Are you a history buff? Do you love learning about the past and uncovering hidden stories? If so, you’re in for a treat! I’m currently working on a fascinating book about Schenectady County in the 19th Century, titled “Schenectady Genesis, Volume III: Schenectady in the Context of the New American Republic, 1800-1869.” This book is a deep dive into the history of Schenectady, and I can’t wait to share it with all of you.
One of the most exciting aspects of writing Volume III is the opportunity to shed light on a relatively unexplored period in Schenectady’s history. While there has been some scholarship on major topics like railroads, the Erie Canal, the Civil War, and General Electric, the 19th century as a whole has been largely overlooked. This leaves a wealth of untapped research opportunities, and I’ve spent the past year delving into archives to uncover as much as I can.
But perhaps the most intriguing area of study for me has been the transformation of Schenectady from a predominantly Anglo-Dutch settlement into a diverse and cosmopolitan city in the mid-to-late 19th century. The influx of Irish, Germans, eastern Europeans, and Italians dramatically altered the character of Schenectady, and I’ve been captivated by this evolution.
One group that has particularly piqued my interest is the Jewish community in Schenectady. Their story is one that deserves to be told, especially in today’s world. While the early records of Jewish settlers in Schenectady are scarce, I’ve been piecing together their history and the impact they had on the city.
Uncovering the Past
The first Jews to enter New Netherland, known as “The 23,” faced numerous challenges before finding a home in the region. Their journey from Recife, Brazil, to New Netherland is a tale of resilience and perseverance, and I’ve been dedicated to bringing their story to light.
As I’ve delved deeper into the Jewish settlement of Schenectady, I’ve uncovered fascinating stories of individuals like Mordecai Myers, a prominent figure in the War of 1812, and Alexander Susholz, one of the earliest recorded Jewish residents in the city. Their contributions to Schenectady’s history are truly remarkable.
Preserving History
It’s essential to recognize and honor the contributions of the Jewish community in Schenectady. From the establishment of Congregation Shaarai Shamayim to the formation of multiple congregations, their impact on the city’s cultural and religious landscape is undeniable. I’m grateful to individuals and organizations like Congregation Gates of Heaven, Agudat Achim, and the Schenectady County Historical Society for their invaluable support in this research.
Celebrating the Past
As we look ahead to the future, it’s important to commemorate the pivotal moments in Schenectady’s history. The upcoming 250th anniversary of the raising of the Second Liberty Pole in Schenectady is a significant event, and I’m thrilled to be part of the commemoration. Join us on Jan. 12, 2024, as we reenact this historic event and celebrate the spirit of liberty that has shaped our nation.
Stay tuned for more updates on my book and upcoming events as we journey through Schenectady’s rich and diverse history. There’s so much to discover, and I can’t wait to share it all with you!
Agree It sounds fascinating! I love learning about history through captivating books like this.
Disagree. Not really interested in history books.
Disagree The historical context of Schenectady doesn’t interest me.