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Guide to the B'nai B'rith, District Four Records, 1863-1997, [bulk 1980-1996]
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Description
This set of records provides an extensive and detailed portrait of what is arguably the most important Jewish organization
in North America.
Background
B'nai B'rith (BB) was formed by twelve German-Jewish Immigrants in a small café on New York's Lower East Side in 1843. It
was created to help Jews settle in their new land and to try to stem the splintering of Jewish groups involved in the 34 synagogues
existing in Manhattan at that time. As a non-religious Jewish organization, it became an important neutral ground for Jews
of various origins and religious viewpoints. It continues to be an important institution by helping to sustain Jewish continuity
and community, responding to anti-Jewish rhetoric, and providing aid in times of disaster. 1 The old title District Grand Lodge #4 was shortened to District #4 by the 1960s.
Restrictions
Publication Rights
It is the responsibility of the user to obtain copyright or publishing authorization
from The Western Jewish History Center.
Availability
Access
Collection is open for research by appointment only every Monday-Thursday, except for those Jewish and Federal holidays when
it is closed.