Supporting Local Jewish History and Stories

The support from JHF to the Filson Historical Society has resulted in the creation of the Jewish Community Archives (JCA) and the Community History Fellows Program (CHFP).  Established in 2017, the JCA seeks to archive significant records from the Jewish community, including the Jewish Community of Louisville (JCL), Jewish Hospital, and collections from many individuals, businesses, and other community organizations.  Notably, this work with the broader community has resulted in the creation of the Jewish Community Archive Endowment to support the long-term continuation of the JCA at the Filson.

The Community History Fellows Program started in the spring of 2022 and brought in an initial cohort of 6 history advocates from diverse backgrounds and parts of Louisville to explore topics and tools in historical research, documentation, and interpretation. Fellows used these methods in real-time by developing individual history projects of enduring value to their home communities. Projects include a study on the historical intersections of land usage in Louisville and the Jewish Community and a project looking at Congregation Adath Jeshurun’s participation in Black-centered pushes for social justice.  A second cohort began in April 2023.