Jewish Historical Society of Southern Alberta

The Jewish Historical Society of Southern Alberta (JHSSA) is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to recording, preserving, and presenting the history of Southern Alberta's Jewish communities. Founded in 1990, the society plays a crucial role in documenting and showcasing the contributions and stories of Jewish families in Southern Alberta.

History

Jewish settlement in Southern Alberta began 130 years ago, with early settlers like Jacob and Rachel Diamond. Since then, the Jewish community has grown and become an integral part of the region, contributing significantly to its cultural and social fabric.

Mission and Activities

The JHSSA focuses on collecting archival materials such as personal documents, family histories, oral histories, cemetery records, and photographs. These resources are essential for educational programs, research support, and community engagement. The society provides classroom materials, hosts public events, mounts exhibits, and answers research inquiries, making it a vital resource for students, historians, and genealogists.

Programs and Events

JHSSA annually participates in Historic Calgary Week, demonstrating its commitment to preserving and sharing historical knowledge with the broader community. Additionally, it publishes a journal called Discovery, which highlights findings from its archival holdings.

Governance and Funding

The JHSSA is sustained through membership fees, fundraising efforts, donations, grants, and bequests. This organizational structure allows it to remain independent and committed to its mission without external control.

Significance

By preserving the history of Jewish communities in Southern Alberta, the JHSSA serves as a bridge between past and present. It helps individuals understand their roots and the broader cultural context that has shaped the region. The society's work contributes to a richer understanding of Canadian history and fosters community pride in Southern Alberta's diverse heritage.

[1] https://www.jhssa.org/book/publications.htm [2] https://www.jhssa.org/book/1.html [3] https://causes.benevity.org/causes/124-121811913RR0001 [4] https://jcfc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1103 [5] https://alliance2030.ca/members/jewish-historical-society-of-southern-alberta/