddish to Hebrew. Several Hewbrew schools, which were spread over the city of Montreal were amalgamated in 1917 as The United Talmud Torahs. In 1930 the building on St. Joseph Blvd. was erected and in 1935 The United Talmud Torahs became a day school. Since 1970 The French language is a significant language of instruction. At present the United Talmud Torahs consist of elementary school and Herzliah High Schools with branched in Snowdon and St. Laurent.
Custodial History
All records transferred directly from the United Talmud Torahs of Montreal.
Subjects
United Talmud Torahs (Montreal)
United Talmud Torahs (Montreal) - Bialik Hebrew School
United Talmud Torahs (Montreal) - Chomedy
United Talmud Torahs (Montreal) - Herzliah High School
United Talmud Torahs (Montreal) - Cote St-Luc
Religious education
Education, Elementary
Education, Preschool
Education, Secondary
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
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Yavna B'nai Parnass/Parnass Family Collection

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn51019
Collection
Yavna B'nai Parnass/Parnass Family Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
1.2 linear metres of multiple media + 58 photographs
Fonds No.
1293
Date
1898-2010
Scope and Content
Consists of ephemeral and some documentary material related to both the Yavna B'nai Synagogue (such as correspondence related to the sale of the building) as well as artefacts originating from the Synagogue (parochet/curtains, electric menorah, kesser/sefer torah crowns). Also includes photographs…
Collection
Yavna B'nai Parnass/Parnass Family Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
1.2 linear metres of multiple media + 58 photographs
Scope and Content
Consists of ephemeral and some documentary material related to both the Yavna B'nai Synagogue (such as correspondence related to the sale of the building) as well as artefacts originating from the Synagogue (parochet/curtains, electric menorah, kesser/sefer torah crowns). Also includes photographs of the synagogue and the Parnass family.
Date
1898-2010
Fonds No.
1293
Storage Location
JPL
Bay 9
History / Biographical
Raizel and Pinchas Parnass lived in Russian town of Kagul in Bessarabia with their six children, Sara, Abraham, Boris, Harry, Mottel and Joseph. In 1903, the entire family emigrated to Montreal where Pinchas opened a successful clothing store on St. James Street. Beyond settling in their new home and raising their family, Raizel and Pinchas dedicated themselves to community building, most especially in religious observance and education. In 1910, Pinchas founded the Kerem Israel shull at 4335 St. Dominique, corner Marie-Anne. The second floor of the Kerem Israel was used as a free school for children. In 1926, on the occasion of their 25th wedding anniversary, Pinchas bought Raizel a two-storey brick building belonging to the Seventh Day Adventist Church at 4690 Hutchinson Street. The sale of the church was dependent on the new owners observing Saturday as Sabbath. For Raizel the building was fulfillment of a childhood desire to build a synagogue in the "New World". As a child, Raizel witnessed the destruction during a pogrom of a synagogue built by her father. Raizel also designated the second-floor space of the building for a Hebrew free school. The new Orthodox synagogue was given the name 'Yavna B'nai' by Rabbi Herschorn but quickly became known as the Parnass Shul throughout the community. The Parnass family indeed provided the necessary elements to the tiny synagogue: Harry, who was skilled in carpentry, built the bimah (a table used for unrolling the Torah); Raizel and daughter Sara (Berman) made and embroidered the parochet (curtain that covers the Torah Ark) and Sara also donated the Megillah Scroll for the shul. The Torah scrolls were donated by the Lubavitch Yeshiva. Joseph Parnass, Raizel and Pinchas' youngest son, assumed management of the Synagogue and it was he that established the rule that no donations would ever be accepted by Yavna. Instead, the Synagogue was sustained by the Parnass family. In this way, the family ensured that the Synagogue remained free for anyone who wished to worship there. Joseph Parnass was also one of the founding members of the Canadian Jewish Congress in 1919 and he later sat on the board of the Rabbinical College of Canada. Boris Parnass, the second-eldest son, assumed caretaker responsibilities for the building and after his death, his sons Victor and Myer, continued in their father's dedication. The Yavna B'nai Parnass Synagogue was the first synagogue in Outremont and during its height was filled to capacity and provided three minyins each day. The Synagogue was also used for appeals for other organizations, specifically the Lubavitch Yeshiva and the Jewish Old People's Home, now Maimonides Hospital. A plaque hangs in Maimonides Hospital, donated by Joseph Parnass, dedicated to the founding of Yavna B'nai Synagogue by Raizel and Pinchas Parnass. In 1991, the Yavna B'nai Synagogue was closed and sold. Proceeds from the sale went to the Jewish Hospital of Hope for that institution's Synagogue, now known as the Yavna B'nai Parnass.
Language
English
Hebrew
Custodial History
Donated by Helen Parnass Constantine on behalf of the Parnass family.
Accession No.
12-018
Subjects
Synagogues - Canada.
Synagogues - Montreal (Quebec)
Parnass, Pinchas
Parnass, Raizel
Parnass, Joseph
Yavna B'nai Synagogue
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
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Dreyfus Collection

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn75976
Collection
Dreyfus Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
Textual material ; 144 postcards ; 66 photographs ; 17 prints
Fonds No.
1318
Date
1989-1914 [predominant 1903-1908]
Scope and Content
The Dreyfus Collection contains material related to the Dreyfus Affair, specifically the publicity and commentary surrounding the trial. It consists of a collection of editorial cartoons, newpaper clippings, broadsides, photographs and drawings. The content represents both positions in support and …
Collection
Dreyfus Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
Textual material ; 144 postcards ; 66 photographs ; 17 prints
Scope and Content
The Dreyfus Collection contains material related to the Dreyfus Affair, specifically the publicity and commentary surrounding the trial. It consists of a collection of editorial cartoons, newpaper clippings, broadsides, photographs and drawings. The content represents both positions in support and against Alfred Dreyfus, some of which are explicitly anti-semitic. The collection of postcards contains political cartoons and caricatures that were circulating at the time. Similarly, some of the posters represent the trial in a political manner. Newspaper clippings from the period are also included within the collection.
Date
1989-1914 [predominant 1903-1908]
Fonds No.
1318
Storage Location
JPL
History / Biographical
The trials of Captain Alfred Dreyfus took place in the last decade of the 19th century and first decade of the 20th century. Dreyfus, an officer of the French general staff, was falsely accused of passing state secrets to the German military, tried and twice convicted (1895,1899) of treason before finally being exonerated in 1906. The effects of the decade-long controversy were felt both within France and abroad for decades after the case proper was settled. The media that surrounded the trial and its aftermath created a flurry of public commentary on the topic and is an aspect that is well reflected within this collection. Postcards in particular were a new and inexpensive format that propelled the scale of popular opinion expressed through their mass-circulation and often time provocative, anti-semitic imagery. Dreyfus counted among his defenders such illustrious figures as the future French prime minister Georges Clemenceau, the celebrated novelist Emile Zola, and the social thinker Bernard Lazare. Theodore Herzl, serving as Paris correspondent for the Viennese newspaper Die Welt, was disturbed enough by the anti-semitic implications of the Dreyfus Affair to turn his thoughts and energies to political Zionism, the movement which he founded.
Language
French
English
Yiddish
Custodial History
Provenance for this collection remains unknown.
Notes
A portion of material was removed from the collection's two albums. For each of these items a note has been created that indicates its initial page number and position in which it was originally placed.
Subjects
Dreyfus Affair (1984-1906)
Dreyfus, Alfred, 1859-1935
Zola, Emile, 1840-1902
France
France - Jews
Antisemitism
Media
Cartoon
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Images
Less detail

Robert Adams Collection

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn50190
Collection
Robert Adams Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
0.37m of multiple media
Fonds No.
1306
Date
[between 1900 and 1990] predominently 1987-1988
Scope and Content
The Collection contains, correspondence, research notes, photographs, negatives, museum catalogues, magazines, manuscripts and news clippings related to life and work of Alexander Bercovitch as well as the research and publication of "The Life and Work of Alexander Bercovitch - Artist" by Robert Ad…
Collection
Robert Adams Collection
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
0.37m of multiple media
Scope and Content
The Collection contains, correspondence, research notes, photographs, negatives, museum catalogues, magazines, manuscripts and news clippings related to life and work of Alexander Bercovitch as well as the research and publication of "The Life and Work of Alexander Bercovitch - Artist" by Robert Adams. The material predominently focuses on the years 1987-1988, during which Adams was researching, writing and publishing his book.
Date
[between 1900 and 1990] predominently 1987-1988
Fonds No.
1306
Storage Location
7-1A
History / Biographical
Robert Adams was born in South Wales in 1937. He first studied at the London School of Economics, after which he moved to Montreal to continue his education and teaching career at Concordia University. In 1972 he received a position at College Bois-du-Boulogne where he taught for eight more years. It was during these years he wrote his first book, “The Life and Work of Alexander Bercovitch – Artist.” In the same year of its publication, 1988, the noted biography was short listed for the Quebec Society for the Promotion of English-Language Literature (QSPELL) award in non-fiction. Robert Adams would later go on to be a recognized book reviewer, speaking regularly on CBC Radio’s “Talking Books” and TV Ontario’s “Big Ideas” on Book TV. He was also been a frequent guest-speaker at many literary functions, including those held by the Jewish Public Library in Montreal. Known as the father of modern Jewish painting in Montreal, Alexander Bercovitch was a Russian Jewish painter born in 1891 in the port city of Kherson in the Ukraine. He spent his formative years travelling across Europe honing his artistic skills and establishing himself as a painter. It wasn’t until 1926 that Bercovitch and his family came to Montreal. After a difficult first year in Montreal Bercovitch left his family and would continue to have a turbulent relationship with his wife and children. Throughout the remaining twenty-four years of his life Bercovitch would join the "Eastern Group of Painters,” work with John Lyman to establish the Canadian Arts Society of Jewish Artists and the Eastern Group as well as teach a generation of Jewish artists, including Moe Reinblatt, Ghitta Caiserman-Roth, Rita Briansky and Esther Wertheimer. On January 7, 1951 Alexander Bercovitch died from a massive heart-attack, which struck him only four hours before his retrospective was to open at the YM-YWHA.
Language
English
French
Yiddish
Arrangement
Original order was maintained. Duplicates were removed from both the textual and photographic material.
Notes
Includes correspondence to and from Alexander Bercovitch.
Subjects
Painters
Montreal (Quebec)
Bercovitch, Abram William, 1882-1962.
Bercovitch, Alexander
Artists
Adams, Robert
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Lea Roback Fonds

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn31359
Collection
Lea Roback Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
4.8m of textual records. -- 1013 photographs.
Fonds No.
1243
Date
1901-1998 ; predominant 1930-1998
Scope and Content
The Fonds contains material reflecting Lea Roback's activity in politics, union organization and activism in addition to personal records that document her relationship with family. Records from her political and activist work include radio addresses, correspondence, fliers, reports, and periodical…
Collection
Lea Roback Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
4.8m of textual records. -- 1013 photographs.
Scope and Content
The Fonds contains material reflecting Lea Roback's activity in politics, union organization and activism in addition to personal records that document her relationship with family. Records from her political and activist work include radio addresses, correspondence, fliers, reports, and periodicals. Personal records include correspondence wit her family members, the narrative of the Roback family written in prose, and various pieces of memorabilia belonging to Roback. The majority of the photographs in the collection are of Lea and her family from their time in Montreal, Beauport (QC) as well as Lea's travels in Europe. The series included within the Lea Roback Fonds are the following:
Series 1 -- Professional activity
Series 2 -- Biographical and personal material
Series 3 -- Correspondence
Series 4 -- Bibliographic reference publications
Series 5 -- Videos
Series 6 -- Photographs
Series 7 -- Graphic material
Date
1901-1998 ; predominant 1930-1998
Fonds No.
1243
Storage Location
JPL
History / Biographical
Activist and organizer, Lea Roback was born on November 3rd, 1903 in Montreal. She was the second of nine children of Fanny (1885-1973) and Moses (1870-1935) Roback, both of whom immigrated from Poland. She spent her childhood in Beauport, Quebec where her parents ran a general store. The Robacks spoke Yiddish at home; outside it was French or English. Léa was able to switch freely between languages, a skill that became useful in work with labour organizations. When Léa was fourteen the family returned to Montreal where, two years later, she began working in the city's factories. It was at this point that she became accutely aware of the inequality between Montreal's affluent English-speaking families and the mostly French and Jewish working class. In the mid-1920s, Léa spent a two years at the University of Grenoble in France, supporting herself by privately teaching English to students. In 1928, Léa joined her older brother Harry in Berlin where he was studying medicine. She enrolled at the University of Berlin studying Sociology and German. Léa became involved with leftwing student groups and eventually joined the Communist Party. In 1932 Lea returned to Montreal, finding work as a youth group director at the Young Women’s Hebrew Association, where her mentor was Saidye Bronfman, wife of Sam Bronfman. In 1935 she managed the Modern Bookshop on Bleury Street, the first Marxist bookstore in Quebec, which became a gathering place for local radicals. That same year Lea coordinated Fred Rose's bid for election. Eight years following this campaign, Rose became the first communist elected to the House of Commons. In 1936 she was recruited by Thérèse Casgrain, legendary women’s suffrage leader, to assist in her work to obtain the vote for women in Quebec. Léa also became involved with the International Ladies Garment Workers’ Union (ILGWU) during their attempts to improve conditions in the garment industry. In 1937, Léa was a leader – along with organizers such as Rose Pesotta and Bernard Shane – in organizing over 5,000 women who walked off the job from the garment industry factories of Montreal. During the war years, Lea began working for the Radio Corporation of America (R.C.A.) and became an organizer for the United Electrical Workers, where she was a business agent for the 3,000 R.C.A. workers in Montreal. Lea was an active advocate for social justice and human rights for the majority of her life. She was affliated with numerous organizations in Montreal including the Québec Aid to the Partially Sighted, the Voice of Women, as well as anti-nuclear and anti-war groups. Lea was a continual presence within the ranks passing out leaflets, demonstrationing, providing support and lending her respected voice to so many causes.
Language
English
French
Yiddish
Spanish
Acquisition Source
Lea Roback
Custodial History
This material was donated to the Jewish Public Library Archives by Lea Roback in 1998. The material of the Fonds was in the possession of Ms. Roback until the date of the transfer.
Arrangement
The arrangement of the Lea Roback fonds maintained the order in which it was donated to the archives with the exception of Series 3. In the correspondence series, letters were grouped by sender and when without date or an identifiable author, were grouped together. In 2015, as a result of entering unprocessed material into the database, the intellectual arrangement of this fonds was also updated. To consult the original finding aid please contact the JPL-A directly.
Notes
In addition to textual and photographic material, the Lea Roback Fonds contains sound recordings (10 audio cassettes) and graphic material (2 prints, 7 posters)
Access Restrictions
Some privacy restrictions apply to material within the Léa Roback Fonds. Please contact the JPL-A directly for further information.
Reproduction Restrictions
Some Copyright restrictions may apply
Finding Aid
Detailed finding aid available; file level control.
Accession No.
09-002
Name Access
Roback, Lea, 1903-2000
Subjects
Roback, Lea, 1903-2000
Labour movement
Labour unions
Women Workers
Women in the labour movement - Canada
Working Class
Feminism
Social justice
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Images
Less detail

Steinberg/Rafman Families Fonds

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn16734
Collection
Steinberg/Rafman Family Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
5.0cm textual records ; 28 photographs
Fonds No.
1066
Date
1906-1990
Scope and Content
The Fonds consists of correspondence with Lily Rafman (nee Steinberg), her wedding notes, her journal pages, a number of legal documents, some newspaper clippings and stock certificates about Steinberg’s, and family photographs. There are three series present within the Fonds. Series I cover…
Collection
Steinberg/Rafman Family Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
5.0cm textual records ; 28 photographs
Scope and Content
The Fonds consists of correspondence with Lily Rafman (nee Steinberg), her wedding notes, her journal pages, a number of legal documents, some newspaper clippings and stock certificates about Steinberg’s, and family photographs. There are three series present within the Fonds. Series I covers Lily Rafman’s personal papers. It includes correspondence. Series II is in regards to Steinberg’s store. Series III contains photographs of both the Rafman and the Steinberg families.
Date
1906-1990
Fonds No.
1066
Storage Location
Bay 6
6-4C
History / Biographical
Hyman Rafman The son of Max Rafman and Sarah Rabinovich, Hyman Rafman was born on November 20, 1906. On June 4, 1939, he married Lily Steinberg. He passed away on January 31, 1974. Lily Rafman (nee Steinberg) The daughter of Vilmos Sternberg (later known as William Steinberg) and Ida Roth, Lily Steinberg was born in 1909. As a child, she helped her mother run the family business (Steinberg’s Stores). In 1931, after her brother Sam had taken over the family business, she and her mother started up a small shop on Monkland Street in Montreal, where she worked and lived until her marriage in 1939. She and Hyman Rafman had four children, Sandra, Nancy, Marlene and Mark. Steinberg’s Ida Roth was born in 1884. In 1902, she married William Steinberg (an arranged marriage). They had six children: Jack (1903), Sam (1905), Nathan (1908), Lily (1909), Max (1912), and Morris (1914). On her own, Ida herself started a small grocery store in 1917 in order to provide for her family. It was on St. Lawrence Boulevard in Montreal, and was quite successful. All family members helped out around the store, but young Sam Steinberg quickly emerged as a retail prodigy. He began opening new stores around Montreal. In 1930, he incorporated the company, calling it “Steinberg’s Service Stores Ltd.” The first self-service outlet was opened in 1933, and a “Wholesale Grocereria” (offering limited service but drastically-discounted prices) opened its doors in 1934. There was a great expansion in the 1950s, where Steinberg’s opened up many outlets all over the province, not just in Montreal.
Custodial History
Donated by Sharon Steinberg (daughter of Jack Steinberg and Gertrude Dover) and Nancy Rafman (daughter of Hyman Rafman and Lily Steinberg).
Notes
All photographs entered in the JPL Photograph Database.
Subjects
Steinberg family
Steinberg Foods, Ltd.
Steinberg, Sam, 1905-1978
Washmor Frocks Co. (Montreal, Quebec)
Steinberg, Ida, 1884-1946
Steinberg, Jack, 1903-
Steinberg, Max, 1912-
Steinberg, Nathan, 1908
Rafman family
Rafman, Lily (nee Steinberg)
Textile industry
Trout Lake (Laurentians, Quebec)
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Zwirek/Lubstug Family Fonds

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn18145
Collection
Zwirek/Lubstug Family Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
1 photograph; 1 textual document
Fonds No.
1245; 001
Scope and Content
Consists of one photograph of Queen Elizabeth and King George on their visit to Montreal in 1939 as well as a booklet of the "Constitution of the Russian Polish Hebrew Sick Benefit Ass'n of Montreal."
Collection
Zwirek/Lubstug Family Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
1 photograph; 1 textual document
Scope and Content
Consists of one photograph of Queen Elizabeth and King George on their visit to Montreal in 1939 as well as a booklet of the "Constitution of the Russian Polish Hebrew Sick Benefit Ass'n of Montreal."
Fonds No.
1245
File No.
001
Storage Location
SC3; 7-3C
Notes
Further accurals expected; STORED IN SMALL COLLECTIONS (SC3) Photograph placed TBP in Photograph Collection
Subjects
Elizabeth, Queen, consort of George VI, King of Great Britain, 1900-2002
George VI, King of Great Britain, 1895-1952
Russian Polish Hebrew Sick Benefit Association (Montreal, Quebec)
Sick Benefit Associations
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Machzikei Hadas Congregation fonds.

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn16725
Collection
Machzikei Hadas Congregation fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
textual records, graphic material, objects
Fonds No.
C0010
Date
1908-2016
Scope and Content
BOX 1 - Various A folded poster donated by Estelle Gunner in 2009 showing several photographs of Machzikei Hadas on Murray Street on one side and model of new synagogue in Alta Vista. Produced for purpose of advertising telephone campaign for pledges to pay for new building. Rabbi Bulka's photo an…
Collection
Machzikei Hadas Congregation fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
textual records, graphic material, objects
Scope and Content
BOX 1 - Various A folded poster donated by Estelle Gunner in 2009 showing several photographs of Machzikei Hadas on Murray Street on one side and model of new synagogue in Alta Vista. Produced for purpose of advertising telephone campaign for pledges to pay for new building. Rabbi Bulka's photo and message included (see 5-080-03); A copy of an interview with Mr. Laibel Steinberg on the early history of the congregation - Date Unknown; Sisterhood of Machzikei Hadas Senior Girls of the Junior Congregation formal tea invitation. Hostesses - Debbie Applebaum, Enid Appotive, Ilsa Dubrovsky, Barbara Greenberg, Minchie Goldberg, Adele Goldstein, Zena Koffman, Norma Kufsky, Shelly Segal, Eleanor Schwartz, Eleanor Steinberg - 1963 Notices of Formal Meetings, 1958-1974 (with gaps); A list of past presidents; The original mortgage agreement for M. H. Clarence St., 1908; Bylaws of Machzikei Hadas Congregation, 1919; Constitution and Bylaws, 1959; Declaration of trust (two originals - one signed, one unsigned), 1930; Mortgage documents, 1916; Correspondence - Legal, Corporation Statements, 1928-1936, 1946, 1960; Member Lists, 1949, 1970, 1971, 1972 (includes a list of leaders for various committees within the congregation and a letter that was sent to new congregants - 1971-1972); Three certificates of Pew Ownership - H. Steinman, 1933; Max Drazin, 1931; H. PLeet, 1931; Application cards for membership - One completed, many blanks, 1950's; An agreement of Seat Purchase for H. Steinman, 1927; A list of Officers of the Corporation of Spanish and Portuguese Jews and their bylaws, 1949; Contract with Cantor Reverend Nathan Borenstein, 1957; Burning the mortgage banquet, 1947; Hebrew Publishing Compnay calendar, 1936; Financial Reports, 1955, 1960; Copy of Ben Karp Yiddish Bar Mitzva speech, 1930; A file of material donated by Oscar Petegorsky in the Fall of 2002 - A receipt for Oscar Petegorsky for the sum of $25.00 for the purchace of a burial plot for Mr. Slack - 1934, An account statement from A. J. Freiman Limited showing a $100.00 fee for the decoration of his department store building on Rideau St. to decorate it for the King's visit - 1939, An invoice to Mr. Steinberg detailing expenses to be paid - 1939, A pamphlet announcing the final shabbat (shabbos) service at Machzikei Hadas on Murray Street; A Machzikei Hadas Bulletin, 1967; A small file of newspaper clippings; Murray Street blank stationary; Cornerstone contents; a list of names on paper in the cornerstone. It came in a tin box which was stolen during a break-in. A Minutes Ledger and its translations, 1946-1960?; A plaque regarding the Machzikei Hadas murals; Artifiact, ironstone plate with a decal of 264 Murray Street synagogue, dated September 24, 1973. Signed by Saul Saslove, President, Rabbi Reuven P. Bulka. Donated by Mrs Ben Karp, 2004 located in small records centre box; An Alta Vista location Bingo advertisement matchbook; Machzikei Hadas constitution, 1975; A Jewish National Fund certificate from the Machzikei Hadas Sisterhood stating that two trees have been planted in honour of Minnie Drazin for being "Woman of the Year," 1967; A file on the Coat of Arms for Machzikei Hadas, 1994; A book written by Rabbi Reuven P. Bulka called, "An Unforgettable Hour: Congregation Machzikei Hadas receives a coat of arms,"1997; Machzikei Hadas Calendars; BOX 2 - Various A "History" file - Machzikei Hadas but also many other handwritten notes from former Archivist Shirley Berman on a variety of subjects. There is an interview from 1950 from Jacob Freedman. He talks of coming to the city, meeting John Dover, Jacob Cohen, Moses Bilsky, Issacher Dov Berman and others. He talks about the Shohets of Ottawa and matters of Kashruth and the early competing Minyanim. Three pages on the history of the Machzikei Hadas congregation and synagogue. Sylvia Kershman's notes and Remembrances, 2001; Promotional brochure for the Alta Vista synagogue location, date nknown; Dedication - Script and Direction by Sol Max "Memory Lane," June, 1974; Rosh Hashanah, 1973; Max Nadolny dinner, 1976; Program for the Sefer Torah Presentation, 1979; Burn the mortgage campaign, 1981; 25th Anniversary, 1999; Rabbi Reuven P. Bulka - Invitations and programs, 1982-1993; Correspondence from Jack Haberman, 1977; Machzikei Hadas Sisterhood - Passover preparations, list of Officers, list of activities, 1971, 1982-1990; Machzikei Hadas Sisterhood - Invitations, 1981-1989; Machzikei Hadas Sisterhood - Strawberry Tea Machzikei Hadas Sisterhood - Sale of Israel Bonds, 1966-1987; Machzikei Hadas Sisterhood - Minutes, 1949-160 (file states that contents are on loan from Bessie Applebaum); Machziei Hadas Sisterhood - Administrative Documents and notes, 1987; Machzikei Hadas - Debut Theater, contains many advertisements for local businesses, date unknown; Newsletters and Announcements, 1982-2006; Fundraising for Capital Campaign, $2,000,000.00, possibly 2006; Shabbat-iton, 1990, 1991, 1997, 2002; Announcements, various dates begining 1981; Shuleinu - Machzikei Hadas Bulletin, 1975-1984; Shuleinu - Machzikei Hadas Bulletin, 1985-1990; Shuleinu - Machzikei Hadas Bulletin, 1997-2001; Shuleinu - Machzikei Hadas Bulletin, 2002-2008; Shuleinu - Machzikei Hadas Bulletin, 2008-2013; Shuleinu - Machzikei Hadas Bulletin, 2013- General Information from the Machzikei Hadas website, December 22, 2009; The Future of the Congregation, 2009, 2011; Members Information, 2009-2005;
Date
1908-2016
Fonds No.
C0010
Storage Location
1 box in OS
History / Biographical
Machzikei Hadas Congregation began as a small group of people who worshipped in a home on St. Patrick Street owned by Mr. and Mrs. Goldberg. They met every Shabbat, winter and summer, paying 25 cents per week for dues. Then one High Holiday, they rented a hall at the corner of Dalhousie and St. Patrick Street for one month covering Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and charged $1.00. In 1908, approximately 15 to 20 families bought the building at 264 Murray Street, the former site of Adath Jeshrun Congregation and repurposed soda water factory of Michael Fine, and returned it to its original religious function. 264 Murray Street became the first permanent Machzikei Hadas synagogue. Laibel and Max Steinberg and Kseil and Abraham Applebaum worked on 264 Murray to transform it into a synagogue again. An $1800.00 mortgage, taken out on May 12, 1908, uses the formal name of the congregation. Signatures include Henry Levine - tailor, Nathan Wolfe - tailor, Benjamin Nathan (son) - peddler, Max Friedman - shoemaker, Max (Mendel) Lachowitz - peddler and Abraham Applebaum - carpenter. The Congregation was incorporated on July 15, 1919 as Machezike Hadath Congregation (a spelling which was later modified). In 1923, the congregation purchased two homes owned by Oscar Petigorsky at the corner of King Edward and Murray Streets. The synagogue at 259 Murray Street opened in 1929. It was during Abraham Doren's presidency from 1935-1938 that the decorative murals were installed along the women's gallery. Reverend Baker served as cantor from 1910 until his death in 1945. He was followed by Reverend Nathan Borenstein and Reverend Harry Weissbord. Rabbi Reuven P. Bulka arrived in 1967 and continued in that post into the 21st century. Machzikei Hadas relocated in 1973 to a newly designed synagogue on Virginia Drive in Alta Vista. In its new location it extends services to 500 families including youth, seniors, educational and public awareness programs. On December 27, 1973, by Letters Patent, the name was changed to Congregation Machzikei Hadas. In 1994 Machzikei Hadas congregation became the first synagogue in the history of the Commonwealth to be granted a coat of arms. Presidents of Machzikei Hadas: 1925-1932 - Max Drazin 1932-1934 - Abraham Dworkin 1934-1935 - Oscar Petigorsky 1935-1938 - Abraham Goren 1938-1939 - Oscar Petigorsky 1939-1941 - Edward Weiner 1941-1942 - Zalman Silver 1942-1943 - Mendel Steinberg 1943-1953 - Saul Saslove 1953-1955 - Edward Weiner 1956-1957 - Mendel Steinberg 1957-1962 - Saul Saslove 1962-1964 - David Appotive 1964- Max Greenberg 1964-1970 - Rudy Appotive 1970-1973 - Saul Saslove 1973-1975 - Jack Pleet 1975-1977 - Laurence Sugerman 1977-1981 - Harry Rosenberg 1981-1983 - Morris Melamed 1983-1985 - Murray Citron 1985-1987 - Kenneth Miller 1987-1989 - Akiva Kriger 1989-1991 - Stephen Appotive 1991-1993 - Howard Goldberg 1993-1995 - David Kardish 1995-1997 - Louis Honigman 1997-1999 - Hymie Reichstein 2000-2002 - Joel Taller 2003-2006 - David Freeman 2007-2008 - Eric Wilner 2008-2010 - Andrew Fainer 2010-2012 - Harry Prizant 2012- present - Jonah Rabinovitch
Notes
1. Early history quotation taken from Sol Max. Retrospect and Prospect presentation at Machzikei Hadas Dedication, Sunday, June 16, 1974. 2. A documentary by the National Film Board called Bar Mitzvah was filmed at 264 Murray Street, probably the late 1950s, and is available from Adele Sidney. 3. Incorporation date from Rabbi Lifschutz letter, January 17, 1951; 4. A decorative and inscribed silver tray given to L. Gunner in recognition of being a life member of the Machzikei Hadas Congregation. Inscription states, "Congregation Machzikei / Adas / Life Member / Mr L. Gunner." and a black marble pen holder given in recognition to L. Gunner. Inscription reads incorrectly as "L. Gonner". It states, "Chevra Mishnyas / Machzikei Adas / Feb. 21st - 1960 / Sec. L. Gonner". Donated in July, 2011 by his son, Sol Gunner, located in artifacts section of vault. 10. Information pertaining to date of murals obtained from Abraham Goren's daughter, Mrs. Sally Taller in November, 2011. She remembers that he liked colour and was very proud of this accomplishment during his presidency.
Related Material
Rabbi Reuven P. Bulka fonds, MG 31, F 14, is available with the National Archives of Canada See Individual file for Laibel Steinberg's history of early congregation. See Committee to Save the Murals subseries.
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Branches

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn16773
Collection
Workmen's Circle of Montreal Fonds
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
1.2m textual records
II
Date
1908-1989
Scope and Content
Series consists of the organization documents (minutes, correspondence, notices, membership information) specific to the individual branches of the Workmen's Circle of Montreal. Consists of containers 005-014 and 017.
Collection
Workmen's Circle of Montreal Fonds
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
1.2m textual records
Scope and Content
Series consists of the organization documents (minutes, correspondence, notices, membership information) specific to the individual branches of the Workmen's Circle of Montreal. Consists of containers 005-014 and 017.
Date
1908-1989
Series No.
II
Storage Location
Bay 6
Name Access
Workmen's Circle, Montreal
Subjects
Workmen's Circle - Eugene Debs Branch no. 204
Workmen's Circle - Ladies' Vladeck Branch
Workmen's Circle - Meyer London Branch no. 151
Workmen's Circle - Moishe Lewis Branch
Workmen's Circle - Vladeck Branch
Workmen's Circle, Montreal
Workmen's Circle - Albert Einstein Branch No. 1090
Workmen's Circle - Arthur Zigelbaum Branch No. 264
Workmen's Circle - Erlich-Alter Branch No. 272
Workmen's Circle - Morris Zigman Branch
Workmen's Circle - Russian Branch
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

History and Organizational Papers

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn16774
Collection
Workmen's Circle of Montreal Fonds
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
.2m textual records
III
Scope and Content
Consists of topical documents relating to history and the original founding documents of the Workmen's Circle in Montreal. Consists of containers 015 and 016.
Collection
Workmen's Circle of Montreal Fonds
Description Level
Series
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
.2m textual records
Scope and Content
Consists of topical documents relating to history and the original founding documents of the Workmen's Circle in Montreal. Consists of containers 015 and 016.
Series No.
III
Storage Location
Bay 6
Creator
Workmen's Circle of Montreal
Subjects
Workmen's Circle, Montreal
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Less detail

Workmen's Circle of Montreal Fonds

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn18200
Collection
Workmen's Circle of Montreal Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
4 m of textual records and other material
Date
1908-current
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of 10 series containing the operating records of the Workmen's Circle, its committees, branches, choir and school program. Series I – Committees Series II – Branches Series III – His tory and Organizational Papers Series IV – Publications Series V – Abra…
Collection
Workmen's Circle of Montreal Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
4 m of textual records and other material
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of 10 series containing the operating records of the Workmen's Circle, its committees, branches, choir and school program. Series I – Committees Series II – Branches Series III – His tory and Organizational Papers Series IV – Publications Series V – Abraham Reisen Schools Series VI – Workmen’s Circle Loan Syndicate Series VII – Workmen’s Circle Choir Series VIII – Workmen’s Circle, New York Series IX – Correspondence Series X – Scrapbooks and Artefacts
Date
1908-current
Storage Location
Bay 6
Creator
Workmen's Circle
Physical Condition
Excellent.
History / Biographical
The Workmen’s Circle (Arbeter Ring) of Montreal (now Worker’s Circle) celebrated its 100th Anniversary in the city in 2007. The organization, which was originally founded in New York in 1892 by mainly Russian Jewish immigrants fleeing Czarist pogroms, conducted itself as an “irretrievable part of the radical labour movement.” An advocate for change, the Workmen’s Circle also provided education, enlightenment, health benefits, open forums, a library, clubs and cemetery plots for its members. The work of the group extended to emergencies such as operating a soup kitchen during the Depression or organizing the Action Committee for Soviet Jewry in the late-1980s and early 1990s to aid immigration. Their involvement in politics saw support for the Cooperative Commonwealth Federation and candidates such as A.M. Klein, David Lewis and Kalman Kaplansky. In 1940, two Workmen’s Circle members from Branch 151 were elected to the Montreal municipal council, Michael Rubenstein and Albert Eaton. The first Workmen’s Circle building was completed in 1936 after several years of planning and a hold due to the Depression. The building was located at 4848 St. Laurent and served the Workmen’s Circle’s business and social activities as well as one of the schools. Like most other Jewish organizations, the Workmen’s Circle moved from the once-traditionally Jewish Main area and re-located to Isabella closer to the Jewish community campus. The Worker’s Circle is still housed there although the organization is shrinking and serves an aging population.
Language
Yiddish, English, Russian
Acquisition Source
Workmen's Circle of Montreal
Custodial History
Transferred directly from the Workmen's Circle, first date of transfer unknown, accural of new materials in November 2007.
Arrangement
Current arrangement based on an older system of description used by the JPL-A during the 1970s and 1980s. The finding aid was up-dated to RAD standards in March 2008.
Related Material
Jewish Labour Committee Fonds
Name Access
Workmen's Circle, Montreal
Subjects
Workmen's Circle Schools (Montreal, Quebec)
Labour and labouring classes
Workmen's Circle - Eugene Debs Branch no. 204
Workmen's Circle - Meyer London Branch no. 151
Workmen's Circle - Moishe Lewis Branch
Workmen's Circle, New York
Workmen's Circle - Vladeck Branch
Workmen's Loan Syndicate (Montreal)
Labour movement
Labour unions
Women in the labour movement - Canada
Workmen's Circle - Ladies' Vladeck Branch
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
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Rita Briansky Fonds

https://www.cjhn.ca/link/cjhn67779
Collection
Rita Briansky Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
1.0m of textual documents ; 54 sketchbooks ; 1623 photographs ; 3 audio cassettes
Fonds No.
1291
Date
1910 - 2011 [predominant 1950 to 2000]
Scope and Content
The fonds contains documentation, professional and working materials of Rita Briansky’s many projects and works. The fonds consists of textual records, including correspondence, selections of the artist’s writing; graphic material, including sketchbooks and photographic documentation of…
Collection
Rita Briansky Fonds
Description Level
Fonds
Material Type
multiple media
Physical Description
1.0m of textual documents ; 54 sketchbooks ; 1623 photographs ; 3 audio cassettes
Scope and Content
The fonds contains documentation, professional and working materials of Rita Briansky’s many projects and works. The fonds consists of textual records, including correspondence, selections of the artist’s writing; graphic material, including sketchbooks and photographic documentation of her work; audio recordings of Rita Briansky’s interviews and reviews; newspaper clippings, bibliographic reference publications and articles citing the artist’s work.
Date
1910 - 2011 [predominant 1950 to 2000]
Fonds No.
1291
Storage Location
JPL
Creator
Rita Briansky
History / Biographical
Rita Briansky, painter, printmaker-etcher and teacher, was born in 1925 in Grajewo, Poland. Together with her mother and two sisters, Bella and Becky, the family moved to Ansonville, Ontario in 1929. Here, they joined Briansky’s father and uncle, Jake Perlmutter, and his family in Ansonville, which at the time had a small Jewish community. In 1939, the family moved to Val d’Or, Quebec and finally to Montreal in 1941. Then in her mid-teens, Rita Briansky was a keen student who nourished a continued interest in art. With the move to Montreal, the Briansky Family struggled financially and was unable to afford the fee for Rita’s high school education. It was the Yiddish poet Ida Massey who found Rita a job so she would be able to pay for her schooling. This encouragement served as the beginning of a valuable friendship, as well as helping foster Briansky’s artistic career. Massey later introduced Rita to Alexander Berkowitz who at the time was giving art classes at the St. Urbain Street ‘Y’. Her training and experience quickly expanded, taking the young artist through Montreal’s Ecole des Beaux-Arts and New York’s Arts Student League. In 1949, Rita married fellow painter, Joseph Prezament.The couple had two children together, Anna and Wendy. Briansky’s work has been shown in solo and group exhibitions both in Canada and internationally. Her body of work is diverse in both theme and subject matter, reflecting her interests in fields such as astronomy and the natural world, while remaining deeply rooted in her own experiences. Following her travels to her birth place and memorial sites in Poland in 1995, Briansky produced the ‘Kaddish series’ as her reflection on the trauma of the Holocaust. Other series have broadly used landscape, portraiture and still lifes as a passionate response to the world around her and that speak fundamentally to the human condition. Briansky has participated in multiple collaborative projects, for example the children's book “On Stage, Please” with dancer/ choreographer Veronica Tennant. Briansky is long-established within Montreal’s art community working and living alongside a tight-knit group of artists. In addition, she has worked as teacher, both of art history and studio arts. Briansky’s artistic practice has won her multiple awards and her work is included in the permanent collections of institutions such as the National Gallery in Ottawa, the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
Language
English
French
Yiddish
Custodial History
The material was donated by Rita Briansky in August 2012.
Arrangement
Textual material in Series 2 through 4 was given an imposed order as no discernable original order could be identified. The graphic material in Series 3, 6 and 7 were vetted for duplicates, though otherwise maintain the order given by the artist.
Notes
Selected images from Series 1,6 and 7 have been digitized and are available to researchers upon request.
Access Restrictions
Privacy restrictions may apply
Reproduction Restrictions
Copyright restrictions may apply. For queries please contact Head of Archives, Shannon Hodge: shannon.hodge@jplmontreal.org
Finding Aid
Detailed finding aid available, file level control
Accession No.
12-015
Name Access
Briansky, Rita
Subjects
Briansky, Rita. 1925 -
Artists
Fine Arts
Drawings
Maze, Ida, 1893-1962.
Archival / Genealogical
Archival Descriptions
Repository
Jewish Public Library Archives
Images
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322 records – page 1 of 17.