Florida Jewish Heritage Trail Florida's Economy, Culture and Pensacola

Home , Alfred Tibor, David Levy Yulee, David Sholtz, George Firestone, George Smathers, Jacob (Lost)

I A Florida Heritage publication Introduction

The rich legacy of the Jewish II, Jewish history in Florida world. Florida has the community in Florida can be actually can be traced to 1763 nation's third largest Jewish found in every region of the with the arrival of Alexander community, estimated in 1999 state. As a people, Jews have Solomons, Joseph de Palacios at 800,000. contributed dramatically to and Samuel Israel in The Florida Jewish Heritage Trail Florida's economy, culture and Pensacola. In the 1800s, many retraces the steps of Florida's government and created Jewish families immigrated to Jewish pioneers from colonial institutions that allowed their Florida from northern states times through the present. You heritage to flourish and their and foreign countries to settle are invited to visit the histori- identity to strengthen. both inland and along the cal sites that reflect the Jewish coast. Today, South Florida is Although there is a perception experience in Florida. home to the second largest that Jews did not arrive in concentration of Jews in the Good luck on the Trail. Shalom Florida until after World War aleicheml Peace be with you! Mosaic

The Florida Jewish Heritage Trail crisscrossing Florida, traveling 1990 to 1994. MOSAIC became has had its own journey. It is more than 100,000 miles, the basis and inspiration for an outgrowth of MOSAIC, the researching, collecting photos, the Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH pioneer history-gathering documents and artifacts, and MUSEUM OF FLORIDA in project of the Florida Jewish training volunteers in oral Miami Beach. This guidebook, experience. MOSAIC began in histories and the collection of the Florida Jewish Heritage Trail, 1984 as a local history project historic materials. Hundreds has been enriched by the at the Samuel M. and Helene of people contributed photos, documents, artifacts, Soref Jewish Community photographs and artifacts oral histories, and other Center in Plantation (Broward from their families. From this, archives that are now housed County). Soon the focus of the MOSAIC: Jewish Life in in the Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH MOSAIC was broadened to Florida exhibit was mounted MUSEUM OF FLORIDA. cover the entire state. Marcia and traveled to 11 Florida Zerivitz spent six years cities, then nationally, from

Authors: Rachel B. Heimovics, Freelance Writer, Maitland; Marcia Zerivitz,

Founding Executive Director, Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA, Miami Beach

Graphic Design: Jonathan Lee Lyons, Lyons Digital Media

Photography: Collection of the Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA, Michael Zimny, Phillip M. Pollock, Rachel B. Heimovics, Florida Photo Archives, Florida Department of Commerce, and Ray Stanyard. Photos of Mr. and Mrs. S.H. Benjamin and the S.H. Benjamin & Co. building courtesy of the Micanopy Historical Society Archives

ISBN: 1-889030-20-1 Contents

The Jewish Experience in Florida 2 Northwest Florida 5 Northeast Florida 10 Central and Central East Florida 17 Central West and Southwest Florida 23 Timeline Of Some Significant Dates In Florida Jewish History 28 Ybor City Walking Tour 29 Map of Sites 30 Southeast Florida 32 Jews in Public Office 41 Glossary 44

On the Cover: The Hebrew inscription reads, "Why is this book different

from all other books." The photos on the seder plate are 1. The Simon Ridgeway House in Monticello 2. Beach Street in Daytona Beach 3. Ohev

Shalom Cemetery in Orlando 4. The Audobon House in Key West 5. The

interior of Temple Israel of Greater Miami 6. The Henry Brash House in Apalachicola 7. The Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA

Many of the sites listed in this publication are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, either individually or as contributing resources in a historic district. The National Register is an official list of historically significant properties located throughout the country. The list is maintained by the National Park Service, and includes places that have been documented as being significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture, at the local, state, or national level. For more information on the National Register, consult the National Park Service's National Register website at www.cr.nps.gov/nr/.You may also call the Florida Bureau of Historic Preservation at (850) 487-2333 or 1-800-847-7278 or visit their website at www.flheritage.com. j

The Jewish Experience In Florida

Cultural Clashes City Council imposed a $1,000 tax on achievements because of the barriers The Jewish experience in Florida has peddlers, a large majority of whom they faced and overcame. Chapters been rich in achievements and were Jewish, forcing many to move of the Anti-Defamation League successes. Jews have prospered and farther north. Across the state, Jews (ADL) and the American Jewish left legacies that will forever help to faced and overcame these obstacles. Congress were created in Florida to define the character of Florida. The Jewish settlers of the late 1800s battle anti-Semitism and protect However, these outstanding achieve- and early 1900s persevered and Jewish rights. These groups have ments and contributions to Florida carved niches for themselves in this helped ease discrimination, but by no have a dark side - one of prejudice new and lush land of opportunity. means has discrimination been and discrimination. In early Spanish entirely stamped out. With World War I, anti-Semitism Florida, and other non-Catho- Jews again increased sharply in the state. lics were prohibited from legally Jewish Organizations On Miami Beach, restrictive land settling in Florida and practicing covenants prevented Jews from As Jews settled in Florida, they their religion. Following England's formed organizations that met the residing north of Fifth Street. Ocean- acquisition of Florida in educational, social, health, and 1763, Jews side hotels advertised their resorts were free to settle legally in Florida. recreational needs of their communi- for gentile clientele only. Large areas ties from cradle to grave. Some of the However, persecution and prejudice of Florida were closed to Jewish early organizations were created to still made their lives difficult and settlement. Orlando's Jewish com- help immigrants become settled. For limited their choices in employment munity was excluded from a war example, the first chapter of B'nai and settlement opportunities. When bond rally in 1917. In Miami, the Ku B'rith, a national organization that Florida became an American terri- Klux Klan parodied a popular works to educate its members and tory in 1821, more Jews were free to tourism slogan: "It's Always June in support Jewish causes, was founded move to Florida. Here, America's Miami" to "It's Always Jewish in in 1874 in Pensacola. tolerance of religious diversity made Miami." the state attractive to those perse- organized groups existed Until the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Few Jewish cuted in other lands. Immigrants until the population increased Jews were an "outsider" minority Jewish from Europe, Spain and the Carib- sufficiently to sustain them in the late without an organized ability to fight in to assist in 19th early 20th centuries. As the bean converged Florida the widespread discrimination they and the creation of a multiethnic society. Jewish population increased, Jewish faced in real estate, employment, Federations, Jewish Community Although the new American Florida higher education, and politics. Jews Centers (JCC's) and youth organiza- offered more opportunities, persecu- were forced to found their own law tions were formed around the state. tion, hatred and discrimination firms, banks and other professional At the college level, Jewish fraterni- followed the Jews from their native institutions because they could not ties and sororities were established at lands to Florida. As the numbers of become partners in gentile firms. college campuses. Organizations also Jews increased in Florida, so did the They established their own hospital were created to help with specific number of discriminatory acts because Jewish doctors were denied causes, like the Zionist movement. against them. During times of hospital privileges elsewhere. Jews Jewish newspapers and magazines economic or social crisis, Jews often were barred from country clubs, were founded and, in recent years, were victims of hate crimes and other fraternities and other social clubs. major facilities have been built to atrocities. For instance, in the violent Given the discrimination that was care for the Jewish elderly. All Jewish aftermath of the Civil War, Samuel accepted among large segments of organizations help Jews keep in Fleishman, a Jewish merchant and the non-Jewish population, the touch with each other, ensuring that 20-year resident of Marianna, was economic, political and cultural their heritage is passed from one murdered for advancing credit to contributions made by Jews to the generation to the next. freed blacks. In 1891, the Key West State of Florida are even greater Cemeteries After Jewish cemeteries were estab- split into two, and Key West's The Florida Jewish Heritage Trail lished, it was not unusual for re- congregation is now known as B'nai describes many Jewish cemeteries, all mains to be relocated from distant Zion. of are significant to the Jewish burial grounds. This process is which A particular branch of Judaism requires that a generally discouraged unless it is to community. Judaism identifies Jewish congregations. Jew must be buried in a Jewish move Jewish remains from a non- Orthodox is the most traditional cemetery and not a cemetery of Jewish cemetery to a Jewish cem- branch; Reform is the most modern faith. Burial in non- etery, or to reunite the remains with another a while the Conservative branch cemetery is allowed only if others in the decedent's family. sectarian follows a middle path. Most congre- the Jewish graves are not inter- Today, many Jewish cemeteries can gations in Florida-and all the congre- mingled with the graves of other be found throughout Florida, some gations that predate 1900-are based religions. For this reason, separate, located within larger cemeteries and upon Ashkenazic Judaism, the consecrated Jewish sections often others as stand-alone cemeteries, traditions that arose in Central and were established within larger non- dedicated solely to Jewish burials. Eastern Europe. Several Florida sectarian cemeteries. All Jewish cemeteries preserve congregations follow the Sephardic

The first organization formed by a memory for survivors and remain an rituals, rooted in pre-Inquisition Jewish community is often a chevra important resource for genealogists Spain and Portugal. In 1900, only six kadisha, literally a holy society, whose and for historians of the local com- Jewish congregations existed in purpose is to prepare bodies for munity. Florida. One hundred years later, Jewish burial. Until Jewish cemeter- more than 300 Jewish congregations ies were established in Florida, such Historic Congregations have been established in the state, organizations shipped remains out of Florida Jewish pioneers Philip and the number is increasing. state for ritual burial. It was inevi- Dzialynski, Robert Williams, and table that as the Jewish population Morris Endel each brought a Torah Retailing grew, the local community would with them when they settled in In the 19th and early 20th centuries, create a nearby Jewish cemetery. Jacksonville in 1850, Tallahassee in Jewish merchants crisscrossed the 1865, and Gainesville in 1865, state as itinerant peddlers. They sold Consecrating a Jewish cemetery respectively. This ensured that Jewish their wares in small cities and involves certain procedures. A prayer worship would take place on the villages, sometimes settling down in group meets at the site with the Florida frontier. The Torah is a scroll a new area to open small stores. stated purpose of consecrating the on which is written the Five Books of There they sold groceries, clothing, ground. The group recites psalms, Moses, which constitute the first five footwear, cigars, dry goods, and usually beginning with the 23rd books of the Hebrew Bible. It is the furniture. Oftentimes these mer- Psalm and continuing with the 119th most sacred object in Jewish worship. chants were also skilled craftsmen. Psalm, and concludes with a recita- Some Jewish merchants were mobile, tion of the mourner's kaddish, a By 1900, six Jewish congregations moving from town to town in traditional prayer said on the day of were chartered in Florida. The first response to weather, disease, and burial. To distinguish the occasion was Temple Beth El, in Pensacola, economic disasters. Others remained and the site, old Jewish prayer books founded in 1876. Ahavath Chesed, in one place where their department and ritual objects also may be buried. Jacksonville, 1882; Rodeph Sholom, stores grew over several generations. Finally, the group walks around the Key West, 1887; United Hebrews of In 1857, on the heels of an perimeter of the property. Ocala, 1888; Schaarai Zedek, Tampa, economic panic, 1894; and B'nai Israel, Pensacola, In 1857, when six Jews perished in a Samuel Cline 1899, followed. All the congregations yellow fever epidemic, the Jackson- and Max still remain in existence, although the ville Hebrew Cemetery was estab- White historic congregation in Ocala is now lished as a separate section of closed Jacksonville's Old City Cemetery. This was the first Jewish cemetery in Florida and the first recorded Jewish community institution in the state. The Jacksonville Jewish cemetery was the first of a series that later included Key West, 1865; Pensacola,

1869; Ocala, 1873; Tampa, 1894; St. Augustine, 1911; and Miami, 1913. } J>

their St. Augustine clothing store and Quincy to Tallahassee, Florida Jews and purchased his first cow in 1912. By moved to Tampa. Still others, such as engaged in growing tobacco and the 1950s he owned 5,000 head ranging the Maas brothers in Tampa, the manufacturing cigars during the 19th in St. Johns, Putnam, Hagler, and Volusia Cohen brothers in Jacksonville, and and 20th centuries. Charles and counties. In 1934 Snyder was a founder the Frank family in Clearwater, Hannah Peyser in Ocala manufac- of the Horida Cattlemen's Association. remained in one place where their tured and marketed El Tropico cigars In 1940, George Terry purchased 600 department stores grew over several from 1860 through 1920, while Max acres of citrus groves near Orlando. generations. Wedeles owned one of the largest Within ten years his holdings had shade tobacco farms and packing expanded to 70,000 acres and included Some of these new merchants were houses in North Florida. Others both citrus groves and cattle. Terry also immigrants who paved the way for made their names in various other was instrumental in testing clover used their landsmen to join them, offering ventures such as the Benedict to fatten livestock. In 1939, brothers jobs and monetary help to the newer pineapple packing business in James, Seymour, and Milton Heller arrivals. Merchants settled in areas in Orlando, Harry Rubinstein's tomato began Heller Brothers Packing Corpora- North Florida, such as Live Oak, that farm in Dania, Theodore and Ann tion in Winter Garden. Now into its third served as stop-off points for Jewish Berman's dairy farm in Okeechobee generation, the company's 5,000 acres of newcomers heading into Florida and the Bush family egg farm in the citrus groves extend as far south as from Georgia. St. Petersburg and Clearwater areas. Immokalee in Collier County. The Haftel This small sampling overlooks the family groves in Tarpon Springs, Jews also enjoyed considerable countless others who pioneered as founded in 1953, are extensive and are success in the citrus and cattle Jews and as retailers in the frontier still in operation. industries. In 1923, David Bilgore communities throughout Florida. moved to Clearwater to establish Today, the agricultural legacy of these Through their courage, perseverance, groves and open a packing house and many other Jews have helped to and civic contributions, they estab- and cannery. Bilgore's son-in-law, make Horida a leader in the citrus, lished the roots and credibility that Jules Bragin, joined the business in vegetable and cattle industries. Their enabled others to follow. the 1930s and later formed a partner- foresight into the potential of this vast ship with David's sons, Morris and frontier has forever affected the economy Agriculture Aaron. Russian Jewish immigrant of Horida. Jewish Floridians have produced and Saul Snyder settled in St. Augustine distributed numerous types of farm crops and livestock throughout the state. From Key West to Tampa to

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Jacksonville City Hall, once Cohen Brothers Department Store Northwest Florida

B'nai Israel Synagogue (Conservative) 1909 North 9th Avenue at Mallory 32503 (850) 433-7311 B'nai Israel was the sixth Jewish congregation to be founded in Florida. Chartered in 1899, B'nai Israel met in the vestry room of Temple Beth El, then moved to the Odd Fellows Hall, which was a secret meeting place for the Ku Klux Klan. In 1923, the congregation moved to a synagogue that has since been demolished at 400 North Barcelona Street. They moved to their current site on North 9th Avenue in 1954.

Miss Gerty Goldschmidt's Boarding House Escambia County 230 North Barcelona Street 32501- 4804 Gerty Goldschmidt ran both a Pensacola Historical Experience Museum, a boarding house and a restaurant. Lewis Bear Block portion of the MOSAIC traveling Located only a block from B'nai 402-410 South Palafox Street 32501- exhibit, which traces Jewish settle- Israel's former synagogue, it was 5931 ment in Pensacola from the arrival of where the Jewish crowd ate in the The Lewis Bear Company, founded Joseph de Palacios, Samuel Israel, 1930s. Gerty catered to a citywide in 1876, was a wholesale supplier of and Alexander Solomons in 1763. clientele and renowned for her groceries, hardware, and liquor Visitors can also see the 1896 corner- was Jewish-style southern cooking. throughout the Florida Panhandle. stone from Beth El's former syna- The German-born Lewis Bear gogue that was destroyed by fire in North Hill Preservation District employed Jewish newcomers and 1929. The North Hill Preservation District helped launch the careers of many is a National Register of Historic Beth El Cemetery successful merchants. Bear was a Places District of elegant late 19th- Cervantes Street between Q and R Confederate Army veteran who century and early 20th-century Streets (850) 438-3321 moved from Alabama to Pensacola houses. In the late 1800s and early In 1869, when Simerall Goldbach about 1870. This Classical Revival 1900s, prominent of donated land to Temple Beth El for a many Jews style building, with its colorful Pensacola moved to this neighbor- Jewish cemetery, Beth El's founding balconies, dates from 1892. hood from the area around Seville president Gerson Forcheimer re- Square. Alex Lischkoff, a founder of Temple Beth El (Reform) ceived the deed. The earliest grave is B'nai Israel Synagogue, lived on the 800 North Palafox Street 32501 for one of Goldbach's children, southwest corner of Spring and (850) 438-3321 Abraham, who died of yellow fever Strong and attached a permanent Temple Beth El, founded in 1876, was in the 1870s. In all, Goldbach buried sukkah (booth commemorating the the first Jewish congregation char- five children in this cemetery. A temporary shelters of the Jews in the tered in Florida. The current syna- special marker is dedicated to wilderness) to his house that is still gogue dates from 1931. Inside is Goldbach for his contribution of "this located the North Florida Jewish beautiful spot" to the Jewish community of Pensacola. visible at the corner. Other promi- the city of St. Joseph, once located Jefferson Street is the original office nent Jewish residences of North Hill near here before being destroyed by of the Santa Clara Plantation. include: a hurricane. Among St. Joseph's Hillcrest Cemetery, Jewish section prominent residents was Raphael 200 West Gonzalez Street; Mozart 13th Street, 2 blocks off U.S. High- Jacob Moses. A Charleston-born fifth- Lischkoff way 12 (850) 627-7681 generation American Jew, Moses 811 North Spring Street; Leopold At one time, Jews who died in moved to St. Joseph in 1838 to Mayer Quincy were buried in Bainbridge, become secretary of the Lake Wimico 820 South Barcelona Street; Harry Georgia. After the Jewish cemetery & St. Joseph Canal & Railroad Kahn opened in 1930, some of the early Company. The museum has a replica graves were moved to Quincy. The of an engine from the railroad. Moses Progress Club cemetery is maintained by the city. was a Florida delegate to the 1847 24 West Chase Street 32501-5614 From Quincy, take U.S. Highway 12 national Democratic convention and The Progress Club, founded in 1876 west to 13th Street, turn right and practiced law in Apalachicola until as a Jewish social organization, had continue for two blocks. 1849 when he moved to Georgia. this building constructed in 1911. Its original marble staircase and wood- work remain. The building was also the temporary location of Temple Beth El between 1929, when the synagogue burned, and 1931, when the congregation moved to a new synagogue. Worship services were held in the ballroom.

Franklin County Apalachicola Max Wedeles House Henry Brash House (The Porches) 318 East King Street 32351-2400 67 Avenue D 32320-1793 Gadsden County Max Wedeles, who claimed to have Henry Brash built this yellow pine been the largest independent pro- house in 1865. The porches were Quincy ducer of shade tobacco in the area, added in 1890. Brash, a Confederate In its heyday, Quincy was home to a arrived in Quincy in 1896. He soldier, sponge fisherman and local number of prominent Jewish tobacco acquired this 1894 house for his merchant, and his wife Henrietta growers. Large leaf shade tobacco residence in 1904 while serving on raised 11 children in this house. They was a profitable crop in Gadsden the city council. Other prominent kashered (ritually cleansed) their County in the 19th and 20th centu- Jewish tobacco farmers in Quincy dishes in the Gulf of Mexico and held ries. At that time, shade tobacco were Ignatz Gardner and Max Passover seder dinners on the beach. leaves were used as the outer wrap- Wedeles's son Joe; Morris Scadron pers for cigars. By the late 1970s, and his son Ivis; and Henry however, cigar makers began substi- Weinberg and his brother-in-law Gulf tuting a paper-based product for the County Berthold Ottinger. shade tobacco leaves. That, along Port St. Joe with the overall decline in cigar Weinberg Tobacco Company Constitution Convention State smoking, eventually curtailed 113 South Duval Street 32351 Museum Quincy's tobacco production. In 1922, brothers-in-law Henry 200 Allen Memorial Way 32456 Weinberg, Sr. and B. (Berthold) Former Packing House (850) 229-8029 Ottinger formed the Weinberg 385 East Jefferson Street (U.S. The large outdoor monument lists Tobacco Company and constructed Highway 90) 32351-2531 the delegates to the 1838-1841 this building. In 1939, B. Ottinger This 1890 building is one of Quincy's constitutional convention, including split from Weinberg and became the few original tobacco packing houses. David Levy (Yulee). In the museum, manager of the Swisher and Sons It was used by many Jewish-owned animated mannequins relate the factory, owned by Jonathan H. tobacco businesses. The 1890 Victo- >ry behind Florida's first constitu- Swisher. The Weinberg Tobacco rian cottage next door at 379 East >n and the convention that met in Company operated until 1970. A four-story cigar factory, known as the Swisher Building, was constructed in 1939 and is located at the southwest corner of Porro and Crawford Streets. -The Williams and Leon County Diamond Families Tallahassee Robert Williams and his bride, Florida Photographic Collection, Helena Dzialynski, came to Florida Florida State Archives during the early 1850s. Robert R. A. Gray Building, 1st Floor, 500 settled in Jasper in 1854 and South Bronough Street 32399-0250 Helena moved with her family to (850) 487-2073 Jacksonville around 1850. In The photographic archive contains 1865, immediately after the Civil War, the MOSAIC Collection, donated by the Williams family moved from the Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA on Miami Jasper to Tallahassee. There, Robert bought a store, became a cotton Beach. This collection consists of 650 planter, and was active in civic images of Jewish life in Florida from affairs. Williams is also remem- the 1880s to the 1960s. It can be bered for installing the first street accessed through the Florida lights in the capital city. He often Department of State website at: led prayers holidays in www.dos.state.fl.us/fpc/. on Jewish Tallahassee and provided the Torah Jewish Cemetery for worship services. Today, Robert Miss Ruby Diamond (Oakland Cemetery) Williams' Torah is in the Ark at Between 4th Avenue and Brevard Temple Israel. Henrietta, the fifth daughter, Street on Bronough Street Helena Williams bore five daugh- married Tallahassee merchant and (850) 545-5842 ters, each of whom found a Jewish cotton planter Julius Diamond in Leon County's second Jewish husband. Rachel, the eldest, 1879. Diamond (1853-1914) cemetery opened in 1942 in a desig- married Jacob Raphael Cohen, an emigrated from Prussia to the nated section in Oakland Cemetery. Orlando councilman who had United States in 1866 and to The first burial took place on March signed that city's charter. They Tallahassee in 1870. Diamond 19, 1943 for Harry Mendelson. Earlier were married in 1877 by a rabbi served as chairman of the Leon Jewish burials were conducted either who traveled to Tallahassee from County Board of County Commis- at the Old City Cemetery or in Charleston, South Carolina, to sioners from 1889 to 1899. He was distant cities. After the purchase of perform the ceremony. Cohen known to have distributed seed the 254 gravesites, the grave of became a councilman in Tallahas- and fertilizer to the poor. Mervin H. Wahnish, who died in see. Ida, the second daughter, Henrietta and Julius Diamond had 1914, was transferred from the Old married Cohen's brother, Maurice. two children - Sydney, born in City Cemetery to the Wahnish family Zipporah, the third daughter, 1883, and Ruby, born in 1886. plot. Relocated from Jacksonville married Charles Apte. Wilhamena Sydney became a lawyer, and Miss were the graves of infant Gelberg (Mena), the fourth daughter, Ruby, as she came to be known, and Howard Gelberg who had died became the first Miss Florida in was a symbolic link for the Jews of in 1918. By the 1970s, Tallahassee's 1885. Governor Tallahassee with their com- Jewish community had outgrown When Edward A. Perry was inaugurated in that year, munity's beginnings. Miss Ruby this cemetery, necessitating land Mena led a procession of young lived in Tallahassee throughout purchases for Jewish burial sections women and carried a flag made of her life. In 1905, she earned a B.A. in several other cemeteries. Tallahassee spun silk. Mena degree in chemistry from the married Julius Hirschberg, who Florida Female College (now was one of the principals in the El Florida State University). Later Provedo cigar manufacturing she made significant contributions company. to her alma mater. She died in 1982. Robert Manning Strozier Library, Sabbath candlesticks and other Rare Book Room, Special Collec- Jewish artifacts that belonged to his tions, Facing Landis Green, Florida granddaughter, Miss Ruby Diamond. State University 32306-2047 Also at the synagogue are oral (850) 644-3271 histories and archives of the local The Ruby Diamond Collection of Jewish community. The cornerstone manuscripts, photos, and printed of this synagogue bears the Masonic materials consists of 3,755 pieces, emblem that attests to a long friend- dating back to 1886. Miss Ruby, as ship between the two groups. she was known, was the grand- Alfred Wahnish Tobacco daughter of Tallahassee pioneers Warehouse & Cigar Factory Robert and Helena Williams. Many 469 St. Francis Street 32301-2228 of the papers in the collection relate Alfred Wahnish was a Moroccan Jew to her father, Julius Diamond, who first moved to Pensacola, then businessman and chairman of the settled in Tallahassee in the 1880s. He Leon County Board of County was a prominent shade tobacco Commissioners throughout the grower and owned a 3,600-acre 1890s, and her brother, Sydney, a plantation. In 1907 he built this two- lawyer. The collection also includes story brick building on the southeast major political addresses of the time corner of St. Francis and South and a copy of the birth certificate of Macomb Streets as the first structure David Sholtz, Florida's only Jewish of his three-building Wahnish governor. Governor Tobacco Warehouse & Cigar Factory. Temple Israel (Reform) To the south are the other two David Sholtz 2215 Mahan Drive 32308-6187 buildings, constructed in 1908 and (850) 877-3517 1925-30. Alfred's son, Sam A. Tallahassee's oldest Jewish congrega- Wahnish, was mayor of Tallahassee Governor David Sholtz (1891- tion was founded in 1937. The holy from 1939 to 1941. 1953) served as Florida's only ark contains the Torah scroll that Jewish governor. The son of belonged to Robert Williams, who Jewish immigrants who settled in settled in Tallahassee in 1865. The Daytona Beach in 1915, Sholtz congregation displays the silver was inaugurated as Florida's

26th governor on January 3, 1933. Governor Sholtz's radio broad- cast at this inauguration was a state first. A graduate of Stetson Law School, Sholtz served in the state legislature before his gubernatorial election. Often called the New Deal Governor of Florida, Sholtz's term coincided with President Franklin D.

Roosevelt's first. Sholtz, who considered education a high priority, issued free textbooks to schools and increased school appropriations. His term ended in 1937. s Visit Cedar Key's two museums to learn about the history of Cedar Key, view photographs of the railroad, and research information about Yulee. A state marker in the city park at the east end of 2nd Street near the Historical Society Museum tells the story of Yulee and his railroad.

The Island Hotel 224 2nd Street 32625-5114 (352) 543-5111 or (800) 432-4640 In 1915, Simon Feinberg bought the Parsons and Hale General Store, which dated back to 1859. Feinberg renovated the building and renamed

it the Bay Hotel. In 1919, Feinberg made a routine visit to his hotel and

discovered a still in the attic. Dis- mayed at the disregard for Prohibi- tion, he confronted the manager, who

agreed to remove the still, but insisted Feinberg stay for Several of the stores are standing, lunch. Jefferson County After lunch, Feinberg including the Gibbs Store, the Fleet became drowsy and entered a guestroom MONTICELLO Store, and the Gilmore Store. These where he fell into a sleep. and other Jewish families in town- deep He Simon House the Mendelsons, Rubensteins, and never awoke. Although suspicions 625 East Washington Street (US 90) were aroused, the mystery of Weisses-hired a shochet, a ritual 32344-2546 997-1376 (850) Feinberg' s death was never solved. slaughterer, to come to Live Oak to Today a bed and breakfast and provide them with kosher meat and Hotel lore claims friendly sightings private residence, this Classical of Feinberg' s ghost. to teach their children Hebrew. Revival style house was built in 1888 by Abraham and Rachel Simon. Abe Simon owned a general store and Levy County turpentine business in town. He also manufactured and distributed patent Cedar Key medicines under the name of Cedar Key Historical Society Calmetto Company The large fluted Museum columns were added around 1905. Highway 24 at 2nd Street 32625 They were brought to Monticello (352) 543-5549 from Georgia on a railroad flatbed and then transported by oxen to the Cedar Key State Museum home. Inside, the sun porch is con- 12231 Southwest 166th Court structed of magnolia wood paneling 32625-6200 (352) 543-5350 from Jefferson County.

Levy County was named for David Suwannee County Levy Yulee, Florida's first senator and builder of the first cross-state Live Oak railroad. Yulee's railroad began in Fernandina Beach and reached its Howard Street Merchants terminus in Cedar Key in 1861. It Howard Street, 1st and 2nd Streets, provided a means for carrying the west of Highway 129 region's lumber and its manufac- Live Oak was a stopping-off point tured by-products of turpentine, for Jews moving into Florida from brooms, and pencils across Florida. Georgia. Some remained and opened retail stores on Howard Street. Northeast Florida

Nassau County Duval County

Fernandina Beach Jacksonville Amelia Island Museum of History Old City Cemetery David Levy Yulee 233 South Third Street 32034 Washington and Union Streets (904) 261-7378 32206 The museum features reference Resident Moses Serfarty died in 1857 David Levy Yulee was Florida's materials relating to Yulee's business and was buried in Charleston, South first United States Senator and the and personal life. Carolina because Jacksonville had no builder of Florida's first cross-state Jewish cemetery. Subsequently, railroad. He was born David Levy Nassau County Courthouse Jacksonville Jews organized the in 1810 on St. Thomas, British West Centre Street at 5th Street 32034 Hebrew Benevolent Society and Indies to Moses Elias and Hannah (904) 321-5782 acquired what became the first Abendanone Levy. He was admit- This Georgian Revival style court- cemetery designated for Jewish ted to the bar in 1836 and later house with Italianate features was burial in Florida. Among the earliest helped lead Florida into statehood, constructed in 1892. Herbert William burials were six victims of yellow first as a delegate to the state Fishier worked at the courthouse and fever in 1857 that included the constitutional convention in 1838 served as Fernandina Beach's city Dzialynski family patriarch, and then as territorial delegate to attorney for about two decades. He Abraham, and two of his sons. Seven Congress from 1841 to 1845. David had the longest recorded legal Confederate veterans are buried here. Levy was elected to the United practice of any attorney in States Senate in 1845, becoming the Fernandina Beach and is thought to nation's first Jewish senator. The have been the only Jewish lawyer next year he added the name of his practicing in the county. He was also father's Sephardic ancestry, Yulee. largely responsible for the first Yulee operated sugar plantations bridge (1942) to span the Intercoastal on the Homosassa River and in Waterway at Nassau Sound, thereby Alachua County. A resident of linking Nassau and Duval counties. Fernandina, his railroad in the In recognition of his efforts, the 1850s linked the Atlantic and Gulf bridge was renamed for him follow- coasts. When the Civil War broke ing his death in 1984. The original out in 1861, Yulee resigned from bridge, recently replaced, has been the Senate and served in the relocated to the Amelia Island

Confederate Congress. Yulee was Recreational State Park where it is a briefly imprisoned by the Union, "no-traffic" fishing bridge. and following his release he rebuilt his railroad, which had been Yulee destroyed during the war. Yulee The unincorporated town of Yulee is moved to Washington, D.C., in named for Florida's first senator, 1880. He died six years later and is David Levy Yulee and was on the buried there. Levy County and the route of his Florida railroad. Some of town of Yulee (Nassau County) are the abandoned railbed from that among the Florida places named period is still visible between the for him. towns of Yulee and Callahan while the original railbed from Callahan

south to Archer is still in use. £ The Dzialynski Family

The Dzialynski family is one of the oldest Jewish families in Florida. They emigrated to Jacksonville from Poland via New York City in the 1850s. The family included brothers Phillip and Morris and their parents. Phillip married Ida Ehrlick in 1856 and their son George, born

in 1857, is believed to be the first Jewish male born in Florida. Phillip's family moved to Madi- son in 1860 where he operated a general store. Upon the death of Ida in 1864, Phillip moved to Savannah, Georgia, where he Cohen Brothers Store, St. James Florida Theatre (a performing arts married Mary Cohen, sister of Building (Jacksonville City Hall) center) 128 East Forsyth Street Jacob Raphael Cohen of Orlando 117 West Duval Street 32202-3705 32202 (904) 355-5661 and Tallahassee. The family (904) 630-1377 Seven stories tall, the Mediterranean returned to Florida where they Occupying the entire block, the St. Revival style Florida Theatre was operated stores in Palatka, James Building has been a Jackson- considered the finest theater in Bartow, Orlando and Fort Meade. ville landmark since its completion Jacksonville when it opened in 1927. They returned to Bartow in 1889 in 1912. The Cohen brothers, who Roy A. Benjamin, co-architect, and operated the Orange Grove commissioned the construction of the figured prominently in the rebuild- Hotel before returning to Jack- building, hired renowned Jackson- ing of Jacksonville after the fire of sonville in 1895. Phillip died the ville architect Henry John Klutho to 1901. Benjamin designed both following year. Their daughter, design and supervise the construc- commercial and residential buildings Gertrude, became the first tion of this mammoth building. The in a variety of architectural styles. woman faculty member of East building takes its name from the Some of his Jacksonville designs Florida Seminary, one of famous St. James Hotel that occupied include the Arcade Theatre, the Park Florida's first women lawyers the site until it was destroyed by the Lane Apartments, the San Mateo and helped found the League of 1901 fire that destroyed much of Theatre and the Leon Cheek resi- Women Voters of Florida. Un- downtown Jacksonville. The store dence. He also designed numerous able to find work as a lawyer, occupied the first two floors with buildings throughout the state Gertrude served as secretary to offices on the top two floors, includ- including dozens of theaters and Governor Napoleon Bonaparte ing the new offices of Klutho himself. served on the national board of the Broward. At one time it was the largest depart- American Institute of Architects as a Phillip's brother Morris settled in ment store in the South and the ninth theater specialist. Jacksonville, married Rosa Slager largest in the United States. The Jacksonville Jewish Center and fathered one daughter, building has been rehabilitated and (Conservative) Rosalie. He served as both now serves as the Jacksonville City 205 West 3rd Street 32206-4910 mayor (1881-83), was founding Hall. The four Cohen brothers, (904) 292-1000 president of the state's second Samuel, Morris, Julius, and Jacob, Roy Benjamin designed this building congregation in 1882, and served came to Jacksonville in 1867 and in 1927 for the Jacksonville Jewish as municipal judge before his founded the Cohen Brothers Com- Center, founded in 1901 as the B'nai death in 1907. pany in 1870. The company was in Israel Orthodox Congregation. The business until the 1980s. congregation wanted the building to be both a house of prayer and a

11 £ (The Wolfson Family

Morris and Sarah Wolfson of Jacksonville instilled in their children and grandchildren the Jewish obligation of tzedaka-to better the world by helping the less fortunate. Morris Wolfson was born in 1879 in Lithuania, and at 17, he emigrated to Balti- more where he met and married Sarah Goldberg (born in Balti- more, 1889). He moved his family social center. A synagogue was in the LaVilla Neighborhood. The first to St. Louis and then to housed upstairs and a meeting room Pushaloter Relief Society (for men) Jacksonville. Sarah bore nine and a basketball court were built was founded in 1911 by immigrants children, eight of whom survived below. An activities building was from Pusalotas, Lithuania. Through to adulthood. Wolfson became a added in 1951. The congregation the years the Ladies Auxiliary scrap dealer and accumulated used this building until 1976. Today evolved into the Ladies Hebrew great wealth. The family enriched the Jewish Center is the largest Sheltering & Aid Society and, today, the Jacksonville community in Jewish congregation in Jacksonville. the River Garden Auxiliary. The many ways, giving extensively to women fulfilled their dream to Ahavath Chesed and B'nai Israel Garden, Florida's oldest establish a "Hebrew Home for the River Cemeteries Jewish home for the aged. Today Aged" in Jacksonville. In 1946, River Gate 5, Evergreen Cemetery, 4535 the Wolfson Health and Aging Garden Home opened in a converted North Main Street 32206-1435 Center is part of River Garden. mansion at the corner of Riverside (904) 353-3649 The five Wolfson sons were and Stockton Streets. Because the Jewish section at the Old known for their athletic abilities City Cemetery was running out of Workmen's Circle Branch #441 and interests. Samuel, the eldest space in 1890, the synagogue ac- 762 West Duval Street 32202-4824 son (1909-1963) brought AAA quired three acres adjoining Ever- The Workmen's Circle was an baseball to town and broke the green Cemetery for Jewish burial. A international fraternal organization color barrier by hiring Hank makeshift fence was placed around that recognized Yiddish as a lan- Aaron. Wolfson High School and the cemetery to set it apart from non- guage, assisted in the formation of Wolfson Baseball Park, part of the Jewish graves—a traditional Jewish unions, and sponsored a system of Jacksonville Sports Center, were practice. On April 16, 1890, Morris Yiddish-based, Jewish schools. Its named for him. Louis, the second Cohen, a child, became the first members tended to be intellectuals, son, and his wife, Patrice, owned person buried in the new Hebrew political activists, Socialists, and and bred the racehorse Affirmed Cemetery. Ahavath Chesed later espoused no religious beliefs. In 1910 at their Harbor View Farm in released part of this cemetery to the Workmen's Circle opened its Ocala. Affirmed won thorough- B'nai Israel, the historic Orthodox Labor Lyceum as a center for its bred racing's Triple Crown in congregation founded in 1901, now meetings, classes, and other activities. 1978, a first for Florida. Morris the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Wolfson gave the city of Jackson- LaVilla Neighborhood ville a children's hospital as a way River Garden Hebrew Home/ LaVilla, a blue-collar, low-income of expressing his gratitude for the Wolfson Health and Aging Center neighborhood, was the area of first

many blessings of his life. 11401 Old St. Augustine Road 32258 settlement for Eastern European Wolfson Children's Hospital, now (904) 260-1818 Jewish immigrants to Jacksonville, part of Baptist/St. Vincent's This is the current home of River from around 1890 to after World War

Health System, is a major medical Garden, the oldest Jewish home for I. The historic boundaries of this Street to facility. It was named in memory the aged in Florida. It was founded neighborhood were Bay of son Louis' first wife, the late through the efforts of a women's Beaver Street, Myrtle Avenue to Pearl Florence Monsky Wolfson. organization that began as the Street. Jews lived mainly on Adams, Pushaloter Society Ladies Auxiliary Monroe, Duval, and Church Streets

12 s £ and had their businesses on Adams, Gershom ben Yosef who was killed it that part of the Confederate Broad, and Davis Streets. At the by the Indians in 5601 (1840)." Today, treasury, about $25,000, was briefly northwest corner of Jefferson and the oldest marked grave is from 1911, hidden here. The Kirby-Smith Duval, across from the YMHA, stood belonging to Abe Schneider, who was Chapter 202 of the United Daughters the Orthodox synagogue, B'nai murdered along with the sheriff who of the Confederacy erected a histori-

Israel, founded in 1901. deputized him, when they attempted to cal marker at the site in 1939 and it transport an escaped convict. was rededicated on David Levy Young Men's Hebrew Association Yulee Day in 1999. 712 West Duval 32202-4824 (904) 356-9098 Alachua County GAINESVILLE The YMHA was the center of com- Gainesville Walking Tour munal activity for the Jews of the Archer Several buildings in Gainesville's LaVilla Neighborhood. Built in 1914, Train Depot, Archer Community historic district were Jewish owned the YMHA consisted of an office, a Museum, Archer Historical Society small meeting room, an auditorium, or operated. They include: Magnolia and Main 32618 a balcony, and showers and lockers Endel Brothers General Department (352) 495-1044 in the basement. At the northwest - Archer celebrates the second Satur- Store NW corner of University corner of Jefferson and Duval, across day of each June as David Levy Yulee Avenue and Main Street, Marcus from the YMHA, stood the original Endel, owner; Day in honor of the June 12, 1810, B'nai Israel synagogue. This masonry B'nai Israel (First) Synagogue - birthdate of Florida's first senator. NE vernacular building has been re- corner of 2nd Place Yulee named the town in 1855 to SW and SW 2nd stored and is now the Maceo Elks Terrace; honor his friend, James T. Archer, Lodge. Buns Shul, 18 2nd Avenue, Florida's first secretary of state. The SW central section of the depot dates Abraham Buns, owner; Hotel - 240 South from about 1860, when Yulee' Commercial Main St. Johns County Street, Mary Cohen Dzialynski, railroad stopped in Archer on its manager 1896-1902; cross-state route. The museum St. Augustine B'nai Israel features an audiotaped reenactment Congregation Congregation Sons of Israel (Conservative) - 3830 Northwest of Yulee's last slave, Dolly Nattiel. A (Conservative) 16th Boulevard 32605 376-1508 historical marker on David Levy (352) 161 Cordova Street 32084-5021 This is the congregation's third and Yulee is located on the site. (904) 829-9532 present location. Located inside is the This congregation was founded in Cottonwood Plantation Torah scroll that Moses Endel carried 1908 and the synagogue was dedi- East Archer, contact the Archer to Gainesville in 1865. A marble stone cated in 1923. For decades before Historical Society (352) 495-1044 is embedded in the exterior facade that, the Jews of St. Augustine and David Levy Yulee lived here during that was engraved in the 1920s with Fernandina Beach met in homes for the Civil War. With Union troops the names of the nine founding religious worship. The synagogue approaching Fernandina, Yulee families. was built in 1923 using stained glass boarded the last train out and windows from a 100-year-old Atlanta escaped to Cottonwood. Legend has synagogue.

Congregation Sons of Israel Cemetery 113 Evergreen Avenue 32084 (904) 829-9532 The oldest unmarked grave in this cemetery is that of a Jewish peddler killed by Indians in 1840. His grave, supposedly beneath a large tree, was the reason why the surrounding land was designated a Jewish cemetery in 1911. The 1926 Jacksonville Jewish Year Book actually described the missing tombstone as having a Hebrew epitaph, "Here rests Masonic Temple 215 North Main Street 32601-5319 (352) 372-9350 As in many communities across Florida, there are strong ties between Gainesville's Jewish and Freemason communities. In Gainesville, Jewish High Holiday services were held at the Masonic Temple in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Marcus Endel served as Grand Master of Horida's Grand Lodge of Masons in 1893.

Jewish Cemetery East University Avenue and Waldo Road This small cemetery, founded in 1871

and dedicated in 1872, is still in use. Gravesites at this cemetery include The Benjamin Family Gainesville Jewish pioneer, Moses Endel and his son, Marcus.

The Benjamin family made many an architect who was acclaimed for Matheson Historical Center civic, mercantile, and architectural his theater designs. Roy appren- 513 East University Avenue contributions to Florida. Simon ticed in New York and Albany, 32601-5451 (352) 378-2280 Benjamin was one of the first Georgia, before moving to Jackson- Housed in a 1932 American Legion members of this family to arrive in ville. He designed dozens of building, this history museum and Florida. Born in 1850 in the Prus- theaters in Florida and elsewhere historic research library features sian province of Posen, Simon in the South and served on the archives of the Gainesville Jewish immigrated to Florida at the age of national board of the American community. Included are historic 17. He came to Alachua County to Institute of Architects as a theater materials on the Endel family, Joseph establish a business in the village of specialist. His Florida Theatre Weil, and David Levy Yulee. The Waldo. As he journeyed to Waldo, (Jacksonville), Jacksonville Jewish collection also has minutes of the his cousin, S.H. Benjamin met him Center, Marble Arcade (Lakeland), Daughters of Israel from the 1930s and at a railroad stop, a dry goods and Edwards Theater (Sarasota) are 1940s, photographs and records of B'nai merchant already established in on the Florida Jewish Heritage Trail. Israel Congregation, and Jewish commu- Micanopy. Simon stayed in Waldo S.H. Benjamin, who had greeted his nity yearbooks and directories. for three years and then moved to cousin Simon in 1867, came to Ocala, where his brother, Solomon, Micanopy circa 1860. In 1885 he University of Florida Sites joined him. In 1884 Simon opened built the Benjamin Building, and in Hillel Foundation the East Florida Ice Manufacturing 1886 his daughter, Rosa, married 16 Northwest 18th Street 32603-1835 Company, which was said to be the his business partner, Jacob Katz, at (352) 372-2900 first ice-making plant in Florida. In a much-feted wedding. S. H. Hillel Houses provide a focus for 1892, Simon and Solomon formed commissioned the Florida Southern Jewish social, cultural, and religious the Silver Springs and Ocala Gulf Railroad to stop in Micanopy to life on campuses throughout the Railroad, running from Ocala to take the wedding party and guests nation. Founded in 1937 as the first Dunnellon and Homosassa. In that to Jacksonville as part of the Hillel in Florida, the present building year Solomon served as president festivities. S.H. and Jacob Katz was dedicated in 1952. This Hillel of the Board of County Commis- continued in business together became a center not only for Jewish sioners. In 1896 Simon was elected until 1901, when S.H. moved out of students but also for Jewish faculty to the Ocala City Council. He also state. S.H. died in New York State and for the community at large. B'nai served as president of the Jewish circa 1905. Israel Congregation, which had congregation in Ocala. He moved outgrown its small synagogue, used to Jacksonville where he died in this building for religious school 1931 at the age of 81. Roy Benjamin classes and other activities. The (1887-1963), Simon's son, became family of Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Buns, who operated the Buns Shul

14 ^ : Moses Elias Levy

Moses Elias Levy, a founder of the city of Micanopy and father of David Levy Yulee, was born in 1781 in Morocco, where his father was a Moroccan government minister. When Moses' father died in 1800, the family moved to St. Thomas, West Indies. There young Levy built a successful lumber business, and, in 1803, married Hannah Abendanone. They subsequently had two sons and synagogue during the 1920s and fraternities at the University of two daughters. Levy moved to 1930s, donated the Torah scroll at Florida. Jews founded their own Havana in 1816 where he made a Hillel. Greek societies because they were fortune in shipping and soon generally excluded from member- Isser and Rae Price Library of acquired 50,000 acres of the ship in gentile fraternities and Judaica 1504 Norman Hall 32611 Arrendondo grant in Spanish sororities. It is now the office of the (352) 392-0308 Florida, near today's Micanopy. Independent Florida Alligator, the With its more than 60,000 titles, the In 1821 Levy moved to Florida, University of Florida's student Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica then to Micanopy where, in 1822, newspaper. is the largest in the Southeast, he became a naturalized American concentrating on the political, social, Joseph Weil Hall citizen. Levy established Pilgrim- economic and intellectual history of Stadium Road age Plantation, which he hoped to Jewish culture in all historical This hall was renamed to honor the transform into a colony for periods. At the time of its acquisition late dean of the College of Engineer- persecuted European Jews. He in 1977, the Price Library was the ing whose office was located in the built houses, dug wells, and largest private library of Judaica and building. Weil was a leader of the sought international support for Hebraica in the United States. local Jewish community and the first his haven. Pilgrimage Plantation

Dedicated on March 8, 1981, the president of B'nai Israel Congregation. was burned in the Second Semi- library's core collection is formed by nole War in 1835, and, although it the Rabbi Leonard C. Mishkin MlCANOPY remained a sugar plantation, it never turned a profit. Levy not Library. The library is named in Benjamin Building (O' Brisky only planned for the rescue of honor of a Jacksonville family active Books) 100 block of Cholokka persecuted Jews, he also pub- in Jewish community life. Boulevard 32667 (352) 466-3910 lished a plan to abolish slavery. He Building, built S. George Smathers Library, Depart- The Benjamin by H. became a proponent for free ment of Special Collections Benjamin in 1885, was the first two- education in Florida and was a story brick building in Micanopy. University of Florida (352) 392-6547 charter officer of the Florida second story lost in a fire This library includes the David Levy The was Education Society. By the 1840s long ago. 1883 Yulee Papers; the Machal Archives Between and 1901, Levy owned 100,000 acres which documents American volun- Benjamin and his partner, Jacob Katz, throughout the state, including operated a dry goods and furniture teers in Israel's 1948 War of Indepen- land along the St. Johns River business at this location. dence; and the Samuel Proctor Oral southward to where the city of History Program which includes Micanopy Historical Society Sanford was later built, and taped interviews with many Jewish Museum Cholokka Boulevard and westward to Tampa Bay. Through- Floridians. Bay Street 32667 (352) 466-3200 out his life Levy strictly observed houses an exhibit Tau Epsilon Pi Fraternity The museum the kosher laws just as they were 1105 West University Avenue 32601- covering four generations of written in the Torah, continually Micanopy Benjamins, with portraits, 5385 (352) 376-4446 seeking to improve conditions for china and silver as well as S. H. The fraternity, founded in February his co-religionists throughout the Benjamin's woolen suspenders and 1925, was one of the first two Jewish world. Moses Elias Levy died in 1854 his ivory-handled walking cane. Also

15 Lemon Street, Palatka (now St. Johns Avenue)

on display is the Micanopy Gazette, Loeb House Jacobsons also owned the similar house featuring front-page ads for fabrics 510 North 3rd Street 32177-3518 next door at 304 North 3rd Street. and clothing during the grand Marcus Loeb built this Victorian style Lilienthal House opening sale at S.H. Benjamin & house in 1886 for his own residence. 524 South 17th Street 32177-4715 Co's. The collection includes pictures Loeb arrived in Palatka in the early Bavarian-born B. H. Lilienthal was of the Benjamin Building when it 1880s and opened a clothing store. the first mayor of Palatka Heights, an was first constructed and as it He was president of Palatka's first early suburb. He moved to Palatka in appears today. telephone company and vice presi- 1874, bought this lot in 1875, and dent of the old East Florida Savings built this Victorian frame vernacular and Trust Company. He was a house around 1880. Lilienthal was a Putnam County member of the city council from 1884 city councilman for Palatka in the to at least 1896, and grandmaster and 1870s and county treasurer in 1895. Palatka treasurer of the Palatka Masonic During the 19th century, many Jews Lodge. Meyer House came to Palatka to seek their fortune. 508 Laurel Street 32177-5146 Jacobson House They traveled from Jacksonville on Israel and Dina Meyer were the first 300 North 3rd Street 32177 the St. Johns River and settled in occupants of this Victorian style Dry goods merchant Leo Jacobson Palatka, a prosperous mill town and house, built circa 1885. Meyer was and his wife Lottie were the first tourist destination. Here they opened one of the earliest Jewish merchants occupants of this Colonial Revival small retail stores on Lemon Street, in downtown Palatka. The two-story style house, built in 1912. Its two- today known as St. Johns Avenue. By portico, patterned in cut-turned story veranda with balustrades and 1926, there were approximately 100 balustrades and brackets, is in the four-sided "hip" roof are reminiscent Jews in Palatka. Although the Eastlake style. of the earlier Eastlake style. The original stores are gone, many of their houses remain in the city's S.H. Benjamin & Co. historic districts. For more information about Palatka's historic sites, contact the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, 1100 Reid Street (904) 328-1503.

Calhoun House (Azalea House Bed & Breakfast) 220 Madison Street 32177-3531 (904) 325-4547 This Victorian style mansion, built by Marcus Loeb between 1878 and 1883, has been restored. Visitors are welcome. The house is noted for its encircling verandas, multigabled roof and stained glass windows. £ Central and Central East Florida

Jewish mayor. Rheinauer 's was to Mack's (women's clothing store), become one of Florida's most fash- Hyman and Celia Roth, 1910, at 130 ionable clothing stores. A young South Beach Street; Isaac Maas clerked for Rheinauer in Doby's (men's clothing store), Sam the early 1880s. Within a few years and Bessie Dobrow, 100 North Maas joined his own brother, Abe, in Beach Street; Tampa where they founded the Maas Nass's Bootery; Brothers Department Store. Jay's Dress Shop; Henry Silverstein's Luggage. United Hebrews of Ocala Cemetery North Magnolia Avenue and Northeast 14th Street 34475-9077 Thelma Schlossberg Room, Florida (352) 629-3587 or (352) 624-0380 Braille and Talking Book Library

This is the fourth oldest Jewish 420 Piatt Street 32114 (904) 239-6000 cemetery in Florida, dating from or (800) 226-6075 1873. Marcus Frank, Charles Thelma Schlossberg spent many Rheinauer, and Joe and Fred Malever years at this library teaching herself United Hebrews of Ocala are among those buried here. and others to transcribe books into Temple, built in 1888 Braille. In the 1980s, the library United Hebrews of Ocala Temple created the Thelma Schlossberg 719 Northeast 2nd Street 34470-6755 Room as a place for her to conduct Florida's oldest existing synagogue Braille workshops. Braille also has dates from 1888, the year the congre- been a major project of the Sister- gation was founded. This wooden Marion County hood of Temple Beth El, originally of building was the third synagogue Daytona Beach, now of Ormond built in Florida after the Pensacola Ocala Beach. This library is part of the and Jacksonville synagogues. Its Marcus Frank House (Anderson- Division of Blind Services for the original stained glass windows are Frank House) 728 Fort King Avenue State of Florida. still in place. 34471 This elegant 1891 Classical Revival style house was the residence of BREVARD COUNTY Marcus Frank. In 1899, 16-year-old VOLUSIA COUNTY Frank and his widowed mother, Cocoa Daytona Beach Julia, moved from South Florida to Rubin Brothers Department Store Beach Street Retailers Ocala. Frank rose to prominence as a 100 Harrison Street, Northwest 200 North Beach Street to 200 South businessman while serving as a city corner of Harrison and Delany Beach Street 32114 councilman for 16 years, and was Streets 32922-7913 For 80 years Jewish-owned retail elected to the Florida House of This site-once the largest store in shops dominated these blocks of Representatives in 1939 and 1948. Brevard County-is in the quaint area Beach Street. Among the earliest was now known as Cocoa Village. Isadore Rheinauer & Brothers First Store Ginsberg's Panama Hat Store. Jacob and Anna Holtsberg Rubin settled in 20 Southeast Broadway 34471-2132 and Anna Ginsberg came to Daytona Cocoa in 1914. They had this build- Charles Rheinauer, son of a cantor, Beach in 1908 and are considered its ing constructed to house their third settled in Ocala in 1882. His brothers first Jewish family. Other Jewish- store. Isadore was very active in civic Maurice and Ben worked with him owned stores located on Beach Street affairs and was elected councilman in in the clothing business. In 1906, were: 1926. He served eight years until the Charles became Ocala's second

17 Depression caused the family to move to Miami. The Rubins are believed to be the only Jewish family to have lived in Cocoa during those years. When they moved, the city of Cocoa declared "Isadore Rubin Day" in appreciation for his civic contributions. The family produced three mayors: Fred Holtsberg and Bernard Rubin in Fort Pierce, and Philip Rubin in Crystal River.

Seminole County Sanford Jewish Center of Sanford 203 East 16th Street 32771 Sometimes called Beth Israel Temple, Harry Pepper and Mack Roth this synagogue was built in 1927 by Abraham H. Moses and dedicated in memory of his wife, Annie. The local celebrated there Harry Pepper and Mack Roth were holidays were as Jewish community owned it until 1968. the pivotal organizers of the well. During World War II, the Manuel Jacobson's Department Daytona Beach Jewish community. Pepper home became a gathering Store (Hotchkiss Block) Harry Pepper was born in Austria place for Jewish servicemen and 213 East First Street 32771 in 1889. He was sent to America at servicewomen. Jacobson's Department Store occu- the age of six as the traveling Hyman Roth (1869-1940) and Celia pied this 1886 Romanesque Revival companion of an older sister. They Roth (1870-1935) arrived in style brick building for many years. were joined a few years later by Daytona Beach in 1910 and opened Manuel and Hannah Jacobson their parents and other siblings. a women's clothing store named arrived in Sanford in 1931. His The Peppers settled in Providence, Mack's Shop after one of their nine brothers Herman and Arthur who, in Rhode Island, where Harry married children. Later, Mack Roth oper- 1925, opened the Department Bella Berman in 1910. Six years H & A ated the store that bore his name, Store at 401 South Sanford Avenue later, Harry had difficulty recuper- which stood at 130 South Beach preceded them. Manuel's first store ating from an appendectomy, and Street. As a close friend of Gover- was the Outlet, diagonally across his doctor recommended a change nor David Sholtz, Roth organized from A. In the 1950s, the broth- of climate. Harry and Bella Pepper H & the welfare agencies of Orange, ers relocated their businesses to First then moved to Florida, first to Osceola, Putnam, Volusia, and Street. Herman and his wife, Rose Jacksonville and then to Daytona Flagler counties. Roth and his wife, Edith, opened Ro-Jay, a women's Beach, where the Peppers joined a Estelle, were active promoters of fashion store in the historic Meisch Jewish "community" of two many Jewish causes. In 1924 Mack Building, at 224 East First Street. The families and a few single men. Roth and Harry Pepper helped Jacobsons were part of a sizeable Harry became a dealer in junk found the Daytona Hebrew Asso- community that at one time products and secondhand automo- Jewish ciation in order to establish a outnumbered the Jewish community biles and auto parts. His business Jewish congregation and a Jewish of nearby Orlando. flourished and, durii^ 'he land cemetery. In 1924 the association boom in the mid-1920^ 'switched Moses Clock and Park acquired the land that became Mt. to real estate. Harry bu Pep's First Street and Magnolia Avenue Sinai Cemetery and founded Pool, the first public swi ing Abraham H. and Annie Moses Temple Israel. Mack Roth was pool in Daytona Beach ai first arrived in Sanford in 1909 and appointed president for three salt-water swimming poo, established a produce farm. Abe months. Harry Pepper followed as Florida. Jewish newcomer acquired this clock in 1930 when he the first elected president. Daytona Beach were welcon it purchased the First National Bank at the Pepper home and Jewish 101 East First Street. He donated it to the city, where it was initially used as a museum, a library, and facilities for part of a traffic signal at Park and its education program. The perma-

First. When it became apparent that nent exhibit contains the following the clock was more hazard than help, sections: The Life Before; In the

the city removed it. In 1985, the Camps; Resistance; Final Solution; Moses' granddaughter Stella Oritt Liberation; Witness Histories; and and her husband purchased the Local Survivors and Liberators. Wolf

clock, had it restored and donated it Kahn, a refugee from the Holocaust to the city of Sanford in memory of who lives in Maitland, designed the her grandparents. She stipulated that Center's door. she wanted the clock to be located on Magnolia-the street where she had Orlando lived as a child. The clock and a Berman House commemorative plaque were placed 830 Lucerne Terrace 32801-3732 in this tiny park on Sanford' s main Nat and Pauline Berman came to business street. Orlando in 1908 and moved into this house circa 1935. Their daughter and Jacob Raphael her husband lived in the house Orange County behind at 115 West Gore. Pauline Cohen Berman was an activist who called Maitland the meeting that resulted in the Jacob R. Cohen was one of the Holocaust Memorial and Resource formation of Ohev Shalom, drafters of the Orlando City Education Center Orlando's first Jewish congregation. Charter and a member of the 851 North Maitland Avenue 32751 A major force in the civil rights city council in Orlando and in (407) 628-0555 movement, she was regarded as the Tallahassee. Born in 1850, This building was constructed in first female radio news commentator Cohen moved to Florida in the 1986. The six bay-glass windows in in the nation and hosted her own 1860s and opened a series of front feature an eternal flame in radio program from 1930 to 1933. memorial to the six million Jews who general stores in Florida's Dr. P. perished in the Holocaust. Six Phillips' Original Home frontier settlements in Fort columns that represent the smoke 211 North Lucerne Circle East 32801 Meade, Fort Ogden, Bartow, stacks of the crematoria flank the (407) 648-5188 and Palatka around 1870 and in This restored 1893 house is part of building. Adjacent to the Center is a Orlando in 1873. Cohen was memorial garden. The Center houses the Courtyard of Lake Lucerne-a assisted in some of his early group of four restored historic businesses by his brother-in- properties, including the city's law Philip Dzialynski, who had oldest house, that are now married Cohen's sister, Mary, in private bed and breakfast inns. 1865. Cohen furthered his This was the home of Dr. connection with the Dzialynski Phillip Phillips, one of family in 1877 when he married Florida's most successful Philip's niece, Rachel Williams, the daughter of Robert and Helena Dzialynski Williams of Tallahassee. Upon his marriage, Cohen moved to Tallahassee. In 1890, as a member of the Tallahassee City Council, Cohen introduced a resolution that designated two cemetery plots in the Old City Cemetery for Jewish burial. This was the first Jewish burial ground in Tallahassee. Cohen died in Tallahassee in November of that year.

19 early citrus growers. Phillips came to awards funds to civic and cultural tween Sarasota and Maine. His wife Orlando in 1897 to buy land for activities. Eva, a survivor of Auschwitz, was a groves. His empire grew to over painter. Mennello Museum of American 5,000 acres. In 1916, Dr. Phillips built Folk Art, 900 East Princeton Street Ohev Shalom Cemetery a theater at 25 South Orange Avenue. 32801 (407) 246-4278 Old Winter Garden Road, 1/4 mile In addition to the theater's live Originally the home of Dr. Phillips' West of Kirkman Road 32835 entertainment, it also became what is son, this structure was built in 1971, (407) 298-4650 believed to have been Orlando's first renovated in 1998 and reopened that This is the oldest of Orlando's Jewish movie house. Dr. Phillips was active year as the Mennello Museum. cemeteries, founded in 1927 and in many social and civic organiza- Permanently displayed in the originally called Mount Neboh. tions during his lifetime. As a result, gardens and in front of the museum Buried here are members of Jewish there are numerous sites in the are the whimsical sculptured crea- families who came to Central Florida Orlando area that bear his name. The tures crafted by Paul Marco from in the early 1900s-the Salomons, Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center, welded farm implements. Marco Kanners, and Bermans. Also interred now a rehearsal hall for the Orlando (1911-1997) was born in Czechoslova- here are Shaders, Wittensteins, Civic Opera, also is located at 25 kia and in later years Meitins, Levys, and Millers-mem- South Orange Avenue. Today the Dr. divided his time be- bers of Pittsburgh families who P. Phillips Foundation annually emigrated to Orlando circa 1912.

Israel Shader (who is buried in Pittsburgh) brought a Torah scroll to Orlando and conducted religious services in a citrus grove, midway between his land and the adjoining

Levy farm. The Shader Torah is buried at this cemetery. Jewish tradition requires sacred books and scrolls to be buried as part of a religious ceremony. Such a burial is one of the steps that may be undertaken to consecrate land for a Jewish cemetery.

Three Former Synagogues in Downtown Orlando The city's three historic Jewish congregations were located in the downtown area where many of their congregants lived.

Congregation of Liberal Judaism (Reform) 301 North Ferncreek Avenue 32803-5400 The Liberal Jewish Fellowship, founded in 1948, became the Con- gregation of Liberal Judaism two years later. This 1951 building was the congregation's first synagogue. Liberal remained here until 1971.

Ohev Shalom Congregation (Conservative) 525 East Church Street 32835 Orlando's first synagogue dates from 1926. Ohev Shalom, Orlando's oldest Jewish congregation, founded in 1918, remained at this site until v^ :

1972. George Miller, who married Original Temple Emanuel College, was the first built in Lake- one of Israel Shader's daughters, (Conservative) land. The congregation built this designed the Neo-classical Revival 308 West Patterson 33803-1242 synagogue adjacent to its original style building. Its original stained In 1926, 16 Jewish families met above site which burned down. glass windows are still in place. a store on Main Street to hold Wolfson's Famous Stores religious services, forming the Jewish Temple Israel (Conservative) 236 N. Kentucky Avenue 33801-4979 Alliance of Lakeland. In 1932, the 331 Cathcart Avenue 32803-5630 Cyrus Wolfson, believed to be the Jewish Alliance purchased this Temple Israel was chartered in 1954 first Jewish settler in Lakeland, came church building for $1,000 and and soon bought this 1928 Mediterra- here in 1909 to collect a bill. So remodeled it into its first synagogue. nean Revival style church. The impressed was he with the town that As their numbers grew, the congre- congregation remained here until 1966. he moved his family here three years gation became known as Temple later and opened his first Famous Emanuel. They remained here until Store at 236 North Kentucky Avenue. 1962 when they moved to their Polk County This building later served as The current location. Strand, Lakeland's first movie Lakeland Temple Emanuel (Conservative) theater. He then moved his store to Munn Historic District 600 Lake Hollingworth Drive 33803- 121 East Main Street before moving

Estroff 's Department Store 2363 (941) 682-8616 to its third and final location at 211- 224-228 East Pine 33801 This 1962 synagogue, located across 215 East Main Street from 1920 to The restored 1903 Clonts Building the lake from Florida Southern 1932. He was so proud of this store was an early site of Nathan Estroff's Department Store, located here from 1925 to the mid-1930s.

Marble Arcade Building 129 South Kentucky Avenue 33801 This ten-story office building was designed by Roy Benjamin in 1926-

1927 and restored in 1988. It was Lakeland's first steel frame high-rise building and for nearly 40 years was considered the city's most presti- gious office location. The building follows the style of the famous American architect, Louis L. Sulli- van, by combining strong vertical and horizontal lines with more classical details.

Nathan and Leonard Wolf Citrus Groves Highway 540 at Highway 98 and 548, across from University of South Florida Lakeland Campus The Wolf Citrus Groves can be viewed from this vantage point. Nat Wolf and later his son, Leonard, operated extensive groves throughout Central Florida beginning in the 1930s. Nat's first grove was in Lake Garfield, now on the site of a phos- phate mine. Nat Avenue and Wolf Avenue in Arcadia are reminders of Nat Wolf's groves there. Other Wolf groves are north of Sebring.

21 that he changed its name from in the 1960s. The remains of Michael able to truck produce from inland Famous Store to Famous Department Kahn, who had been buried in 1943 farms to markets on the East Coast Store. Inside were solid mahogany in an Orlando Jewish cemetery, were and beyond. To accomplish this, he counters with slide-out shelves. transported to the family plot in convinced the state to construct State Sebring. Reburials, rarely permitted Road 76 from Lake Okeechobee's Wolfson's Drug Store under Jewish law, are allowed when eastern shore at Port Mayaca to U.S. 1211 South Florida 33803 the remains are moved to a family Highway 1 at Stuart. After his death Wilfred Wolfson (Cyrus Wolfson's gravesite or when they are moved in 1967, State Road 76 was renamed son) opened the first drive-in drug- from a non-Jewish cemetery to one the A.O. Kanner Highway. This 1937 store in Lakeland. He constructed that has been consecrated for Jewish Art Deco style courthouse was this building in 1953. He built his burial. restored in 1990 and turned into an second at 1401 Lakeland Hills art museum. Boulevard. Although it closed in 1988, his third store, at 2518 South Martin County Florida, still bears his name-Wolfson Drug Store. Stuart Old Martin County Court House Highlands 80 East Ocean Boulevard 34994 (561) 287-6676 County Judge Abraham Otto (A. O.) Kanner served on the circuit court in this Sebring building from 1941 to 1957. The courtroom judges' Kahn's Department Store and chambers (Nan-Ces-O-Wee Hotel) were located on the second floor. 133-145 North Ridgewood Drive Kanner was born in Sanford in 1893 33870-7202 and moved to Stuart in 1925 where live for remainder of Mike and Sadie Kahn, immigrants he would the his life. served in the Florida from Lithuania who barely spoke He Legislature from 1927 to 1941 and English, came to the young town of later as the first Chief Justice of Sebring in 1921 in search of opportu- Florida's newly created 2nd District nity. Developer George Sebring Court of Appeals. Kanner foresaw warmly welcomed them. By 1925, importance of being Kahn's Department Store occupied the economic part of the ground floor of George Sebring's 1923 Nan-Ces-O-Wee Hotel. The three-story brick building

is the largest surviving commercial building in downtown Sebring. In 1933, Michael Kahn began acquiring citrus groves and farmland. After his death in 1943, Sadie began managing

the groves. She is credited with installing the first modern irrigation system in Highlands County. Some

of the original pipe is still used to irrigate the Kahn groves. A little park, dedicated to her, adjoins the hotel building.

Jewish Section, Sebring Municipal Cemetery, Cemetery Road (941) 385-0101 Recognizing the need for a Jewish cemetery, the Kahn family bought approximately 100 contiguous gravesites at the municipal cemetery

22 £ Central West and Southwest Florida

Citrus County HOMOSASSA '- •. t • Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins State •< Historic Site and Park One mile west of Homosassa on Highway 490. For information contact the Crystal River State Archaeological Site, 3400 North Museum Point, Crystal River 34428 (352) 795-3817. David Levy Yulee, Florida's first U.S. Senator, once owned a thriving sugar plantation at this location. Dating from 1851, it covered more than 5,000 acres and produced cotton, citrus Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins, Ho crops and sugar cane. The sugar mill, which is located near the Homosassa River, operated for 13 years produc- and donated them to the temple in floor houses the permanent exhibit, ing sugar, syrup, and molasses. memory of a loved one. B'nai Israel which includes a boxcar once used When the house on Tiger Tail Island was founded shortly after World War by the Nazis to transport Jews and was burned by Union troops in 1864, II and is the oldest Jewish congrega- others to extermination camps. The the mill was abandoned and the tion in Clearwater. The current exhibit is divided into 12 sections plantation left in ruins. The site synagogue was built in 1972. that cover pre-war life in Eastern Europe, the Holocaust, concentration includes remnants of the mill and Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park, camps and the birth of the State of picnic areas. Jewish Section Israel. Special exhibitions are shown 2860 Sunset Point Road 33759 on the second floor. The museum (727) 796-1992 also houses a theater, a meditation Pinellas County Most of Clearwater's pioneer Jews court, an archive repository with are buried in this cemetery, including Clearwater video testimonies, a learning center, Louis and Hannah Frank. Louis Holocaust Memorial at Temple and a library and resource center. Frank is considered to be the first B'nai Israel (Reform) permanent Jewish resident of Maas Brothers Department Store 1685 South Belcher 33764 Road Pinellas County. Frank settled in (Florida International Museum) (727) 531-5829 Clearwater in 1911 and founded the 100 2nd Street North 33701 Alfred Tibor's 23-foot Holocaust New York Department Store the (727) 821-1448 Memorial is a focal point for Holo- following year. This building is the former 300,000- caust education in Pinellas County. square-foot Maas Brothers Depart- Inside the synagogue visitors will St. Petersburg ment Store that operated here from find backlit stained glass windows Florida Holocaust Museum 1948 to 1991. It was one of the largest that were made in pre-Holocaust 55 Fifth Street South 33701 of the Maas Brothers stores in the Germany for a synagogue in Indiana. (727) 820-0100 state, and in downtown St. Peters- The windows were found at a flea The museum opened at this site in burg. The museum opened in market in Pinellas County. A member 1998 in a renovated bank with 27,000 January 1995 and showcases major of the congregation purchased them square feet of exhibit space. The first traveling exhibitions.

23 J Temple Beth El (Reform) to supermarkets. People are welcome Maas Brothers Arlington, between 7th and 8th to stop and buy strawberries, al- 612-20 North Franklin Street 33602 North though Wishnatzki and Nathel Maas Brothers, in business for over St. Petersburg's historic Reform Strawberries does not operate as a 100 years from 1886 to 1991, was congregation was founded in the late retail outlet. Florida's largest department store 1920s. The congregation built this chain. At one time, 19 Maas Brothers synagogue in 1932. Beth El remained Tampa stores operated in Florida. Abe Maas here until 1962 when it moved to its Jewish Merchants of Franklin Street left Ocala for Tampa in 1884 and was current location at 400 Pasadena 500 through 1500 blocks of North soon joined by his brother Isaac. Avenue South. Franklin Street 33602 After the brothers retired in 1929 North Franklin Street, now a pedes- their nephew, Jerome Waterman, trian mall, was long dominated by succeeded them. Waterman was an Hillsborough Jewish-owned retail establishments. aviator who promoted the growth of In 1903 there were 16 Jewish-owned aviation in Tampa and later helped County stores on Franklin Street. By 1926 found National Airlines. Waterman there were 40, including haberdash- is remembered at MacDill Air Force Plant City eries, milliners, ladies' fashions, Base, south of Tampa, where a room Wishnatzki and Nathel hosiery, dry goods, jewelers, shoes, in the Officer's Club is named for Strawberries and furniture. Among the peddlers him. 100 Stearns Street 33566-5045 and merchants immi- was German Daisy G. Waterman Lighthouse for (813) 752-5111 grant Morris Wolf. to Wolf went the Blind 1106 West Piatt Street This company has been known since work for the Maas brothers in their 33606-2142 251-2407 the 1930s as the Winter Strawberry (813) clothing store and later opened his King because most winter strawber- Daisy Waterman and the Tampa clothing store. own custom Maas section of the National Council of ries in the country once came from Brothers, Wolf Brothers, O. Falk and Jewish Women spearheaded the Plant City. Polish immigrants Harris the of smaller retail stores dozens community project that built the and Yetta Wishnatzki came to Plant along this strip influenced the Lighthouse for the Blind. Waterman City in the early 1930s. Deeply proud buying habits of several generations also helped found Tampa's first of his Jewish heritage, Harris de- of shoppers came to Franklin who Braille program, undertaken by the signed his produce label with a Star Street from a wide region of Florida. Sisterhood of Temple Schaarai of David, in spite of threats from his Zedek. competition. The family still uses the label on all the produce it distributes Schaarai Zedek (Reform) 3303 Swann Avenue 33609 (813) 876-2377 Schaarai Zedek was founded on October 14, 1894, as Florida's fifth Jewish congregation. The congrega-

tion built its first synagogue in 1899

at 1205 Florida Avenue, where it remained until 1923. In 1957 the congregation moved to Swann Avenue. The cornerstones from the 1899 and 1924 synagogues are embedded in the present building. Some of the congregation's early archives may be seen by appoint- ment.

Tampa Bay History Center 225 South Franklin Street 33602- 5329 (813) 228-0097 The Tampa Bay History Center has memorabilia relating to the early Jewish community of Tampa. Included in the collection is the

24 £ laborers were present in Ybor City- many in cigar-related establishments. Jews were part of the migration that followed cigar manufacturer Vicente Martinez Ybor from Key West in 1886. In addition to working in the cigar shops and factories, they opened stores and businesses that served the diverse community such as Isadore Kaunitz's dry goods business in 1891 and Adam Katz's 1892 department store, the largest in Ybor City at that time.

By 1920 there were more than 30 Jewish business owners in Ybor City, including grocers, clothiers, dry goods merchants, jewelers, cigar manufacturers and cigar box makers. Louis Wohl, restaurant designer and supplier, owned an entire block on 6th Avenue. Isadore Kaunitz built Ybor City's first brick building in 1894. Max Argintar came to Ybor City in 1903 and opened his own

store. His building still bears his name. Edward Steinberg arrived in Tampa in 1892 and opened a clothing firm while working with two Jewish organizations to assist other immigrants. David Stein opened his furniture store in Ybor City in 1917 and had his own building con-

structed in 1920. Jewish merchant J. M. Buchman was proprietor of a dry goods store. The Buchman family owned and operated businesses in Ybor City from the early 1900s to the 1980s.

For more sites and information on sterling silver trowel that was used Glogowski is credited with bringing the Ybor City Walking Tour, visit by Mayor Herman Glogowski at the sidewalks and electric lights to the Florida Jewish Heritage Trail groundbreaking ceremonies for the downtown Tampa. Others buried website at: http://www.flheritage.com/ historic Tampa Bay Hotel, now the here include Henry Brash, an early magazine/jht University of Tampa. On permanent mayor of Marianna; his wife, Sarah display is Nellye Israelson Zelnicker Brash, a founder of the Standard Cigar Corporation Friedman's Women's Air Corps National Council of Jewish Women's 2701 North 16th Street 33605-2616 uniform from World War II. Tampa chapter; Ben Brown, postmas- (813) 248-2124 ter of Bartow; and his wife Ricka Standard Cigar was founded by Woodlawn Cemetery Maas Brown. Stanford and Millard Newman. In 3508-3612 North Ola Avenue 33603 the 1960s, the company claimed to (813) 837-1911 or 876-2377 Ybor City Walking Tour produce 70 million cigars per year. Tampa's first Jewish cemetery was (map on page 29) Another Jewish-owned cigar busi- founded in 1894. Among those Since the early days of wooden ness, Regensburg & Company, buried here are Herman Glogowski, sidewalks and gaslights, Jewish opened a factory here in 1911. This is mayor of Tampa from 1882 to 1892. merchants, manufacturers and now the working factory of J.D.

25 J Newman Cigar Company, renamed became a barrister. In 1925 the Judah 7th Streets. In 1958 the congregation for the Newman patriarch, Julius. P. Benjamin Daughters of the Con- acquired the land at its present The building has been enlarged and federacy turned the Gamble planta- location and erected an educational rehabilitated over the years. tion into a memorial and deeded the building. Groundbreaking for the plantation to the State of Florida in synagogue took place in 1972. Inside, Young Men's Hebrew Association 1926. A small museum in a separate a portion of the MOSAIC: Jewish (YMHA) Life building includes a portrait of in Florida traveling exhibit relates the 2105 Nebraska Avenue 33602 Benjamin's wife and a saber he history of the Sarasota Jewish Originally this building housed the presented to a captain for aiding in community. German-American Club, founded in his escape. 1901 to promote German culture. Its Temple Beth Shalom Cemetery early membership included Jews as 3715 Circus Boulevard 34232 well as Christians. Herman Sarasota County (941) 955-8121 Glogowski was its first president. The city of Sarasota donated land for YMHA acquired the building in 1924 Sarasota the cemetery to the Jewish commu- and remained here until 1944. At nity. The earliest burial dates from Edwards Theater (Sarasota Opera that time, the three-story building 1932. At the cemetery's entrance is a House) 61 North Pineapple Avenue contained a ballroom, auditorium plaque honoring the founders. 34236-5723 (941) 366-8450 and stage, bowling alleys and Among them are Philip H. Levy, who Roy A. Benjamin, a Jewish architect meeting rooms. The Young Men's arrived in Sarasota in 1913 and who, particularly renowned for his theater Hebrew Association was the forerun- with his wife, operated Cecelia Levy designs, designed this restored 1926 ner of the Jewish Community Center. & Company women's clothing store. Mediterranean Revival style theater. Another founder, Joe Idelson, The building included shops, apart- established the Sarasota Department ments, and a 1,500-seat auditorium. Manatee County Store on Main Street in the 1920s. Temple Beth Shalom (Conservative) Cattle rancher Simon Rosin, mayor Ellenton 1050 South Tuttle Avenue 34237- of Arcadia, is buried in the cemetery,

Gamble Mansion and Judah P. 8199 (941) 955-8121 as is his son, Marcus Aurel Rosin, a Benjamin Confederate Memorial Before 1925, Jewish worship services Sarasota city attorney and president State Historic Site were held in the home of Philip and of the Florida State Elks Association 3708 Patten Avenue 34222 Cecelia Levy. In 1925, a congregation from 1949-1950. 723-4536 called the Jewish Community Center US 301 East (941) Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall In 1865, this site became the of Sarasota was founded. The first May 777 North Tamiami Trail 34236-4047 hiding place for Jewish Confederate Yom Kippur services were held on (941) 953-3366 Secretary of State P. Benjamin. the second floor of the Tyler Building Judah Lewis and Eugenia Van Wezel, a stayed in a second-floor bedroom on 3rd Street. The congregation's first He prominent Jewish couple of Sarasota, with a balcony that provided a good synagogue (1928) was built on devoted themselves to Sarasota's lookout for Union troops. From here property donated by the city on civic improvement. The distinctive Washington Avenue between 6th and he escaped to England where he purple-colored building that bears their name was designed by follow- ers of Frank Lloyd Wright and opened in 1970. Among its displayed

sculptures is The Chase of the Sea Urchin by Jewish sculptor Frank Eliscu of Siesta Key, who also designed the Presidential Eagle in the White House Oval Office and football's Heisman Trophy.

Edwards Theater (Sarasota Opera House) Cape Coral Historical Society

Cape Coral DeSoto County Schlossberg-Graystone Building, 23-25 West Magnolia Street; Cape Coral Historical Society 544 Cultural Park Boulevard 33990- Arcadia Schlossberg Building, 41-47 West Magnolia Street. 1212 (941) 772-7037 Simon Rosin Arcade The historical society occupies the 101 West Oak Street 34226 pro shop built by Leonard and Jack Jewish cattleman Simon Rosin came Lee County Rosen for their Cape Coral Golf and to Arcadia in 1905 and the next year Tennis Resort. The Rosens founded opened the Boston Store, which Fort Myers Cape Coral in 1957 and developed it occupied the Oak Street frontage. He Fort Myers Historical Museum as a "drawing-board city." Today built this arcade in 1927, allowing the 2300 Peck Street 33901 Cape Coral ranks behind Jacksonville city's post office to be accessed (941) 332-5955 as the state's second largest city in through the arcade entrances. Rosin Fort Myers named for Colonel was terms of area. The historical society's also served as mayor of Arcadia in C. Myers by his Abraham command- collection includes photographs, 1919 and established a 4,500-acre ing officer and future father-in-law, archives, and artifacts detailing the cattle ranch. General David E. Twiggs. Myers was Cape Coral building phases. It a great-grandson of Moses Cohen, Schlossberg Building (Schlossberg includes a large selection of promo- who served as the first rabbi in Camp Building) tional memorabilia created by the Charleston, South Carolina. A 1-19 West Magnolia Street 34226 Rosens for their city. graduate of West Point, Myers was M. Schlossberg, known only by his chief quartermaster for Florida Original Houses and Yacht Club first initial, was a prominent busi- troops during the Second Seminole Driftwood Parkway, between Lenox nessman who lived in Arcadia by War and was stationed at Fort Court and Flamingo Drive 33990 1915. He owned Schlossberg's Brooke, located in what is now A plaque erected by the Cape Coral Department Store (a five-and-dime) downtown Tampa. Myers later Historical Society on the road and built a row of businesses along served as quartermaster for the leading to the Yacht Club directs the south side of West Oak Street Confederacy. Myers and Twiggs' visitors to Cape Coral's eight original between Monroe and Orange Av- daughter Marion were married in houses. The Rosens gave a Yacht enues. He built this colorful building 1853. A wall display at the museum Club membership to everyone who in the late 1920s for the Plaza Hotel. relates their story. bought a house in Cape Coral. The downtown historic district also Another marker-a large bronze includes: plaque on a pedestal-is located in front of City Hall (815 Nicholas Parkway). Pictures of Jack and Leonard Rosen hang inside City Hall.

27 i J Timeline Of Some Significant Dates In Florida Jewish History

1565 Conversos may have been The Jewish population in Florida is his store was the earliest Jewish- members of the Spanish population estimated to be 100. owned in Ft. Lauderdale. of St. Augustine. Conversos were 1857 In Jacksonville, a Jewish cem- 1933 David Sholtz of Daytona Beach new Christians who had been forced etery is established. That same year, is elected Governor of Florida. to convert by the Inquisition. George Dzialynski is the first [docu- 1941 Ellis Zacharias of Jacksonville, 1763 Documented Jewish history mented] Jewish boy born in Florida. Chief of Naval Intelligence, helps begins in Florida, in Pensacola, when 1876 Temple Beth El of Pensacola break the Japanese code leading to Spain relinquished Florida to Britain becomes the first Jewish congrega- the U.S. victory in the Pacific during and Jews were allowed to own land tion in Florida. World War II. and live in Florida.

1879 Henry Brash elected Mayor of 1950 The Jewish population is 1821 Moses Elias Levy arrives in Marianna is the first known Florida estimated to be 70,000. In 1959 Central Florida to start a plantation Jewish mayor of a list now including approximately 10,000 Cuban Jews as a Jewish colony and becomes a more than 100 Jewish mayors find freedom in South Florida. founder of Micanopy. Samuel and throughout the state. (See page 42 for Louisa Myers arrive in Pensacola 1968 Marshall W. Nirenberg of List of Jewish Mayors in Florida.) where he practices law, helps orga- Orlando is awarded the Nobel Prize nize the local militia, and serves on 1890 Jewish population in Florida in Medicine and Physiology for his the city council. The next year, will reach 2,500 during this decade. part in breaking the generic code. Louisa Myers has a daughter, the 1893 Jews begin to settle in 1974 Third-generation Floridian, first documented Jewish birth in the Southeast Florida, following Henry Richard Stone, is elected United state. Flagler's new railroad. States Senator from Florida. 1836 West Point graduate Abraham 1916 Max Lehrman had married 1990 MOSAIC, Jewish Life in Florida C. Myers serves as quartermaster Rose Seitlin in Miami in 1913 and traveling exhibit opens as the first during the Seminole Indian Wars. settled in Ft. Lauderdale with his comprehensive overview of the The city of Fort Myers bears his family as Broward County's first Florida Jewish experience since 1763. name. known Jews. Their four children Gwen Margolis is the first woman 1845 Florida becomes the 27th state were the first known born in Dade president of the Florida Senate. in the Union; David Levy Yulee, a County and in Broward County and 1995 JEWISH MUSEUM OF signer of the state's first constitution, FLORIDA opens. Florida's Jewish is elected as a United States Senator. population is about 800,000 by 2000.

JEWISH MUSEUM David Sholtz OF FL Opens 1995 Elected Governor 1933 — Richard Stone — David Levy Yulee 1 Conversos Elected Senator i 565 — Elected Senator 1974 1845 Temple Beth El Moses Elias Levy Pensacola, 1876 1821

George Ellis Zacharias MOSAIC 1763 Jewish Abraham — Dzialynski Breaks Code, 1941 J Opens/ — Land Owners born 1857 Margolis Myers 1 836 Marshall Nirenberg Gwen Hero Seminole Wars Awarded Nobel Prize1968 Pres. of Florida Senate, 1990 Henry Brash Jews Settle Elected, 1879. — SE Florida, 1893 )

(1)- Rodeph Sholom Synagogue (29) - Russells Ladies Wear (Russell & Jean (57) - Philip Weissman Clothing Bernheim) (2) - Knesses Yisroale Synagogue (58) - Louie's Department Store (Soloman (30) - David Kasriel Dept. Store /The Jewel Simovitz & Sons) (3) - (Meyer) Kisler Pharmacy Box (Buddy Levine; then Dave Kartt) (59) - Buchman's Department Store & Royal (4) - YMHA (31) - Louis Wohl Household Supplies /The Palm Window Shades (Jacob Buchman - American Pipe & Plumbing (Irv & Roy (5) Palace (Louis & Mark Shine) Family) Salsbury) (32) - Max (& Sam) Argintar Mens Wear (60) - Martin's Uniforms (Spicola) (6) - House of a Million Auto Parts (Phil - Rophies Linens - Red Globe Store (Joseph Weissman) Grubstein & George Ichil) (33) (61) Martin Uniforms (Howard & Irving (34) - Joseph Kasriels Ladies Dept. Store - Milchman Deli (7) Kosher Weissman) (35) - Louis Wohl & Sons Restaurant Supply (8) - William Bass Scrap Metals (62) - Royal Palm Window Shades/ Martin's (36) - Weber Ladies Uniform Dress Mfg. (9) - Grocery (front) Printing (rear) (Julius Uniforms Silverman) (37) - United Shoe Store (Leon Woolfe) (63) - Leader Dry Goods & Notions (Toba (10) - Finman Kosher Market (38) - Ida's Ladies Ready to Wear (Max & Ida Margolis & Daughter Cecelia) Goodrich) The Palace (11)- Elozory Furniture Store Milchman Watch & Jewelry Repair

(39) - Economy Ladies Wear (Oscar Poller) - Globe Store / Restaurant (12) - Blue Ribbon Supermarket (Bobo (64) Red A & Z Supply (Anton Zack) Families) (40) - Rippa Ladies Wear (Bob Rippa's &

Grandfather) - (13)- Tick /Reznick Bags & Drums (65) Julius & Fannie Buckman Store

- Haber's Ladies Wear (Bob Rippa's - (14)- (2nd Ybor Post Office) Hallmark (41) (66) Sam Hartzman (2nd Hand Suits) Grandfather) Emblems (Klein, Weissmans, etc.) (67) - Weissman Clothing Store; then to (42) - David Stein Furniture Co. Martins Uniforms (15) - West Coast Army Store (became

Fremacs Mens Wear) (Fred & Mack (43) - Abe Wolfson Mens Wear (68) - Charles Haimovitz Mens Store (Barney Perlman and Sam, Alex, & Milton Haimes' Father) (44) - Pollers Ladies Wear (Nathan Poller) Bokor) (69) - The Leader Clothing Store (Hyman (45) - Wolfson's Trimming Store (Adam - (Max) Star Grocery (16) Wolfson & Son, William) Golden) (17) - Max Argintar Pawn & Clothing/ (70) - Corona Brush Co. (Gregory & David (46) - Modern Home Furnishings (Louis Martin's Uniforms Buchman & Son "Booky") Waksman) (18) - Adam Katz Family Clothing (Harry (71)- Louis Markovitz Clothing (47) - Manuel Aronovitz Store Wilderman) (72) - Ozias Meerovitz Mens Store (48) - Herman Aronovitz Clothing Store/ (19) - Liberty Mens Store (Abe Herscovitz) (Buddy) Arnold's Shoes & Art Supply (73) - Tampa Typewriter Service (Martin (20) - Curtis Gimpel, Office Machines Haas) (49) - Dayan Linens (Victor Dayan)

(21) - Dr. I. Einbinder, Dentist (upstairs) - Southern Iron & Bag (Louis Gordon) (50) - Dayan Linens (Nissam Day) (74)

(22) - Blue Ribbon Supermarket (75) - Peretzman Scrap Iron & Metal (51 - Little Katz Fabrics (Fannie Katz & (23) - Isadore Davis Department Store nephew Irving) Edwards Childrens (76) - Zack Restaurant Supply Store (Morris Weisman & Son, Edward) (24) - Rophies Mens Wear (77) - Hillsborough Plumbing Supply (52) - Steinberg's (William & Bootsie Oster) (25) - Adorable Hat Store (Tillye Simovitz/ Waltzer/Freedman) (53) - Ike Weiss Department Store /Sunshine (78) - Anton Restaurant Supply Department Store/ Manuel Leibovitz & (26) - Rainbow Mens Wear (Abe & Sam (79) - (Leo) Chardkoff Bag Co. Verkauf) Sons (80) - A & Z Restaurant Supply (54) - Milton Schwartz Tire Co. (27) - Isadore Segall Ladies Wear (81) - West Coast Salvage & Iron (Sidney (55) - Sunshine Department Store (28) - Isadore Segall Ladies Wear Bernstein) (56) - Philip Weissman Clothing (82) - West Coast Salvage & Iron (Sidney Bernstein)

29 . . - .

Florida Jewish Heritage Trail Sites

Northwest Florida 35. Young Men's Hebrew Association - 61. Moses Clock and Park - page 18 page 13 Pensacola Maitland St. Augustine 62. Holocaust Memorial and Resource 1 Lewis Bear Block - page 5 36. Congregation Sons of Israel - page 13 Education Center - page 19 2. Temple Beth El (Reform) - page 5 37. Congregation Sons of Israel Cemetery 3. Beth El Cemetery - page 5 Orlando page 13 63. Berman House - page 19 4. B'nai Israel Synagogue - page 5

5. Miss Gerty Goldschmidt's Boarding 1 1 louse- page 5 Pensacolat 6. North Hill Preservation District - page 5

7. Progress Club - page 6 Apalachicola

8. Henry Brash House - page 6

Port St. Joe 9. Constitution Convention State Museum - Port St. Joe page 6 Apalachicola ^1 Archer jBr^ QUINCY 38. Train Depot, Archer Comm. Museum - 10. Former Packing House - page 6 page 13 64. Dr. P. Phillips' Original Home - 11 Hillcrest Cemetery, Jewish Section - 39. Cottonwood Plantation - page 13 page 19 page 6 65. Mennello Museum of American Folk Art - - Gainesville 12. Max Wedeles House page 6 page 20 40. Gainesville Walking Tour - page 13 13. Weinberg Tobacco Company - page 6 66. Ohev Shalom Cemetery - page 20 41. Masonic Temple - page 14 Tallahassee 67. Three Former Synagogues - pages 20, 21 42. Jewish Cemetery - page 14 14. Florida Photographic Collection - page 7 43. Matheson Historical Center - page 14 Lakeland 15. Jewish Cemetery - page 7 68. Munn Historic District - page 21 44. University of Florida Sites - pages 14, 15 - 16. Robert Manning Strozier Library page 8 69. Marble Arcade Building - page 21

- Micanopy 17. Temple Israel (Reform) page 8 70. Nathan and Leonard Wolf Citrus Groves - 45. Benjamin Building - page 15 18. Alfred Wahnish Tobacco Warehouse & page 21 - - Historical Society Cigar Factory page 8 46. Micanopy Museum 71. Original Temple Emanuel (Conservative) page 16 - page 21 MONTICELLO 72. Temple Emanuel 19. Simon House - page 9 Palatka St. Peterst - 21 47. Calhoun House - page 16 (Conservative) page

Live Oak 73. Stores - page 21 48. Loeb House - page 16 Wolfson's Famous 20. Howard Street Merchants - page 9 74. Wolfson's Store - 22 49. Jacobson House - page 16 Drug page Cedar Key 50. Lilienthal House - page 16 Sebring 21. Cedar Key Historical Society Museum - 51. Meyer House - page 16 75. Kahn's Department Store - page 22 page 9 76. Jewish Section, Sebring Municipal 22. Cedar Key State Museum - page 9 Central and Central East Cemetery - page 22 23. The Island Hotel - page 9 Florida Stuart Northeast Florida Ocala 77. Old Martin County Court House - 52. Marcus Frank House - page 17 Fernandina Beach page 22 53. Rheinauer & Brothers First Store - 24. Amelia Isl. Museum of History - page 10 page 17 Central West and Southwest 25. Nassau County Courthouse - page 10 54. United Hebrews of Ocala Cemetery Florida 26. Yulee - page 10 page 17 HOMOSASSA - Jacksonville 55. United Hebrews of Ocala Temple 78. Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins State Historic Site

page 17 - 27. Old City Cemetery - page 1 and Park page 23 28. Cohen Brothers Store - page 11 Daytona Beach Clearwater 29. Florida Theatre - page 11 56. Beach Street Retailers - page 17 79. Holocaust Memorial at Temple B'nai

- 30. Jacksonville Jewish Center - page 11 57. Thelma Schlossberg Room - page 17 Israel (Reform) page 23 80. Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park, Jewish 31. Ahavath Chesed and B'nai Israel Cocoa Section - page 23 Cemeteries - page 12 58. Rubin Brothers Dept. Store - page 17 32. River Garden Hebrew Home/Wolfson St. Petersburg Health and Aging Center - page 12 Sanford 81 Florida Holocaust Museum - page 23 59. Jewish Center of Sanford - page 18 33. Workmen's Circle Branch #441 - page 12 82. Maas Brothers Dept. Store - page 23 60. Manuel Jacobson's Department Store - 34. LaVilla Neighborhood - page 12 page 18

M) .

83. Temple Beth El (Reform) - page 24 Tampa Hollywood

85. Jewish Merchants of Franklin Street - 113. Morse Arcade - page 34 Plant City page 24 84. Wishnatzki and Nathel Srawberries - Pompano Beach 86. Maas Brothers - page 24 page 24 114. Moe's Pompano Pharmacy - page 34 87. Daisy G. Waterman Lighthouse for the Blind - page 24 Miami 115. Beth David Congregation - page 35 88. Schaarai Zedek (Reform) - page 24

116. City of Miami Cemetery - page 35 89. Tampa Bay History Center - page 24 117. Cromer-Cassel Dept. Store - page 35 Amelia Island 90. Woodlawn Cemetery - page 25 118. Mt. Nebo Cemetery - page 36 91 Ybor City Walking Tour - pgs 25 & 29 119. Temple Israel of Greater Miami (Reform) - 92. Standard Cigar Corporation - page 25 Jacksonville page 36 93. Young Men's Hebrew Assn. - page 26 120. WTVJ/ Capitol Theater - page 36 Ellenton Miami Beach 94. Gamble Mansion and Judah P. Benjamin St. Augustine 121. Blackstone Hotel - page 37 Confederate Memorial State Historic Site - page 26 122. Congregation Beth Jacob - page 37

123. Rabbi Alexander S. Gross Hebrew - Sarasota Academy of Greater Miami- page 37 95. Edwards Theater - page 26 124. Holocaust Memorial - page 37 96. Temple Beth Shalom (Conservative) - 125. Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant - Dayton a page 26 page 37 126. Henri Levy Park and Fountain - page 37 97. Temple Beth Shalom Cemetery - page 26 127. Mt. Sinai Medical Center - page 37 98. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall - page 26 128. Temple Beth Shmuel Cuban Hebrew Congregation of Miami (Conservative) Arcadia - page 38 99. Simon Rosin Arcade - page 27 129. Temple Moses Sephardic Congregation of 100. Schlossberg Building - page 27 Florida (Orthodox) - page 38 Fort Myers 130. Temple Emanu-El of Greater Miami (Conservative) - page 38 101. Fort Myers Hist. Museum - page 27 131. Rose Weiss Park - page 38 Cape Coral 132. Wolfie's Deli - page 39 102. Cape Coral Historical Society - page 27 Key West 75&76^ 103. Original Houses and Yacht Club - 133. Jewish Merchants on Duval Street - page 27 page 40 99&100 Southeast Florida 134. Appel's Department Store - page 40 135. Appelrouth Lane - page 40 Belle Glade 136. Audubon House and Gardens - page 40 104. Temple Beth Shalom - page 32 137. B'nai Zion Congregation - page 40

Boca Raton 138. City Cemetery, Jewish Section - page 40 1014- Boca Ra 105. Boca Raton Resort & Club - page 32 ti03h 104-1091 106. Molly S. Fraiberg Judaica Collections (FAU) - page 33 El. Lauderdale 107. Temple Beth El (Reform) - page 33 Museums of West Palm Beach 108. Temple Israel (Reform) - Miami Beach page 33

109. Clematis Street Merchants - Bass Museum - Page 39 page 33 The Wolfsonian (FIU) - Cooper City Page 39 110. American Legion Post 312 - page 34 Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA: Fort Lauderdale Home of MOSAIC - Page 39 111. B'nai Israel Section, Evergreen Cemetery - •' page 34 133-138^- 112. Sterling's Men and Boys Store - page 34 KeyWest

. & Max Hutkin Southeast Florida

Max Hutkin was "Mr. Boca Raton"- so named for his many civic contributions. Hutkin was born in 1895, the son of Polish- Jewish immigrants who settled in St. Louis. In 1919 Hutkin Florence Brown arrived in 1931, married Russian-born Nettie Palm Beach followed by his sister and brother-in- Brown, also of St. Louis. In 1936 law, Nettie and Max Hutkin, in 1936. they moved to the small town County of Boca Raton. There they Boca Raton Resort & Club Belle Glade rented a building on the Old 501 East Camino Real 33432-6127 Temple Beth Shalom Dixie Highway for $5 a month, (561) 395-3000 224 Northwest Avenue G 33430 hung a sign in the window, and Originally this was the Cloister Inn, 996-3886 opened Hutkin's Food Market. (561) an exclusive, restricted resort built in Twenty-three Jewish families living The Hutkins and a few of 1926 and designed by Addison in the "Glades"-an area of Belle Nettie's relatives are believed to Mizner. In the 1940s, hotel magnate J. Glade, Pahokee, and Clewiston-built be the only Jews living in Boca Myer Schine, who owned other this one-room synagogue in 1954. Raton until after World War II. resort hotels such as the Roney Plaza Max Hutkin participated in the on Miami Beach and the Ritz-Carlton civic life of his adopted town Boca Raton Hotel of Atlantic City, bought the with great enthusiasm. He was Boca Raton's Jewish population is resort. Schine had been a penniless a volunteer firefighter for 14 nearly 50 percent-the highest per- immigrant from Latvia. In Boca

years, Red Cross Disaster centage of any city in Florida. This Raton, J. Myer and his wife, chairman for 25 years, and the growth occurred slowly after World Hildegarde, sponsored art exhibits at first chair of Boca Raton's War II and represents a phenomenal the resort. Hildegarde became an Community Relations Board. increase that started with the two organizer of the Art Guild, which is He also co-founded the Cham- Jewish families known to have lived now the Boca Raton Museum of Art. ber of Commerce, organized the in the city before the war. Harry and town's first Boy Scout Troop, and founded and served as president of the local Lions Club. In 1967 Hutkin helped organize Temple Beth El, the first Jewish congregation in Boca Raton, and served as an early president. Hutkin became a frequent speaker at ground breakings and dedications. "I stuck my finger into everything that needed it," he said in an interview in 1983 at age 88.

"That's how I became Mr. Boca

Raton. I made Boca Raton my hobby." Hutkin died in 1987.

32 to worship on her campus. Accord- ing to congregational lore, Catholic The S.S. St. Louis nuns at one time outnumbered Jewish worshippers at the services. The congregation's first bar mitzvah On May 13, 1939, four months was held at the next site-a Moravian before Hitler invaded Poland, the church at the corner of Palmetto Park luxury liner S.S. St. Louis sailed fl Road and 12th Avenue. In the 1970s, from Hamburg, Germany bound the now-named Temple Beth El built for Cuba with 936 Jewish passen-

this synagogue and expanded it in gers aboard. All the Jewish passen- 1986. The membership is now 2,000 gers believed they had visas to families, one of the largest Reform enter Cuba. They had paid the congregations in the nation. Cuban consulate in Germany Molly S. Freiberg Judaica Collections, inflated fees for worthless visas iberly Library, Boca Raton West Palm Beach and landing permits. Two weeks later, the ship arrived in the Temple Israel (Reform) when Molly S. Fraiberg Judaica Collec- 1901 North Flagler Drive 33407 port of Havana, disembarkation tions, S. E. Wimberly Library, was denied. For days, fierce but (561) 833-8421 Florida Atlantic University unsuccessful negotiations were This was the first Jewish congrega- 777 Glades Road 33431-0992 held while the ship lingered near tion in Palm Beach County. Eight (561) 297-3787 or (561) 297-3742 Cuba. The ship was forced to sail families founded it as Beth Israel in This Judaica library is one of the north, following the Florida 1923. The next year, the congregation largest in the southeastern United coastline. Florida residents and moved into a synagogue at 2020 States. A permanent exhibit features visitors waited in hopeful anticipa- Broward, where it remained until Isaac Bashevis Singer's writing desk, tion. 4, the ship passed 1951 when the congregation, now On June chairs, and lamp. In addition, the Miami heading north and then known as Temple Israel, moved to library has the 1978 Nobel Prize turned south again, where it was Flagler Drive, its current location. Laureate in Literature's walking met by a much larger ship. It was Among the founders of Beth Israel cane, Panama hat, personal photo- U.S. Coast Guard Cutter 244 from was Joseph Mandel, who served as graphs, hundreds of his books and Fort Lauderdale, sent to thwart the mayor of West Palm Beach in 1923 other personal artifacts, some of movements of the S.S. St. Louis. and 1924. Another founder was Max which come from his Florida resi- protestors massed Sirkin, a produce farmer who arrived On June 5, dence. During his later years, Singer along the beaches south of Las in 1896 and became the first Jewish lived in Surfside where Isaac Olas Boulevard near the Coast settler in West Palm Beach. The Bashevis Singer Boulevard (95th Guard Base. The cutter stood by present sanctuary is tentlike with Street) was named for him. A new the St. Louis it stained glass windows of various S.S. as moved permanent exhibit of miniature scale slowly down the coast and pre- shapes, sizes, and depths set into models by Albert Barry is based on vented refugees from jumping off thick walls. The ark doors are a the wooden synagogues of Poland. and swimming ashore. The S.S. St stylized tree of life with frosted and Appointments are preferred, but Louis then anchored off clear glass, allowing worshippers to Miami limited drop-in hours are available. Beach. 7, a protest glimpse the Torahs even with the On June mass Call for details. took place in Miami's Bayfront doors closed. The ark itself has floor- Park. The protesters' voices went Temple Beth El (Reform) to-ceiling side windows that bathe it unheeded. Later that day, the S.S. 333 Southwest 4th Avenue 33432 in perpetual light. St. Louis, with a low reserve of (561) 391-8900 Clematis Street Merchants food and water, returned to Temple Beth El, the first Jewish Now the city's lively main business Germany. Of the 936 Jewish congregation in South Palm Beach street, this street was where early passengers, approximately County, had ecumenical beginnings. 30 were Jewish settlers opened retail stores. allowed to enter Belgium, France, The congregation was founded as the By the early 1920s, retail stores Great Britain, and the Netherlands. Boca Raton Hebrew Congregation in included Joseph Schulpler's hat The remainder returned to Ger- 1967 through the encouragement of a store, Cy Argintar's Men's Shop and many. Only one-fourth of the total Roman Catholic nun. Mother de la Toby and Selma Myers' luggage Jewish passengers, an estimated Croix, president of Marymount business (at 210 Clematis). Another 240, survived the Holocaust. few College, now Lynn University, A Clematis Street business, Pioneer of these survivors reside in Florida. invited the dozen founding families Linen (329 Clematis), evolved from

33 & ,\n earlv Lake Worth hardware with a Cooper City flag at Mt. Nebo and Esther Sandler who owned a

busim !SS founded in 1912 by Max Cemetery in Miami. The city re- wholesale produce business; and the

c Ireenberg. named 90th Avenue Morris Cooper Nankin, Newman, Robbins, and Drive in his honor. Sterling families, all of whom owned and operated popular clothing and Broward County Fort Lauderdale shoe stores downtown from the B'nai Israel Section, Evergreen 1920s and the 1930s. Cooper City Cemetery, 1300 Southeast 10th Sterling's Men and Boys Store American Legion Post 312 Avenue 33315 (954) 527-0227 (Now the Florida Department of 9081 Southwest 50th Street 33328 Established in the 1926, Jewish Environmental Protection) 218 (954) 434-0965 cemetery section is marked by a Southwest 1st Avenue 33301 Morris Cooper's rags-to-riches story white bearing the archway words Isadore "Pop" A. Sterling ran Fort is a metaphor for the immigrant B'nai Israel (Children of Israel). Lauderdale's first Sterling Store, experience in America. This Legion Members of the Fort Lauderdale founded in 1935, in a converted built land donated, Post was on he Hebrew Congregation dedicated it in garage on Andrews Avenue. By the and a plaque honoring Morris and 1935 and later renamed it Temple early 1940s, he operated Sterling's Clara Cooper is in front. The Rus- Emanu-El. Many of the congregation's Men's and Boys Store at this site. Pop sian-born Cooper arrived in the founders are buried here. They became a town legend, widely United States in 1908 with one suit include Katz, believed to have Moe known for his generosity and civic and pocket change. He went to work received the first state-issued real participation. in a shirt factory, saving 50 cents a estate license; his brother Mack, week from his $4 salary. Within four whose Mack's Ladies' Shop was Hollywood years Cooper owned the Imperial reputed to be the first women's Morse Arcade Shirt Company, a New Jersey com- clothing store in town; and Mack's 1926 Hollywood Boulevard 33030- pany that grew to nine plants wife, Sadye, who helped spearhead 4532 producing 720,000 shirts per week. building campaigns for Fort Hollywood's first Jewish services Cooper began visiting Florida and Lauderdale's War Memorial Audito- were held in this 1926 arcade, which buying citrus groves. In 1958 Cooper rium and Holy Cross Hospital. Also is one of the city's oldest commercial sold the shirt company, retired to buried here are Abe Markowitz, who buildings. The Jewish Community Florida, and set about creating his resisted pressure to change his Center of Hollywood, chartered in dream city. By the time he died in Markowitz Plumbing sign to some- 1942, met in a rear storefront. Today 1975 at the age of 82, Cooper City thing less Jewish sounding; Louis the Conservative congregation is was thriving. Cooper was buried known as Temple Sinai of Holly- wood and is located at 1440 North 46th Avenue.

Pompano Beach Pompano Beach is the home of one of the oldest Jewish communities in Broward County. The first congregation, the Pompano Beach Jewish Circle, today Temple Sholom, began in 1945.

Moe's Pompano Pharmacy 45 Northeast 1st Street 33060 Abraham and Lena Hirshman came to Pompano Beach in the late 1920s and opened the Bon Ton Department Store, the first Jewish-owned business in town, at 31 Northeast 1st Street. Abe's younger brother, Morris, his wife Goldie and their daughter joined them in 1934. Morris established his first pharmacy at this i - ($ a . '< M !H* Isidor Cohen

Temple Israel of Greater Miami permanent Jewish settler, and a signatory to the city's charter. Born in Russia in 1870, Cohen emi- location. He later built a store at 60 some 3,000-year-old antiquities, a grated to New York with his Northeast 1st Street, which is still 17th-century Persian Torah, and two family in 1883. Eight years later he known as the Pompano Pharmacy. bas-reliefs by Kenneth Treister, moved to Savannah, Georgia, designer of the Holocaust Memorial where he worked as a store clerk on Miami Beach. Dade County and became a U.S. citizen. In 1896 City of Miami Cemetery he moved to Miami where he opened a dry goods store. Miami 1800 Northeast 2nd Avenue 33132 (305) 358-9572 Beth David Congregation Cohen battled a freeze in 1895, a This public cemetery dates from (Conservative) fire in 1896 that wiped out his 1897. The walled-in Jewish section 2625 Southwest 3rd Avenue 33129 entire stock, and a siege of yellow (Block 41) was founded in 1915. The (305) 854-3911 fever in 1899. By Cohen's account, last Jewish burial was held in 1964 Greater Miami's first Jewish congre- only three Jews resided in Miami but most of the graves date from the gation was founded in 1912 as B'nai in 1900, including himself and 1920s and 1930s. Temple Israel, Zion, named for its founder, Morris Jacob and Ida Schneidman. The located across the street, and the Zion. Max Lehrman arrived in other early arrivals had fled to Dade Heritage Trust work together Florida in 1905 and married Rose safer places. In 1905 Cohen married to preserve the cemetery. Seitlin in 1913. Their wedding, the the widowed Ida Schneidman. He first recorded Jewish marriage in Cromer-Cassel Department Store organized the Merchants Associa- Greater Miami, took place at the (Metromall) 1 Northeast 1st Street tion of Miami and was its presi- home of Morris Zion. Their first 33132-2433 (305) 373-5004 dent from 1902 to 1906. He also baby, Nell, born in 1914, is believed Daniel Cromer, a Jewish immigrant served as president of the Dade to be the first Jewish girl born in from Scotland, came to Miami in County Fair Association in 1908 Miami. In 1916 they moved to Fort 1913 and purchased a store from his and president of the Miami Board Lauderdale, the year Rose gave birth brother-in-law David Afremow. of Trade in 1912. In 1921, Cohen 15- to Sarah, who is believed to be the Cromer and his partner, Irwin M. was elected to the city's first Jewish baby born in Fort Lau- Cassel, sold merchandise ranging member board that wrote the derdale. In 1916 the congregation from straight pins to motor boats. In Miami City Charter. Cohen was was renamed Beth David to honor 1926, they built a new store full of the one of the organizers of B'nai Zion David Afremow, a department store most modern of conveniences. Congregation (later called Beth owner who donated $5,000 to the Cromer-Cassel's $5.25 million David) founded in 1912 as the first congregation. In 1949 Beth David department store opened to much Jewish congregation in Miami. Isidor in moved to its present location. Inside, fanfare on May 28, 1926. The festivi- Cohen died 1951. the Beck Museum of Judaica features ties began at 6 p.m. when Herbert

35 Hoover, then U.S. Secretary of Commerce, pressed a button in Washington, D.C. that, via Western Union, unlocked the store's main entrance. The nine-story building

featured escalators between the first

and third floors, perhaps a first for Miami. Twenty-foot ceilings and Circassian walnut paneling graced the main floor. Upper floors were detailed in gray oak and mahogany. The store was severely damaged by the 1926 hurricane and was further crippled by the Depression. Unable to recover, Cromer-Cassel closed in the early 1930s. Today the building Miami Beach (Art Deco) houses the Metromall. Architectural District Mt. Nebo Cemetery 5505 Northwest 3rd Street 33126 (305) 261-7612 In use since the 1940s, this cemetery

is the oldest stand-alone Jewish Miami Beach's famed Architectural Henry Hohauser (1895-1963) was a cemetery in Dade County. its District contains the largest collec- leading architect of the Art Deco Among thousands of gravesites are those for tion of 1930s Art Deco and Art style, and examples of his work can Isidor Cohen, recognized as the first Moderne buildings in the nation. be seen throughout the district. The permanent Jewish resident of Miami; The square-mile district is bounded Cardozo Hotel (1300 Ocean Drive) Morris Cooper, founder of Cooper by 5th Street to 23rd Street, Lenox was designed by Hohauser in 1939 City; and Meyer Lansky, a known Avenue to Ocean Drive. A Jewish and is considered one of the best member of organized crime. woman, Barbara Baer Capitman examples of the Streamline influ- (1920-1990), launched the campaign ence in Art Deco design. The hotel Temple Israel of Greater Miami that established the district and was named for a Jewish Justice of (Reform) saved the architectural gems of the Supreme Court, Benjamin 137 Northeast 19th Street 33132 South Beach. Through her efforts, Cardozo. (305) 573-5900 South Beach became the first 20th- Temple Israel, the first Reform and Other buildings designed by century district in the National second-oldest Jewish congregation in Hohauser on Ocean Drive include Register of Historic Places. Tenth Miami, was founded in 1922 and the Park Central Hotel north of 6th Street has been renamed Barbara moved here in 1928. The synagogue Street; the Colony Hotel, between Baer Capitman Street to honor her complex is highly regarded for its 7th and 8th Streets; and the Edison memory. architecture. The Nathan and Sophie at 10th Street. Hohauser was also Gumenick Chapel, dedicated in 1969, Another Jew, designer Leonard the architect of Congregation Beth was designed by congregant Ken- Horowitz (1954-1989), transformed Jacob's second synagogue that now neth Treister. Temple Israel also has approximately 150 buildings in the houses the Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH gardens that are adorned with plants district with his "Deco Dazzle," MUSEUM OF FLORIDA, at 301 mentioned in the Bible. applying bright colors to buildings Washington Avenue. that were originally white with WTVJ/Capitol Theater limited color trim. The Beacon 316 North Miami Avenue 33128-1800 Hotel on Ocean Drive between 7th (305) 379-6666 and 8th Streets is an example of The Capitol Theater opened in 1926 Horowitz's creativity. Eleventh as the first of the Wometco Theater Street has been renamed Leonard chain, a company founded by

Horowitz Place in his honor. Mitchell Wolfson, Sr., and his brother-in-law, Sidney Meyer. In 1949, the Capitol was converted into the studios of WTVJ, Florida's first

6 TV station. Wolfson, son of Key West Mall, and the Fountainbleau and restaurant on the site where it pioneers, was the first Jewish mayor Eden Roc Hotels (Miami Beach). remains today. of Miami Beach. Holocaust Memorial Henri Levy Park and Fountain 1933-45 Meridian Avenue 33139 71st and Bay Drive Miami Beach (305) 538-1663 This recently restored fountain was Blackstone Hotel Designed by Kenneth Treister and named in memory of French-born 800-808 33139- Washington Avenue dedicated in February 1990, the Henri Levy, developer of the 0800 bronze hand, reaching 50 feet sky- Normandy Isle and Surfside commu- Stone built the Blackstone Nathan ward and bearing life-size men, nities in the 1920s. His real estate Hotel in 1930. It provided a place for women, and children, is visible from ventures had to be north of any to stay at a time "Re- Jews when blocks away. Visitors can closely properties once owned by Carl stricted Clientele" signs were preva- view 130 life-size figures, cast in Fisher, whose restrictive covenants lent elsewhere along the Beach. In bronze, in the garden and park. against Jewish ownership re- 1954, under the management of mained in effect on Miami Nathan's son Alfred, the hotel broke Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant Beach until after World War the color barrier by hosting a black 227 Biscayne Street 33132 Baptist convention. Richard Stone, (305) 673-0365 Alfred's son, served as Florida's This is considered to be Mt. Sinai Medical Secretary of State (1972-1974) and Miami Beach's oldest Center U.S. Senator (1974-1980). Jewish-owned business. 4300 Alton Road It is also one of the most 33140-2800 Congregation Beth Jacob famous. Joe and Jennie Weiss (305) 865-4422 (Orthodox) arrived in 1913 and ran a snack ' The imposing 311 Washington Avenue, 33139 (305) bar and bath house. In 1917, they Mount Sinai Medi- 672-6150 moved to the south tip of the cal Center is the Beth Jacob was the first Jewish Beach and opened their own largest employer in congregation founded on Miami Beach (1927) and is its oldest syna-

gogue (1929). It was located well south of 5th Street, the northernmost boundary of where Jews were allowed to settle. In 1936, the congregation built a larger synagogue at 301 Washington Avenue and used the first building as a social hall. How- ever, changing population patterns on the Beach and declining congregation membership forced Beth Jacob to retrench and, in 1986, return to the original building. In 1994, this larger building was leased to the Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA, which restored the building.

Rabbi Alexander S. Gross Hebrew Academy of Greater Miami 2400 Pine Tree Drive 33140 (305) 532-6421 The first Jewish day school in the Southeast began with six students in 1946; now there are over 500. This site was designed by Morris Lapidus whose commissions include Temple Judea (Coral Gables), Temple Beth El (St. Petersburg), the Lincoln Road Miami Beach. The hospital was Temple Emanu-El of Greater Miami hi Wolfson Family of founded after World War II for (Conservative)

I AMI Jewish doctors who were denied staff 1701 Washington Avenue 33139 One of the most prominent Jewish privileges in other Dade County (305) 538-2503 families in Florida is the Wolfson facilities. The current campus is Founded on Miami Beach in 1938 as family of Miami and Key West. located at the hospital's original site, Congregation Jacob Joseph, then as [oseph Wolfson of Russia arrived which, ironically, had once been a the Miami Beach Community Center, in Key West in 1884 and was soon restricted hotel where Jewish guests the name was changed to Temple joined by his brother, Louis, who were not welcomed. Emanu-El in 1954. The building dates wed Rosa Gruner and fathered a from 1949. The dome is designed in Temple Beth Shmuel Cuban son, Mitchell, in 1900. The family the Byzantine style and departs from Hebrew Congregation of Miami relocated to Miami where Mitchell the Art Deco style commonly found (Conservative) joined his father in business. In in Miami Beach during this period. 1700 Michigan Avenue 33139 L 1 >24, Mitchell and his brother-in- (305) 534-5143 Rose Weiss Park law, Sidney Meyer, formed the Approximately 10,000 Jews left Cuba Northeast corner of Second Street Wolfson-Meyer Theater Company, during the anti-Castro exodus, most and Washington Avenue 33139 soon to be known as Wometco settling in the Miami-Dade area. It The park was dedicated in 1975 to Theaters, Inc. Wometco would was these Cuban Jewish exiles who the memory of the woman who was expand from a single theater to a in 1961 founded this congregation, called the Mother of Miami Beach. chain of theaters and, in 1949, one of two that were designed by the From the time Rose ("Rosie") Weiss became the first television station ^ Cuban-born Jewish brothers-Oscar moved to Miami Beach in 1919 to her in Florida, WTVJ/ Channel 4/ and Isaac Sklar. Caves near the death in 1972, she tended to the Miami. Wolfson served as the first Western Wall in Jerusalem inspired welfare of every group on the Beach, Jewish mayor of Miami Beach in Oscar Sklar's ultramodern design for especially the children. She saw to it 1939. During World War II, the sanctuary. The Temple Beth that no schoolchild went without Mitchell earned the rank of Shmuel Cuban Hebrew congregation lunch, and, in the aftermath of the Lieutenant Colonel. Colonel is Ashkenazic and Conservative; the 1926 hurricane, organized milk Wolfson and his wife, Frances, of other congregation, the Temple deliveries to families with young Pensacola, restored the Audubon Moses Sephardic Congregation of children. Rosie attended every city House in Key West in 1960, Florida, is Orthodox and Sephardic. council meeting for 38 years, de- sparking the historic preservation Services are held in both English and signed Miami Beach's official flag, movement in Key West. Frances Hebrew, but congregants are often fought prejudice, and sold $1 million Wolfson was an artist of consider- addressed in Yiddish and Spanish, able talent and received world- their languages of choice. wide recognition for her Chinese- style paintings. Through her Temple Moses Sephardic Congrega- efforts, a scholarship fund was tion of Florida (Orthodox) established to aid art students. 1200 Normandy Drive 33141 Her daughter, Frances Louise, for (305) 861-6308 whom the building for the School Sermons are delivered in Spanish at of Communication at the Univer- this Cuban-Sephardic congregation.

sity of Miami is named, has Dedicated in 1980, the synagogue is a continued her efforts. The Colonel copy of a synagogue in Havana that and Frances had two sons, Louis was abandoned by Jews fleeing

Wolfson, II, and Mitchell Wolfson, Castro. Outside, at the corner of

Jr., and a daughter, Frances Louise Main and Vichy, a plaque commemo- Waxenberg. rates the 850th birthday of Jewish philosopher and Torah expert, Moses Louis served in the Florida Maimonides in 1985. To the south is a legislature from 1963 to 1972. diminutive street called Maimonides Mitchell, Jr. amassed a collection Plaza. The library in this Sephardic of American decorative art, congregation includes books in numbering over 70,000 items, Spanish and Hebrew. which served as the impetus for the creation of the Wolfsonian Museum in Miami Beach.

IS dollars worth of bonds during World

War II, more than anyone else in the state. She once claimed to have founded "every organization we have on the Beach." That included Beth Jacob, the first Jewish congregation, which was planned at meetings in her home. She also convinced the city to set aside the land to create the park that they later renamed for her.

Wolfie's Deli 2038 Collins Avenue 33139-1914 (305) 538-6626 Wolfie Cohen came to Florida in 1932. In 1947, he opened the original Wolfie's at this site, the first of seven restaurants on the beaches. The deli has been the site of numerous political rallies and kick-off campaigns through the years, becoming a tradition with Miami-Dade County politicians. The deli has had continu- president of a Wall Street company Vienna. Also featured are imprints by ous Jewish owners: Wolfie Cohen, and was a leader in the sugar indus- Jewish members of the Bauhaus, and 1947-1953; Edwin Lassman, 1953- try. He never wavered in his love for woodcuts and etchings by American 1984; and Joseph and David Nevel, music. He was a composer and a Jewish artists. The book collection 1984-present. It still serves its origi- member of chamber music groups. includes Hebrew poetry from nal chicken soup recipe that made it He also was a writer, painter, photog- Argentina; a Hebrew typography famous. Wolfie Cohen served on the rapher, etcher and an art collector. catalog published in Berlin in 1924; a Miami Beach City Council from 1959 His wife, Joanna Bass, was a poet, children's book in Yiddish; and a to 1963. pianist, and decorator. 1920s book published in Palestine with poetry and silhouettes of early The Wolfsonian, Florida Museums of Miami Beach kibbutzniks. Bass Museum International University 1001 Washington Avenue 33139 Sanford L. Ziff 2121 Park Avenue 33139-1756 JEWISH MUSEUM (305) 531-1001 OF FLORIDA: of (305) 673-7530 Home MOSAIC Mitchell Wolfson, Jr. founded the 301 Washington Avenue 33139 Jews have had a great impact on the Wolfsonian museum in 1986 to (305) 672-5044 cultural life of Miami Beach. In 1963 showcase his own collection of more www.jewishmuseum.com John and Johanna Bass donated their than 70,000 objects from the late 19th The only museum dedicated to art collection to the city of Miami to the mid-20th centuries with Florida's Jewish experience from Beach. The city-owned Bass Museum emphasis on furniture and the 1763 to the present opened in 1995. is renowned for its paintings by Peter decorative and propaganda arts. The The Museum is housed in Ira Giller's Paul Rubens and Albrecht Dxirer, for collection also included paintings, award-winning restoration of an Art its 16th-century Flemish tapestries, rare books, prints, and ephemera. In Deco synagogue designed by Henry and for its modern lithographs by 1997, Wolfson donated the collection Hohauser in 1936. Especially Fernand Leger and Henri Toulouse- note- to the State of Florida and the worthy are its 80 stained glass Lautrec. The collection also includes Wolfsonian became part of Florida windows, a marble bimah, Art images by Florida photographers Deco International University. Valued at chandeliers and sconces, and a Andy Sweet, Jewel Stern, and Marcia $80 million, this is considered to be Moorish copper dome. The Walkenstein, whose represented Museum the largest gift ever made to a state features a Collections and Research work includes scenes of Jewish life university in Florida and the fifth Center, the core exhibit MOSAIC: on the Beach. John Bass, a Viennese largest to a public university nation- Jewish Life in Florida, changing Jew, came to New York in 1914 with wide. Included are items of Jewish exhibits and a Jewish history dreams of becoming a pianist. interest, including prewar Jewish timeline. It also offers guided tours, Instead he went to work as an errand pop-up greeting cards printed in films, a store and public programs. boy on Wall Street. In time he became Germany and postcards printed in Researchers will find an extensive

39 collection of photos, documents, Audubon House and Gardens artifacts and audiotaped histories. 205 Whitehead Street 33040-6832 The Museum is an outgrowth of the (305) 294-2116 MOSAIC project, a grassroots effort Louis Wolfson arrived in Key West in initiated in 1984 to find and exhibit 1902, and opened his Store of Fash- material evidence of the Jewish ion on Duval Street. In 1958 Mitchell

experience in Florida. This statewide Wolfson, Sr., one-time mayor of project involved the participation of Miami Beach and native of Key West, thousands of Floridians. The travel- bought a dilapidated house belonging MOSAIC exhibit was shown in 11 ing to an old sea captain and con-

Florida cities, Washington, D.C., and verted it into a public showcase for Philadelphia from 1990 through 1994. John James Audubon's life and work. The Mitchell Wolfson Family Foun- The Wolkowsky Family dation still owns this house. Monroe County B'nai Zion Congregation Abraham Wolkowsky (1862-1932) Key West 528 Simonton Street 33040-6832 arrived in Key West from Ruma- (305) 296-5739 Key West, once a port of entry for nia in 1885. He began as a peddler In 1907, B'nai Zion bought this immigrants to the United States, was but soon opened a clothing store, a wood-frame home-office from Dr. one of the first places Jews settled in change he may have made as a John B. H. Maloney and converted it Florida before 1900. A large number result of the city council's "anti- into a synagogue. Founded in 1887, of these Jewish settlers were from peddler" tax. Wolkowsky married B'nai Zion was an amalgamation of Rumania. Among the earliest Jewish Rebecca Lewinsky, a member of several small congregations. Until it arrivals were Joseph Wolfson, who another early Key West Jewish bought this building, the congrega- stayed in Key West after being family. Their sons were Isaac and tion met above Louis Fine's store. shipwrecked in 1884; Abraham Frank. The house at 1309 White- The congregation remained on Wolkowsky, who came in 1885; and head Street, built in 1890, is an Simonton Street until 1969 when the David L. Rippa who arrived in 1888. early home of Abraham and current synagogue was built at 750 Rebecca Wolkowsky Their home Jewish Merchants on Duval Street United Street. at 407 South Street, where the Many of the first Jewish settlers in City Cemetery, Jewish Section Key West began as peddlers. In 1891, family lived in the 1910s, is at the Windsor Lane 33040-6832 southern end of Whitehead Street. the Key West City Council passed an (305) 296-5739 It is only one of 200 Key West anti-immigrant, anti-peddler annual Founded as a city cemetery in 1865, buildings which David Wolkowsky tax of $1,000 per cart. As a result, the Jewish section has graves from has restored since 1962, making many of the Jewish peddlers set the 1880s. Among the early Jewish him a respected leader in aside their carts and opened stores, Key pioneers buried here are Berman and West's preservation effort. David many on Duval Street. Some of their Rose Weintraub, who operated a Wolkowsky's Captain Tony's stores and stories include: successful grocery business in 1900 Saloon at 428 Greene Street was Appel's Department Store 928-930 and assisted fellow Rumanian known formerly as Sloppy Joe's, Duval Street, 33040 settlers. Also buried here are becoming famous as an Ernest Rubin and Lily Appel came to Key Abraham and Annie Einhorn, Hemingway hangout. In 1968, West from Russia in 1904. He was initially helped by the Weintraubs, Wolkowsky built the Pier House related to the Appelrouths but who later operated the Big Door Resort and Caribbean Spa over- changed his name to Appel. This Grocery. Also at this site is the grave looking the Gulf near Duval store remained in business until the of Joe Pearlman, one of the pioneers Street. Herman Wolkowsky, a 1990s. of Duval Street, who was president nephew of Abraham, the owned of the congregation for 25 years. Wolkowsky Store at the southeast Appelrouth Lane 400 Block of Others are Jacob Markowitz, Isadore corner of Southern and Duval Duval Street 33040 Appelrouth, Rubin and Lillie Appel, The street was formerly known as Streets. Bom in Rumania in 1890, Theodore and Elka Holtsberg, and to Key West in 1913, Smith Lane and was renamed for a Herman came brothers Jake and David Aronovitz married, and opened a furniture Jewish shoe merchant who came to and their wives, both named Celia. store At the age of 25, he served Key West around 1900. His store was All had settled in Key West by the as president of Key West's B'nai at 604 Duval Street. early 1900s. Zion congregation.

W ^ JEWS IN PUBLIC OFFICE

Federal - Legislative W. Effman, House, 98th District, 89th District, 1998-present; Gerald David Levy Yulee, Territorial Del- 1996-present; George Firestone, Lewis, House, Dade, District 96, egate, 1841-45; Senator, 1845-51, House, Dade District, 1966; 110th 1966; 1967-70; Senate, 43rd District, 1855-61; Richard Stone, Senator, District, 1967; 92nd District, 1968-72; 1970-72; Assistant State Attorney, 1974-80; William Lehman, Represen- Senate, 36th District, 1972-78; Bill Dade County, 1973; Assistant County tative, District 13, 1972-92; Larry Fleece, House, Pinellas, 1966; 53rd Attorney, Dade County, 1974; Fred Smith, Representative, District 16, District 1967-72; Howard Forman, Lippman, House, 94th District, 1978- 1983-92; Peter Deutsch, Representa- Senate, 32nd District, 1988-present; 82; House, 97th District, 1982-92; tive, District 20, 1992-present; Robert Marcus Frank, House, Marion House, 100th District, 1992-97; Gwen Wexler, Representative, District 19, County District, 1939, 1949; Lois Margolis, House, 102nd District, 1996-present. Frankel, House, 85th District, 1986- 1974-80; Senate, 37th District, 1980- present; Michael Friedman, House, 92; President 1990-92; Ken Myers, State Executive 102nd District, 1980-82; House, 103rd House, Dade District, 1966-67; District, 1982-92; Steven Geller, House, 94th District, 1967-68; Senate, David Sholtz, Governor, 1933-37; House, 98th District, 1988-1992; 45th District, 1968-72; 37th District, George Firestone, Secretary of State, House, 101st District, 1992-97; Ron 1972-80; Norman Ostrau, House, 1979-1987; Richard Stone, Secretary Glickman, House, 66th District, 1986- 96th District, 1986-92; Steve Press, of State, 1972-74; Robert Shevin, 92; House, 57th District, 1992-94; House, 86th District, 1982-92; Barry Attorney General, 1971-79; Gerald Elaine Gordon, House, 98th and Richard, House, 112th District, 1974- Lewis, Comptroller, 1975-95 (longest 102nd Districts, 1972-94; Speaker Pro 78; Stacy Ritter, House, 96th service of an elected officer in J. Tempore 1984-92; Jack D. Gordon, District, 1996-present; Irma Rochlin, Florida). Senate, 35th District, 1972-92; Presi- House, 98th District, 1984-88; Burt L. Florida Supreme Court dent Pro Tempore, 1983-84; Kenneth Saunders, House, 76th District, 1994- Gottlieb, House, 1998-present; 97; Robert Shevin, House, Dade Arthur England, Jr., 1975-81, served J. Ronald Greenstein, House, 95th District, 1964-66; Senate, 43rd Dis- as Chief Justice; Raymond Ehrlich, District, 1998-present; Susan Guber, trict, 1966-70; David Sholtz, House, 1981-91; served as Chief Justice; House, 117th District, 1986-92; Tom Volusia, 1917-19; Barry Silver, House, Gerald Kogan, 1987-98; served as Gustafson, House, 88th District, 89th District, 1996-97; Ron Silver, Chief Justice; Barbara Pariente, 1997- 1976-82; 94th District, 1982-90; Al House, 103rd District, 1978-82; present. Gutman, House, 105th District, 1984- House, 100th District, 1982-92; 92; Senate, 34th District, 1992-98; Senate, 48th District, 1992- 2002; State Legislature Marshall Harris, House, Dade, 1966; House Majority Leader and Majority Mike Abrams, House, 101st District, 108th District, 1967-72; 112th District, Whip; Art Simon, House, 116th 1982-92; 105th District, 1992-94; Alan 1972-74; Sally A. Heyman, House, District, 1982-94; Larry Smith, House, Becker, House, 103rd District, 1972- 105th District, 1994-present; Richard 96th District, 1978-82; Eleanor Sobel, 78; Elaine Bloom, House, 100th Hodes, House, 68th District, 1966-82; House, House, 100th District, 1998- District, 1974-78; 104th District, 1986- Speaker Pro Tempore, 1979-80, present; Richard Stone, Senate, 48th 92; 106th District, 1992-2000; Speaker House Majority Leader 1981-82; District, 1967-70; Jack Tobin, House, Pro-Tempore, 1992-97; Helen Gordon Suzanne Jacobs, House, 88th District, 88th District, 1982-92; House, 95th Davis, House, 70th District, 1974-82; 1992-present; A.O. Kanner, House, District, 1982-97; Debbie Wasserman- 64th District, 1982-88; Senate, 23rd Martin District, 1927-36; Senate, 33rd Schultz, House, 97th District, 1992- District, 1988-92; Peter Deutsch, District, 1936-41; Ron Klein, House, present; Peter Weinstein, Senate, 29th House, 90th District, 1983-92; Murray 89th District, 1992-95; Senate, 28th District, 1982-92; Senate, 33rd Dis-

H. Dubbin, House, District 96, 1963, District, 1996-present; Barry Kutun, trict, 1992-96; Majority Leader, 65, 66; House, 95th District, 1967-72; House, 99th District, 1972-82; 104th Deputy Majority Leader; Sonny House, 115th District, 1972-74; Steven District, 1982-85; Curt Levine, House, Weinstein, House, St. Johns, 1955,

41 ,

1957; Eleanor Weinstock, House, 79th W. Goldner, St. Peterburg, 1961-67, Harbor Islands, 1973-74; Morris District, 1978-82; House, 83rd Dis- 1971-73; Stanley G. Goldsmith, Bay Silverman, Florida City, 1932-38; trict, L982-86; Senate, 26th District, Harbor, 1982-84, 1991-92; Adolph Arthur Snyder, North Miami Beach, 1986-92; Sherman Winn, House, Greenhut, Pensacola, 1913-16; Irving 1950s or 1960s; Gilbert B. Stein, 105th District, 1970-72; Senate, 34th Greenhut, Pensacola, 1965; Ron Hallandale, 1989-90; Estelle Stern, Bal District, 1972-82; President Pro- Greenstein, Coconut Creek*; Evelyn Harbour, 1989-90; Charles Sussman,

c rempore l >76-78; Louis Wolfson II, Greer, Pine Crest*; Dr. Louis Haas, Hillsboro Beach*; Stanley G. Tate, Dade District, 1963-65; House, 93rd Bay Harbor Islands, 1975-76; Dr. Bay Harbor Islands, 1973-74; Edward District, 1967; 111th District, 1968-72; Leonard Haber, Miami Beach, 1977- M. Tavlin, Bay Harbor Islands, 1993-

I eo Wotitzky, House, Charlotte, 1939, 79; C. J. Heinberg, Gulf Breeze, 1961- 95; Herb Tobin, Golden Beach, 1982- 41,43, 45, 47, 49; Nathan 62, 1968-70; Andrew R. Hirschl, Bal 90; Harold Turk, Miami Beach, 1949- Zelmenovitz, House, Okeechobee, Harbour, 1999-present; Fred 51; Sam A. Wahnish, Tallahassee, 1953,55,57. Holtsberg, Ft. Pierce, 1936-37; Royal 1939-41; Samuel B. Waterman, Flagg Jonas, North Bay Village, 1952- Hallandale, 1985-87; Jerome Weiner, Cities and Towns - Mayors 54; David Kaminsky, Lauderhill, Dade City, 1966; Dr. Milton Weinkle, Norman Abramowitz, Tamarac, 1984-88; Irving Kanarek, Stuart, 1954, Hallandale, 1972; Sherman Winn, 1988-92, 1994-96; Maynard Abrams, 1956; Neisen O. Kasdin, Miami North Miami, 1965-69; Mitchell Hollywood, 1966-69; Abe Aronovitz, Beach, 1997-present; Hymen Lake, Wolfson, Miami Beach, 1943; A. Hart Miami, 1953-55; Joseph Gardner, Bay North Bay Village, 1954-56; Hal Wurzburg, Longboat Key, 1989-90; 1998- Harbor Islands, 1979-82; Max L. Bear, Lenobel, Longboat Key, Max Wyner, Kelsey City, 1920-22. present; Pensacola, 1937; Joe Berkheim, Marcie Liberman, Miami I Gainesville*; Gene Berkowitz, Beach, 1947-49; Ilene Lieberman, Tallahassee, 1968; Anne Bernstein, Lauderhill, 1990; Bernard Lilienthal, Date(s) of term unknown. Palm Shores, 1990-96; Jack Block, Palatka Heights, 1880s; Eli M. Lurie, South Miami, 1968-84; Henry Brash, Surfside, 1972-74; Joseph Mendel, Marianna, 1879-82; Shepard Broad, West Palm Beach, 1923-24; Judge Bay Harbor Islands, 1947-72; Irving Murray Meyerson, Miami Beach, Buchalter, Sunset Beach, 1947-50; 1979-81; Louis Nathan, Miami Norman Ciment, Miami Beach, 1981- Shores, 1930; Theodore R. Nelson, 83; David Cohen, Sarasota, 1960, Bay Harbor, 1976-78; Kenneth Oka, 1964-66; Judy Cuenca, Golden Beach, Miami Beach, 1957-59, 1961-63; Lou 1995-present; Michael Davis, Ann Palmer, Sarasota, 1984-85, 1989- DeLand, 1890s; Jay Dermer, Miami 90; Dan Pearl, Sunrise, 1989-93; Beach, 1967-71; Robert Drohlich, Walter S. Pesetsky, North Miami Longboat Key, 1995-96; Morris A. Beach, 1975-77; Irving Peskoe, Dzialynski, Jacksonville, 1881-83; Homestead, 1981-86; Harold Raben, Steven Effman, Sunrise, 1993-96; Belle Glade, 1949-50; Morris Samuel Feinberg, Dunnellon, 1917; Rabinowitz, Graceville, 1961; Charles Robert Farber, Longboat Key, 1994- Rheinhauer, Ocala, 1906; Melvin 1963-65; Carol 95; Alice Reiter-Feld, Lauderhill*; Richard, Miami Beach, Sidney Fischer, Cocoa Beach, 1956-60; Roberts, West Palm Beach, 1985-86; Roberts, South Herman Fishbein, St. Petersburg, Margot M. Palm 1969; Michael Fishel, Ocala, 1900-2; Beach, 1990s; Leo Rose, Jr., Surfside, Sandy Freedman, Tampa, 1987-95; 1954-56; Harold Rosen, Miami Beach, William Freidman, Dade City, 1932- 1971, 1974-75; Harry Rosen, Miramar, 1975-79; Arthur Rosenberg, 33; Nathan Friedland, Melbourne, J. 1965-68; Malcolm H. Fromberg, Hallandale, 1981-83, 1987-89; Simon Miami Beach, 1983-85; Edgar Rosin, Arcadia, 1919; Seymour Roth, "Buddy" Galvin, Hallandale, 1971- Indian Harbour Shores, 1985-86; Fort Pierce, 1957-58; 72; Seymour Gelber, Miami Beach, Bernard Rubin, 1991-97; Marilyn Gerber, Coconut Philip Rubin, Crystal River, 1932; Ruvin, Village, k*; Mara Giulianti, Hollywood, Harvey North Bay 1968-72; Schreiber, 1997- 19S6- present; Joseph Glickstein, Sr., Joe Tamarac, Neptune Beach, 1930s; Herman present; Harold Shapiro, Miami Beach, 1953-55; Martin Shapiro, Bay ( ilogowski, Tampa, 1886-93; I [erman

42 Credits Cohen; Phil Denton; Tony Buscemi; Jaffe; Sue Rosin; Helen Weinfeld; Dr. Paul S. George; Peg McCall; J. Rabbi Merle Singer; Evelyn Blum; N. David Cook; Janice S. Mahaffey; David Korones; Belle Marcus; Natalie Glickstein Haas; Arthur Fixel; Greenberg; Walter Levy; We gratefully acknowledge the George Jack Wittenstein; Rabbi Stanley Einhorn; Margie Schechtman; support and guidance of the Florida Joe Garfein; Ann Schops; Bernard Marilyn Benjamin; Jerry Kass; Bunny Jewish Heritage Trail Advisory Kouchel; George Ben- Katz; Miriam Zatinsky; Robert Committee: Marcia Zerivitz, Miami, Jack Napp; jamin; Sheri Lagin, M.D.; Singerman; Elliott Zerivitz. Chairperson; Dr. Samuel Proctor, J. Jon Lyons; Charles Fleishman; Ruth Gainesville; JuDee Pettijohn, Talla- Thanks to the staff of the Florida Kahn Davis; Howard Margol; hassee; Kathleen Slesnick, Lake Park; Department of State, Division of Richard Sapon-White; Stella Oritt; Rusty Ennemoser, Tallahassee; Doris Historical Resources for editorial and Steve Bragin and Gena Waterman Rosenblatt, Tampa; Irene Kogan, production assistance: Catherine Bragin; Rose Edith Jacobson; Irene Tallahassee and Miami; Barbara Clark, Vicki Cole, Rusty Ennemoser, Reidich; Roz Spak; Doris Pepper Rosenblum, Clearwater; and Dolly Frederick Gaske, Bill Helmich, Katz; Zelda Berman Gross; Claire Williams, Tampa. Allison Herrington, Susanne Hunt, Becker Rosenberg; Ricka Hart; Betty Barbara Mattick, Bob McNeil, JuDee Hundreds of people and organiza- Ann Leider; Helen Landers; Barbara Pettijohn, George Percy, Carl Shiver, tions contributed to this publication. A. Poleo; Rachel Garrick; Wendy Kathleen Slesnick, Julie Weiler, and Special thanks to Rachel B. Blazier; Sherry Piland; Alicia Clark; Michael Zimny. Heimovics, freelance writer, Francis Luca; Lisa Auel; Sharon Maitland, and Marcia Zerivitz, Coffee; Tom Muir; Marilyn Mennello; Founding Executive Director of the Mary Lou Tucker; Jodi M. Rubin; Ziff JEWISH MUSEUM OF Don Weber; Howard Melton; Pam FLORIDA, Miami Beach. This book Kay; Mrs. Willie Haas; Connie would not have been possible Crane; Carmen Smyth; Betty without their dedication and perse- Williamson; Wayne Godwin; George verance to the creation of the Trail. Chapel; Stanley Mulford; Cathy Brown; Robert Rosen; Dr. Jerrell H. Special thanks go to the following Maier Goldberg; individuals who assisted Ms. Shofner; Harry Kahn; Marsha Pollack; Philip Selber; Heimovics and Ms. Zerivitz in their Beverly Kaiman; Rhoda and Leonard efforts: Ron Kurtz; Harold J. Belcher; Wilfred Wolfson; Canter Brown, Ph.D.; Rodney Dillon; Wolf; Henry Carol Juchau; Chris Monaco; Diana Weinberg, Jr.; Stanley Malever; Don Downey; Leonard Dobrow; Arthur

43 ^ Glossary, Holidays, and Observances

Ark - centerpiece of Jewish worship, Kibbutzniks - someone who lives on a Shochet - someone certified by rabbis a cabinet that holds one or more kibbutz. to butcher meat according to the To rah scrolls. kosher laws. Landsmen - someone who comes Ashkenazic - referring to Jews and from the same town in the old Shul - Yiddish word for synagogue. descendants of Jews who originated country. Sukkah - a booth decorated with in Central and Eastern Europe and to Minyan - a group composed of at fruits and vegetables, with a roof the rituals and folk customs associ- least ten worshippers, the requisite open to the stars, attended during ated with them. number of men for orthodox ser- the harvest festival of Sukkot; a Bar or Bat Mitzvah - "son or daughter vices, or ten men and women for reminder of the temporary shelters of the commandment" coming-of- nonorthodox services. built by the ancient Hebrews during age ritual, traditionally at the age of their wanderings in the wilderness. Orthodox Judaism - branch of 13 for boys and 12 or 13 for girls. Judaism that observes the religious Sukkot - harvest holiday (15 Tishrei) Bishola - Sephardic naming ceremony practices and traditions of Judaism in (September or October). for girls at least one month old. the strictest sense. Simchat Torah - "celebration of the Brit Milah (or Bris) - "covenant of Passover (Pesach) - Festival of Torah" (22 or 23 Tishrei) (September circumcision" observed on the eighth Freedom and Redemption that or October).

day of a male baby's life. commemorates the Exodus of the Synagogue - a building or place used Hebrew slaves from Egypt nearly Chanukah - Festival of Freedom that by Jews for worship but also for 3,300 years ago (15 Nisan) (March or commemorates the victory of Judah study and assembly. April). the Maccabee over the Syrian King Tisha B'Av - observance of the Antiochus (24 Kislev) (November or Pit rim - Festival of Freedom that destruction of the Temple (9 Av) (July December). commemorates the rescue of Persian or August). Jewry through the intervention of Conservative Judaism - branch of Queen Esther in the 5th century Torah - refers to the first five books of Judaism, founded in the early 20th B.C.E. (14 Adar) (February or March). the Bible, the books of Moses, and to century, that is less traditional than the scroll on which is written those Orthodox Judaism but more tradi- Reform Judaism - branch of Judaism, five books; the Torah scroll being the tional than Reform Judaism. founded in the 19th century that has holiest object in Jewish worship. the most modernized religious Chevra Kadisha - a benevolent organi- practices. Tu B'Shevat - New Year for Trees (15 zation that observes the laws and Shevat) (January or February). customs of Jewish burial. Rosh Hashanah - the Jewish New Year

(1 Tishrei) (September or October). Tzedakah - the Jewish obligation to Havdalah - ceremony marking the help the less fortunate. end of Shabbat. Sephardic - referring to Jews and descendants of Jews who originated Yiddish - German-based language of Israel's Independence Day - (5 lyar) in Spain and Portugal and to the the Ashkenazic Jews, written with (March or April). rituals and folk customs associated Hebrew letters, including Slavic and Kaddish - an ancient Jewish prayer with them. other European influences.

that is recited at various times and Shabbat - the Sabbath, the holiest YMHA - Young Men's Hebrew for various purposes, including by time in Jewish life, begins with the Association, usually the precursor to mourners and by those observing the lighting of candles at sunset Friday the Jewish Community Center. anniversary of a close relative's evening and concludes with the death. Yom Hashoah - Holocaust Day (27 Havdalah ceremony, Saturday Nisan) (April). Kashered - the ritual process of evening at sunset. making food, food implements, and Yom Kippur - the Day of Atonement. Shavuot - celebrates the receiving of serving pieces kosher. After Shabbat, Yom Kippur is the the Torah on Mt. Sinai (6 Sivan) (May holiest day in the Jewish year, Kibbutz - a collective farm in Israel. or June). observed by prayer and total fasting (10 Tishrei) (September or October).

44 Watch with Hebrew numerals owned by George Dzialynski of Jacksonville, first documented Jewish male born in Florida in 1857; from the Collection of the Sanford L. Ziff JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA

A Special Thank You

Our deepest appreciation to the Samuel M. Soref and Helene K. Soref Foundation and the Galbut and Menin Families for their generous contributions to the printing of this publication. < V

9 I

'* Florida Jewish Heritage Trail

Florida Department of State

Katherine Harris

Secretary of State

Division of Historical Resources

R.A. Gray Building

500 South Bronough Street

Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0250

(800) 847-7278

http://www.flheritage.com/magazine/jht

ISBN l-flflT030-20-l 90000 >

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