Book & Bottle Lecture: ‘The Jews of Long Island: 1705-1918’ with Author Brad Kolodny

Join author Brad Kolodny at the Suffolk County Historical Society for an enlightening lecture on the history of Jewish communities on Long Island. The event, titled ‘The Jews of Long Island: 1705-1918’, will take place on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 6 p.m.

Kolodny, who is also the president and founder of the Jewish Historical Society of Long Island, will share the intriguing story of how Jewish communities were established and developed east of New York City, from Great Neck to Greenport and Cedarhurst to Sag Harbor. His narrative will include the stories of peddlers, farmers, and factory workers struggling to make a living, as well as successful merchants and even wealthy industrialists like the Guggenheims.

Kolodny spent six years researching how, when, and why Jewish families settled and thrived on Long Island. His talk will be backed by archival material, including census records, newspaper accounts, never-before-published photos, and personal family histories, which illuminate Jewish life and experiences during these formative years.

His book, ‘The Jews of Long Island’, features over 4,400 names of people who lived in Nassau and Suffolk counties prior to the end of World War I. It is a fascinating history of those who laid the foundation for what has become the fourth largest Jewish community in the United States today.

The lecture is free for members and $8 for non-members, which includes refreshments. Registration is required with non-refundable prepayment. Space is limited, so reserve your spot by calling 631-727-2881 X100 or book on Eventbrite for a small surcharge.