Crossing the Ocean: Three Waves of German Jewish Immigration to the United States Exhibition Opening

On April 7, 2024 at 5:30PM EST, LBI will open the second exhibit in the Katherine and Clifford H. Goldsmith Gallery this year, Crossing the Ocean: Three Waves of German Jewish Immigration to the United States. Based on personal accounts from the LBI Archives, this exhibition explores how the experience of German-speaking Jews coming to America changed between the 1840s and 1950s. It emphasizes the often-marginalized aspect of the migration history, the decision-making, and crossing the ocean in the search for a better life. While showing various aspects of the immigration process and practicalities, the exhibition focuses on the role of transnational contacts between past and prospective immigrants. The strength of one's contacts in the United States could make or break an immigration attempt. The story encompasses three waves of immigration: the 19th century, 1933–1941, and post-World War II. In the year of the 100th Anniversary of the Immigration Act of 1924, which virtually stopped mass immigration to the United States for two generations, immigration, particularly refugees, is still an acute problem of world affairs.

The exhibit will officially open during the symposium Reconsidering Jewish Migration to the United States: A Century of Controversy, organized by the Center for Jewish History on April 7, 2024.  

Please note that this event will be held in person at the Center for Jewish History. The reception will include wine, cheese, and crackers and remarks from LBI's Executive Director, Dr. Markus Krah.