Our History
Explore how Jewish individuals and families helped shape Syracuse and Central New York—through business, community life, culture, and innovation—captured in a dynamic exhibit and oral history project.
Onondaga Historical Association Exhibit
The Onondaga Historical Association has a permanent exhibit of Jewish contributions to Syracuse and Onondaga County on the first floor of its museum at 321 Montgomery Street. “From Laying the Foundation to Forging Ahead” documents the role of the Jewish community in advancing the social, religious, economic and political fabric of the city and county in four areas: community, business, entertainment and athletics.
The business section concentrates on Jewish-owned retail stores, factories, and other businesses such as Alex Lyon & Son, Flah’s, SYROCO, Oberdorfer Foundry and United Radio. Some of these businesses are still thriving in Syracuse and beyond. The next generations of these successful companies were interviewed recently, and their oral histories will be added to the exhibit itself.
This process was recorded and made into a short film featuring three families.
Books
From A Minyan to A Community: A History of The Jews Of Syracuse
B.G. Rudolph (1970)
The Jewish Community of Syracuse
Barbara Sheklin Davis and Susan B. Rabin (2011)
A Place That Lives Only In Memory: The Old Jewish Neighborhood of Syracuse, New York
William Marcus (2012)
Together We Give More
There are many ways to give and make a difference - find yours here.
Your gift to the Jewish Federation of CNY brings dignity and care to the vulnerable and elderly, strengthens Jewish identity for our children and young adults, supports vital community programs, and creates meaningful Jewish life across Central New York and beyond.
The Jewish value of Tikkun Olam means “repairing the world,” and we are committed to supporting these efforts and fulfill this important sentiment.
