Adah Isaacs Menken. Photo: American Jewish Historical Society.
She flew on fake horses above the stage, wore nude bodysuits so audiences would think she was naked, married four men (and divorced three)—and was surrounded by rumors of affairs with dozens of famous writers. Actress Adah Menken (1835-1868) was one of the first international celebrities, due more to her daring exploits and shrewd publicity…
Out of the Archives: Serendipity
by Kevin Schlottmann, Archival Services Manager, Center for Jewish History
Today is International Cat Day. This morning, one of our archival fellows was processing a collection from the Leo Baeck Institute, when she came across a diary/sketchbook. Inside she discovered a small glassine envelope containing little white chips. Upon closer inspection, the chips turned…
Poster from the Union of Councils for Soviet Jews Records: “Mr. Gorbachev, before you talk arms, let’s talk bodies.” For the march and rally for Soviet Jews Pre-Summit, December 6, 1987. American Jewish Historical Society.
Thanks to generous support from the National Historical Publications & Records Commission (NHPRC),…
Great news! The Center for Jewish History now provides full access to the world’s largest online collaborative family tree, Geni.com, free of charge. Courtesy of the Geni Public Access program, users logging in to Geni.com on-site at the Center for Jewish History can take advantage of the website’s Pro features, including full access to their database of family trees and family…