Below is an overview of individual and family collections housed in the South Texas Jewish Archives at the Woodson Research Center.
Askanase Family papers, 1948-1991 (MS 776)
Personal correspondence, certificates, newspaper and newsletter clippings, photographs, memorabilia, and a scrapbook document the activities of four members of the Askanase family from 1948 to 1991.
Link to collection guide
David Barg Military Papers, 1936-1946 (MS 982)
Correspondence recommending and rejecting David Barg for Officer Candidate School and some military records, including separation paperwork, document some of Captain Barg's time in the U.S. military between 1936 and 1946.
Shirley Barish papers, 1965-2011 (MS 755)
Correspondence, certificates, educational catalogs, event materials, speeches and sermons, news clippings, newsletters, conference materials, photographs, reports, a book draft, and organizational materials document Shirley Barish's community involvement, her time as an educator at Congregation Emanu El Religious School and as an advisor for the Congregation's Temple youth groups.
Bell Family collection, 1935-192 (MS 787)
The Bell family collection contains materials from various family members, such as a photograph of Boris “Bussie” Bell’s bowling team, report cards from Walter Bell’s school days, and piano recital programs featuring Marian Bell.
Link to collection guide
David Bell collection, 1941-1968 (MS 868)
Three BBYO yearbooks document some of the activities David Bell participated in while a member of the organization from 1966 to 1968. Of particular interest in the small collection is a 1941 copy of The Golden Book of Adath Yeshurun, which relates an in-depth history of the congregation's first fifty years.
Berman Family papers, 1942-2011 (MS 750)
The collection includes one box of correspondence; certificates of military service, public school attendance, marriage, and training; news clippings and part of a newsletter; a conference program; genealogy materials; and numerous photographs of family, friends, and events which document the history and activities of members of the Berman family.
Link to collection guide
Bennet L. "Bill" Blumberg scrapbook collection, 1940s; 1974 (MS 809)
The Bennet L. "Bill" Blumberg scrapbook collection is made up of one award and two scrapbooks containing photographs and news-clippings depicting the lives of Bill Blumberg, his wife Helen, and their family.
Link to collection guide
Jules H. Borger, 1930s; 1970s; 1990s (MS 810)
The Jules H. Borger collection offers a glimpse into the Houston Jewish community from the 1940s to 1990s. Containing a number of materials such as photographs, programs, and news clippings, the collection illuminates the day-to-day existence of some of Houston’s more prominent Jewish points of interest.
Link to collection guide
Alex Bregman baseball bat, 2018 (MS 816)
This collection consists of a game-used, cracked bat belonging to Alex Bregman with the Houston Astros.
Link to collection guide
Tania Brown Family papers, 1940-1997 (MS 842)
The Tania Brown Family Papers contain a Texas Southern Region Hadassah photo album, military correspondence, a regiment roster, a membership card to the Rainbow division veterans, two programs, and a photograph of Rachel and Frank Brown. The materials are in good condition, and range in date from 1940 to 1997.
Butler Family Papers, 1924-1987 (MS 984)
One box of programs, event materials, and family history materials, including a digitized memoir and news clippings, document the Butler family between 1924 to 1987.
Caplan / Wilk Family Papers, 1969-2006, (MS 988)
The Caplan / Wilk Family Papers contains a BBG booklet honoring Alan Gerger; "My Memoirs," by Lena Zellah Dow Caplan; JCC annual reports; JCC 70th anniversary booklet, program, and bookmark; data CDs containling lists of past presidents,photos, and event information; DVD titled "JCC: 70 Years - a Houston Landmark" document some activities undertaken by the Caplan / Wilk family from 1969 to 2006.
Chaskin/Hecht Family papers, 1920s-1980s, (MS 919)
Photographs, news clippings, school materials, certificates and diploma, programs/booklets, correspondence, speeches, and invitations document part of the lives of members of the Chaskin / Hecht family from 1917-1995. Of particular interest is a booklet from a family reunion that contains a detailed family tree.
Jerry Cohen papers, 1973-1987 (MS 925)
Correspondence, speeches (by Jerry Cohen, Ira Tumpowsky, and Jerry's daughter, Elise Cohen Passy), a news clipping, a photograph, and an invitation document a just a tiny part of the life of Jerry Cohen, the first president of Congregation Beth Am, from 1973 to 1987.
Colish/Samuels Family papers, 1943-1951 (MS 873)
The Colish / Samuels Family Papers contain group photographs of AZA and high schoolers at San Jacinto H.S., a confirmation certificate, memorabilia such as a letterman jacket “L,” and a news clipping memorializing the victory of Robert Samuels’ J.C.C-based baseball team, “The General,” as well as school materials such as a paper about War defense stamps and bonds, a graduation announcement, and photo of Samuels his senior year. The materials are in good condition and date from 1943 to 1951.
Rochella Cooper Papers, 2019-2022 (MS 1032)
The collection consists of a digitized copy of Rochella Cooper's memoir, Insights and Stories to Tell, and a digitized oral history interview and transcript conducted by the Houston Jewish History Archive in 2022 document the life of Rochella Cooper. The book was scanned in-house and returned to the author.
Link to collection guide
Link to digitized material
Croft/Wunsch Family papers, 1931-2000 (MS 752)
Correspondence, awards and citations, photographs, scrapbooks, news clippings, newsletters, meeting minutes, and marketing and event materials, primarily, document the lives of the Croft and Kaplan families.
Link to collection guide
Daily/Hart Family papers, 1911-2015 (MS 893)
The collection contains family materials and synagogue/organization materials from Congregations Beth Israel, Emanu El and B'nail B'rith, including certificates, contracts, correspondence, school materials, reports, photographs, scrapbooks and memory books, and memorabilia spanning the years 1911 to 2015.
Link to collection guide
Link to digitized material
Henry J. Dannenbaum papers, 1910-1912 (MS 736)
Correspondence, news clippings, reports, publications, court documents, and organizational papers document Henry J. Dannenbaum's time as Special Assistant to the Attorney General of the United States working to enforce the Mann Act (White-Slave Traffic Act).
Link to collection guide
Dattle Family papers, 1939-1946 (MS 839)
The Dattle Family papers contain a marriage certificate for Phillip and Bertha Dattle, a photograph of their wedding party, and military records for Phillip’s honorable discharge from the United States army.
Link to collection guide
Daum/Gersh Family papers, 1937-1952 (MS 850)
A binder of recorded minutes from the Houston Hadassah chapter's Business and Professional committee meetings from 1937 to 1945, a summary of a session at the 26th Annual Convention in 1940, and a newspaper clipping document some of the activities undertaken by the Houston Hadassah chapter between 1937 and 1952. Also included are University of Houston yearbooks, San Jacinto High School alumni directories and a graduating class photo, recipes spanning the years 1949 to 2012.
Link to collection guide
Link to Houston Hadassah meeting minutes, 1937-1945
Gertrude Estelle Denn papers, 1938-2002 (MS 765)
News clippings, a dance card, a high school yearbook, and photographs documents events in Gertrude Denn's life, primarily during World War II.
Link to collection guide
Eisenberg Family papers, 1937-1999 (MS 818)
This collection consists of one folder containing news clippings, a marriage certificate, a photograph of Adath/Beth Yeshurun synagogue, an Adath Yeshurun newsletter, and a list of San Jacinto High School class of 1949 graduates.
Epstein Family papers, 1939-1999 (MS 865)
Certificates, correspondence, event materials, photographs, and scrapbooks document the lives of members of the Epstein family and their involvement in the Houston Jewish Community from 1937-1999.
This collection includes school reports, certificates, pamphlets, photographs, and a school assignment from Eskowitz's time at Beth El religious school and as a member of B'nai B'rith Youth Organization.
Link to collection guide
Audrey & Sylvia Farb papers, 1938-1991 (MS 741)
This collection contains a small number of programs, certificates, booklets, and correspondence regarding imminent Jewish Associations in Houston, such as Aleph Zadik Aleph, B’nai B’rith and Emanu El, as well as personal papers related to Aubrey Farb.
Link to collection guide
Farfel Family papers, c. 1950s-1980s, (MS 879)
University of Houston Board of Regents records along with business records and family papers, which include correspondence, photographs, awards, news clippings, contracts, and financial records document some of the Farfel family's business, philanthropic, and recreational activities within the city of Houston and the city's Jewish community from the 1950s to 1980s.
Steven Fenberg papers, 1926-2013, (MS 804)
The Steven Fenberg Papers are comprised of books, correspondence, documents, and newsprint relevant to the life of Steven Fenberg--America’s top scholar of influential Houston mogul Jesse H. Jones. Though many of the materials (including Fenberg’s book “Unprecedented Power” and documentary “Brother, Can You Spare a Billion?”) concern Jones, still more of the materials explore Fenberg’s other philanthropic interests and connections with the wider Houston community, such as his patronage of AIDS Foundation Houston and affiliation with Congregation Emanu El.
Link to collection guide
Fink Family papers, 1930-1987 (MS 759)
The Fink family Papers are comprised of photographs of the Fink family, the Purple heart medal awarded to Harold Fink for his wartime service, and various papers related to the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization and Echo Hill Ranch---both organizations that nurture and encourage the growth of Jewish Teens.
Link to collection guide
Fisher Family papers, 1932-1941 (MS 819)
The Fisher Family papers include materials related to Rabbi Henry Cohen and his tenure at congregation B’nai Israel. A writer as a well as a scholar and community activist, Cohen’s knowledge of Jewry in Texas survives in the writings he left behind.
Link to collection guide
Ruth Hutton Fred papers, 1928-2013, (MS 901)
The Ruth Hutton Fred collection contains materials from 1928 to 2013 including correspondence, event materials, military documents/materials, newspaper clippings, newsletters, and photographs. Many papers are related to Ruth Hutton Fred and her life in the Houston Jewish community. The collection also contains materials pertaining to her husband, Harry Fred's army service during World War II. The materials are ideal for researchers interested in the Houston Jewish Community and Ruth Hutton Fred's role as the Executive Director of Jewish Family Services.
Link to collection guide
Link to digitized material
Freedman Family papers, 1935-1982, (MS 800)
This collection contains a JCC newsletter, a Confirmation program and photograph, a Navy baseball team photo taken during World War II, and a Hebrew New Years Eve card, which document some activities and events the Freedman family participated in from 1935 to 1982.
Friedman Family papers, 1970-2013, (MS 832)
Made up of mostly class photos from Beth Yeshurun Day school, the Friedman Family papers show David and Rachel Friedman growing up in the tight-knit community formed by Beth Yeshurun’s outreach to Houston Jews.
Link to collection guide
Gaber/Kline Family papers, 1916-2017, (MS 854)
Certificates, correspondence, event materials, memorabilia, news clippings, photographs, and publications document the lives of members of the Gaber and Kline families and their involvement in the Houston Jewish Community from 1917-2017.
Lenard Gabert, Sr. Architectural records, 1930-2002 (MS 695)
Architectural records of Lenard Gabert, whose most famous works are his Texas synagogues--including temples for the congregations Israel, Shearith Israel, Emanu El, Adath Emeth, Beth Jacob, and Beth Yeshurun.
Link to collection guide
Geller and allied families papers, 1896-2000 (MS 768)
This collection contains photographs, clippings, correspondence, and newsletters related to members of the Geller and Leff families.
Joyce Gilbert papers, 1975-2018 (MS 805)
One box containing certificates, correspondence, a travel journal, photographs, a magazine article, event materials, and a Soviet Jewry nameplate documents Joyce Gilbert's activities in the Houston Jewish community and her work to assist Russian Jewry.
Link to collection guide
Jay Ginsburg Papers, 1958-1966 (MS 884)
This collection consists of one box containing correspondence, directories, conference/convention materials, newclippings, speeches and programs from Jay Ginsburg during his involvement in Aleph Zadik Aleph, spanning from 1958-1966.
Link to collection guide
Golzman/Levis Family Papers (MS 955)
This collection consists of printed scans of a wedding album that was water damaged. The album was scanned and discarded. Telegrams, handwritten note, and invitation preserved
Shelby D. Goodman collection, 1949-1962, (MS 820)
The Shelby D. Goodman collection contains concept sketches and photographs of two of Goodman’s most influential buildings--the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Building and the Kaplan Museum of Judaica. In addition, the collection has several religious group photographs, and six sound recordings of Jewish religious music, offering a rich insight into Jewish spaces and traditions in the community.
Link to collection guide
Link to digitized material
Greenfield Family papers, 1915-1918 (MS 860)
Letters from Morris Greenfield to his future wife, Bessie Peters, and a family photograph -- which includes three generations of the Greenfield family -- document a very small part of the lives of members of the Greenfield family from 1915 to 1918.
Dennis Halpin collection, 2000-2010, (MS 861)
The Dennis Halpin collection contains programs from ‘Cantor’s Concerts’, ‘Books of Remembrance’, church bulletins, membership meeting documents, and two vinyl records from congregations Adath Emeth and Beth Yeshurun. The materials are in good condition and range in date from 2000 to 2010.
Marilyn Hassid SAR collection, 1939-1968 (MS 737)
The collection contains materials from the Houston Chapter of the nation’s largest Jewish Fraternity, giving insight into the chapter’s events and day-to-day existence. The materials are in good condition and range in date from 1939 to 1968.
Link to collection guide
Link to digitized material
Hertz Family Papers, 1966-2011 (MS 969)
Three boxes of photographs, programs, flyers, correspondence, service packets, t-shirts, and newspaper clippings from Congregation Emanu El, Interfaith Charities, the Jewish-Herald Voice, West Houston B'nai B'rith, JCC West Houston, Greene Family Camp, and NFTY document some activities members of the Hertz family were involved in from from 1966-2011.
Max Herzog World War II Memorabilia collection, 1935-1947 (MS 715)
The collection consists of a photo album, a telegram, military paperwork and correspondence, and memorabilia including: currency from several of the countries he traveled through during his time in the Army, a metal identification bracelet inscribed with a message from his mother, a shell necklace and bracelet from Hawaii, and a recording sent from Herzog to his wife back home which has been digitized.
Link to collection guide
Link to digitized audio recording
Hoffman / Karchmer Family Papers, 1960-1992 (MS 0966)
One box containing photographs, news clipppings, and certificates documents part of the lives of the Hoffman/Karchmer family from 1960 to 1992. Forms part of the South Texas Jewish Archives.
Kenneth Horwitz Beaumont [TX] Jewish congregation materials, 1952-1987 (MS 801)
One box of materials (programs and booklets) from events in Beaumont, including Congregation Emanuel and Congregation Kol Israel, an ethnic history of Beaumont, and photographs of Horwitz's family members and groups from Kol Israel.
Link to collection guide
Isaacs/Hofeller Family papers, 1919-2002 (MS 903)
Correspondence; books; event materials, including dance programs and wedding invitations; bulletins; newsletters and news clippings; a photograph; and a VHS cassette document the lives of the Isaacs and Hofeller families and their activities within the Galveston and Houston Jewish communities between 1919 and 2002. Of particular interest is a documentary on the 1900 Galveston storm, which features an interview with 104 year old Lorraine Isaacs Hofeller.
Robert and Lisa Kahn Papers, ca. 1960s-199s (MS 962)
The collection consists of three boxes containing published books and documents regarding the publications.
Katz Family papers, 1939-1991 (MS 872)
One box containing personal photographs, a play written about Ben Katz, Beth Yeshurun programs, a VHS recording, and materials about the history of Beth Yeshurun documents some of the activities and interests of the Katz family within the Houston Jewish community from 1939 to 1991. Of particular interest is a video tape titled, "100th Anniversary" of Beth Yeshurun recorded in 1990.
Happy Katz Adath Israel collection, 1905-1966, (MS 889)
This collection contains legal and financial documents of incorporation for the Adath Israel Congregation and more general materials, including prayer books and the original building’s mezuzah. Materials in the collection span from 1905 to 1966.
Karen Diane Katz, 1972-1974, (MS 989)
The Karen Diane Katz Papers contains BBYO booklets and a group photo, a JCC event program, correspondence, and a photo from the 1974 Bellaire Senior Prom document some activities Karen Diane Katz participated in from 1972 to 1974.
Link to collection guide
Kaufman Family papers, 1900-2012 (MS 769)
Certificates, correspondence, memorabilia, photographs, publications, a commencement program, speeches, and a scrapbook document the lives of the Stephen and Ann Kaufman's family.
Link to collection guide
Phyllis Kaufman Family papers, 1954-2005, (MS 840)
One box of materials from a large scrapbook containing correspondence, certificates, awards, diplomas, news clippings, patents, and photographs documents some of Phyllis Kaufman's father, Norman Belasco's, life from 1954 to 2005, including his twenty year career with NASA. The collection also includes ten photographs from Phyllis's time as an instructor at I. Weiner Jewish Secondary School in Houston.
Link to collection guide
Sheldon Kaufman papers, 1956-2004, (MS 837)
The collection consists of one box containing primary school certificates, Bar Mitzvah materials, a letter of intent to play baseball for Rice University on a scholarship, news clippings, admissions paperwork, correspondence, Rice team schedules, an award, and two scrapbooks that documents Sheldon Kaufman's time spent as a youth at Adath Emeth primary school and his baseball career from Little League through his time at Rice University spanning the years 1956 to 2004.
Link to collection guide
Rabbi Jimmy Kessler collection, 1942-2006, (MS 887)
This collection contains memorabilia from TX Jewish Historical Society and Echo Hill Ranch camp, Shep Fields lighter, Little Jewford kazoo, Red leather bag containing WWII ration cards, Kinky for Governor button and Echo Hill Ranch button, ceramic Texas Hillel pencil holder/vase, Two DVDs: "A Conversation with Dr. Jacob Radar Marcus, "A Tour of Jewish Galveston" coloring book, "Rabbi and Historian" and "Henry Cohen: The Life of a Frontier Rabbi" and "Temple B'nai Israel: The History of a BOI."
Kristal Family papers, 1921-1925, (MS 834)
Correspondence and one news clipping document a small part of the lives of the Kristal family, their relatives, and friends from 1921 to 1925. The majority of the correspondence is in Yiddish and needs to be translated to get the full context of the correspondence.
Link to collection guide
Lack Family/Temple B'nai Israel [Victoria, TX] collection, 1877-2019 (MS 902)
Administrative records, books, correspondences, News-clippings, photographs, and programs document the lives of members of Temple B'nai Israel and their involvement in the Victorian Jewish Community starting from its founding in 1872. Of particular interest is the original copy of the Constitution and by-laws of B'nai Israel in 1895, News-clippings on famous Victorian Jewish pioneers, and a speech from Godcheaux L. Levi, a descendant of one of the early founders of B'nai Israel, to the Victoria Historical Society. This collection would be useful for researchers interested in the history of the Victorian Jewish community, early and recent publications, and the Temple B’nai Israel.
Morton and Jean Levy papers, 1948-1997 (MS 845)
The collection consists of one box containing a scrapbook of, primarily, Morton Levy's architectural drawings of the proposed renovation to Congregation Brith Shalom's interior, correspondence, newsclippings, and photographs of the congregation's interior from 1986-1996. In addition to the drawings in the scrapbook there are ten prints from Levy's portfolio (1997) of a number of synagogues that he worked on. The rest of the material -- two Congregation Beth Israel bulletins, newsclippings, and two group photographs of Barnston B.B.G. members -- is from 1948 to 1954.
Link to collection guide
Robert Levy Family papers, 1929-1993, (MS 831)
The collection contains five Purple Quill Publications, documents such as programs, church bulletins, letters, certificates, and invitations, as well as several early editions of the B’nai B’rith Hillel Scribe, a publication no longer in print. Though the materials range in date from 1929 to 1993, the majority of the papers are from earlier dates.
Levy/Cohen papers/memorabilia, 1934-2018 (MS 758)
A school yearbook and memory book, diplomas and certificates, news clippings, event programs, business materials, and photographs document the lives and careers of members of the Levy and Cohen families - focusing primarily on the lives of Edward Levy and Edna Mae (Cohen) Levy.
Link to collection guide
Carol Liberman papers, 1983-2014 (MS 767)
Books, correspondence, newspaper clippings, newsletters, photographs, and a speech document parts of Liberman's forty-plus years as an educator.
Link to collection guide
Alan Lipman (BBYO) programs, 1970-1982 (MS 864)
B'nai B'rith Youth Organization (BBYO) programs document BBYO activities in which Alan Lipman was involved, with Aleph Zadik Aleph (AZA) and B'nai B'rith Girls (BBG), in Houston from 1970-1984.
Carol Litowich (BBG) papers, 1952-1958, (MS 836)
One box of convention materials, newsletters, directories, and event materials documents some of the activities Carolyn Litowich participated in during her time as a member of B'nai B'rith Youth Organization/B'nai B'rith Girls in the 1950's.
Link to collection guide
Loeb Family Papers (MS 914)
The collection consists of Emanuel (Beaumont) programs, news clippings, photographs, Grandma Loeb's European Diary, certificates, remembrance card, marriage contract (Ketubah) for Morris and Delphine Loeb, deeds and wills.
Link to collection guide
Loeb / Blank Family Papers (MS 1003)
One box of correspondence, family history materials, photographs, and publications document the lives of the Loeb/Blank family from 1736-2002.
Libby & Edward Marvins papers, 1912-2007 (MS 782)
This collection contains newsprint, photographs, documents such as membership lists and pamphlets, and groups of memorabilia such as t-shirts and matchboxes as well as unique items—-a matzah cover, a dedicated gavel, and a ceramic planter in the shape of a shoe.
Link to collection guide
Sherry Merfish papers, 1971-1993, (MS 815)
The collection contains correspondence, awards, memorabilia, photographic slides, speeches, sermons, and conference/meeting and marketing/publicity materials that document Sherry Merfish's activism to end the negative stereotyping of Jewish women in the guise of the "Jewish American Princess" and, to a lesser extent, her work with EMILY'S List.
Link to collection guide
George Meyer family photos and memorabilia, 1916-1967 (MS 774)
The collection contains family photos, photos of the Loraine & George B. Meyer house on Holcombe Blvd. in Houston, a catalog of the company business, and a resolution on the death of Joseph F. Meyer.
Link to collection guide
Lasker Meyer Family collection, 1921-1980 (MS 746)
This small collection includes correspondence, certificates, dance programs, newsprint, photographs, and pamphlets pertaining to Lasker Meyer, his family, and the Foley’s department store chain that he ran until 1987. The materials are in good condition, and range in date from 1921 to 1980. This is an ideal collection for researchers interested in Houston Jewish historical figures and the local Houston scene, though the materials focus more on the Meyer Family than the store itself.
Leon Nad Family archive, 1900-1964, (MS 798)
The Leon Nad Family Archive contains photographs and a single program reflecting the experiences of family members, including the Leon and his father Irving.
Link to collection guide
Martin Nathan collection, 1944-1957 (MS 784)
The Martin Nathan Collection contains photographs and scrapbook pages depicting Martin Nathan over the course of his life, with a focus on his Bar Mitzvah. The detailed identification of attendees and extensive gift list offer a clear depiction of the ceremony.
Link to collection guide
Estelle Panzer papers, c. 1980s-1990s (MS 917)
Two boxes containing media and scrapbooks, as well as a digitized oral history interview, document the life of Estelle Panzer from 1980 to 2019.
Pryzant Family collection, 1935-1949 (MS 716)
A family reunion booklet, family history materials, a diploma, cemetery deed, and photographs document the lives of members of the Pryzant family from 1920 to 1994.
Robbins / Levy Family Papers, 1819-2005 (MS 1065)
The Robbins/Levy Family Papers contains four boxes of materials from 1819 to 2005 inlcuding a certificate, correspondence, photographs, programs, publications, memorabilia, newspaper clippings, records and writings. The collection contains eight photo albums which document the Robbins/Levy family's history of immigration to the United States and life in the Houston Jewish Community. A large extent of the collection is dedicated to the professional life of Dr. Leonard Robbins, who served as the President of the Board of Education of the Houston Independent School District and owned a medical clinic in Houston. Of particular interest is the familial correspondence spanning many years and languages, including connection to relatives in Alsasce-Lorraine and the Dreyfus Family in France: of possible connection to the infamous Dreyfus Affair.
Ileene Rosenfield Robinson papers, c. 1912-2000s, (MS 905)
This collection includes a photo album, wedding book, and a diary; handwritten recipes; WWII era materials; UOS, Camp Echo Hill, and TOL materials; correspondence; citizenship, birth, and honor certificates; news clippings; diplomas; event programs; genealogy information; postcards; books; a marriage license; cemetery plot paperwork; and materials from Shearith Israel.
Hyman Joe Rosenzweig papers, 1914-1957 (MS 735)
The collection includes artifacts, correspondence, education material, membership material, military records, and photographs that document the life of Hyman Joe Rosenzweig during his childhood and his time in the Army during World War II.
Link to collection guide
Bob Rubin papers, 1952-1990, (MS 867)
The Bob Rubin papers contain certificates, report cards, photographs, correspondence, programs, invitations, and memorabilia tracking Bob Rubin’s birth and schooling from elementary through undergrad and on to dental school, including his high school reunion in 1990. The collection also contains yearbooks, programs, invitations, speeches, and certificates related to Bob’s attendance at Beth Yeshurun and participation in the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization. The materials are in good condition, and range in date from 1952 to 1990.
Janice Rubin papers, 1941-2015 (MS 751)
The collection consists of two boxes of correspondence, newspaper clippings, newsletters, programs, photographic material, and media (VHS, audio cassettes, and cd's) that document some of Janice Rubin's activities as a teacher, musician, and photographer within the Houston Jewish community from 1953 to 2015. Also included is a packet of materials provided to Jewish service members during World War II.
Rubinsky Family papers, 1991-2001 (MS 866)
Address books, calendars, camp information materials, publications, and religious school materials document the lives of members of the Rubinsky family and their involvement in the Houston Jewish Community from 1991-2001.
Leon Samet (ZOA Southwest) papers, c. 1950s-1980s (MS 920)
This collection includes news clippings and newsletters, correspondence, financial/fundraising materials, membership lists, Zionist Congress election materials, meeting minutes/materials, bulletins, event materials, memorabilia (buttons, patches, ribbons, pin), biographical sketches, photographs, scrapbook, speeches, stationary, embosser, and a Purin Queen tiara and gown.
Rabbi Hyman Judah Schachtel papers, 1931-1990 (MS 730)
The collection contains sermons, published and unpublished works, photographs, radio program recordings, from the life and career of Rabbi Hyman Judah Schachtel, Senior Rabbi of Congregation Beth Israel, Houston, Texas from 1943 to 1975, and Rabbi at Large from 1975 until his death in 1990.
Link to collection guide
Schepps/Brand Family papers, c. 1931-? (MS 843)
Two boxes containing awards and certificates, event materials, correspondence, photographs, publications, and newsclippings document the lives of the Schepps/Brand family from 1910-1997.
Schlanger Family papers, 1937-1985 (MS 863)
Certificates, correspondence, news clippings/newsletters, a photograph, a program, and an interview transcript document the lives of members of the Schlanger family and their involvement in the Houston Jewish Community from 1937-1985.
Schneider Family papers, 1975-2016, (MS 895)
The Schneider Family collection contains materials from 1975 to 2016 including administrative records, cookbooks, correspondences, journals, memorabilia, photos, programs, and publications. Many papers are related to different aspects of the United Orthodox Synagogues of Houston, including the Men's Club and the Sisterhood, and the Hebrew/Robert M. Beren Academy.
Schniderson Family Papers, ca. 1930s-1970s (MS 932)
The collection consists of bulletins, confirmation programs, AZA Sweetheart dance program, newsletters, Bellaire High commencement program, wedding contract, prayerbook, handwriting wookbook, Israel 25th Anniversary book, and photographs.
Betsy Schreiber papers, 1928-1996 (MS 796)
The collection includes one folder containing wedding invitations from Elizabeth Schreiber's maternal grandparents and great-grandparents, a Certificate of Confirmation from Beth Israel, San Jacinto high school diploma, photographs of the 1946 San Jacinto high school baseball team and their 50th reunion, and the Sigma Theta Pi spring formal and STP sorority pin.
Link to collection guide
Schuleman Family collection, 1928-1975 (MS 807)
This collection consists of one folder containing a newspaper clipping on the death of one of Adath Israel's founders, a military pin, Israel Schuleman's graduation invitations from San Jacinto High School and the University of Texas Med School, and materials from his time in the U.S. Army (1946-1947; 1953) including, a photograph, a memorial certificate, dog tags, and military discharge papers.
Link to collection guide
Sol Schwartz family collection, 1927-2008 (MS 806)
The Sol Schwartz family collection provides an in-depth look at the experiences of a Jewish family growing up in Houston, particularly through Alex Schwartz’ Autobiography and the Board Minutes he took for Congregation Rodefei Sholom. With its American Mizrachi Women Chapter Directory, Column by Rabbi Segal praising Alex Schwartz, and the Torah awarded Sol Schwartz, the collection showcases multiple family members and their contributions to the Houston Jewish community.
Link to collection guide
Schwartz/Stein Family [Schulenburg] papers, 1925-2014 (MS 858)
The collection is made up of one box containing correspondence, photographs, news clippings, citizenship paperwork, a confirmation certificate, a book on the history of Temple Israel, and guides to Jewish cemeteries in the area which documents part of the lives of members of the Schwartz and Stein families within the Schulenburg Jewish community and events at Temple Israel from 1925-2014.
Sklar Family papers, 1930-1954 (MS 789)
The Sklar Family papers contain photographs and certificates relevant to the Sklar family, such as Fred Sklar’s confirmation certificate and bar mitzvah materials. The papers offer a look at institutions such as the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization and Congregation Beth Jacob, and the ceremonies that tie families and communities together.
Link to collection guide
Seth Stolbun Papers (MS 997)
Two boxes containing Emory-Weiner school materials (yearbooks, directories, school photos, ID card), River Oaks Elementry materials (report card, programs), ID card from school in Israel, Bar Mitzvah photo album and practice materials, BBYO materials (books, panoramic photos), invitations, certificates document Seth Stolbun's life from 2001-2017.
Edward Stone Papers, 1956-1989 (MS 1054)
One box containing primarily BBYO materials, including correspondence, photographs, news clippings, membership cards, lapel pins and other memorabilia, a certificate, Model Convention materials, and event programs documents activities Edward Stone was involved in from 1956 to 1989.
Beverly Sufian Papers, 1989-2018 (MS 812)
Three boxes of adminstrative and event materials, newsletters and news clippings, and general organizational materials document some of the activities of the National Council of Jewish Women - Greater Houston Section from 1989 to 2018.
Topek/Silverman Family papers, 1951-1980, (MS 808)
The collection contains one folder of programs from events at Congregation Emanu El and Brith Shalom; a photograph of Joseph Silverman at the construction site for Houston's first modern skyscraper, the Melrose Building, downtown on the corner of Walker and San Jacinto; a newsclipping about Melvin Silverman's death; and a Beth Yeshurun newsletter.
Dan & Ellen Trachtenberg papers, 1983-1989 (MS 756)
News clippings, newsletters, event programs, photographs, and slides document a small part of Ellen and Dan Trachtenberg's activism in support of Soviet Jews and attempts to better their lives.
Link to collection guide
Wagman Family photographs, 1920-1955, (MS 799)
The Wagman family photographs consist of a scrapbook, 12 loose portraits and group shots, and a copy of Josep Wagman’s Naturalization Certificate. The materials are in good condition and range in date from the early 1920s to the late 1950s.
Martin and Naomi Warren Papers, 1952-2010 (MS 739)
One box of news clippings, membership cards, photographs, and biographical information documents the lives of Martin and Naomi Warren from 1952-2010. Of particular interest is Naomi Warren's testimony about her life, including as a prisoner at Auschwitz-Birkenau and Bergen-Belsen.
Link to collecion guide.
Sol B. Weiner Papers, 1960-1985 (MS 913)
The collection consists of one folder consisting of an event program, photographs, and a photocopy from Beth Yeshurun's newsletter, The Message, documents a few events in the life of Sol B. Weiner from 1960 to 1985.
Link to collection guide
Weinstein Family papers, 1912-2012 (MS 857)
The Weinstein Family papers contain photographs, news clippings, books, and documents relating to the Weinstein family, and Irving and Lily Weinstein in particular. Irving’s years serving in World War II are well-documented by both his membership cards and official correspondence, and the letters that he wrote regularly to Lily during his time overseas. Lily’s attendance at San Jacinto High School can be explored through her yearbook from 1934 and reunion programs from 1974 and 1984.
Westheimer/Simon Family papers, 1920-2012 (MS 876)
The Westheimer / Simon Family papers consist of materials related to Congregations Emanu El, and Beth Israel, such as sermons, programs, obituaries, and church bulletins, as well as more personal family materials like newspaper clippings, correspondence, books, memorabilia, photographs (family members, etc.), membership cards, and legal documents. Many events related to the Westheimer / Simon Family are also recorded in a number of certificates, diplomas, yearbooks, and invitations, and the collection boasts two VHS tapes and two cassette tapes, as well as several scrapbooks / memory books devoted to weddings, births, and deaths in the family. The materials are in good condition, and range in date from 1920 to 2012.To assist in genealogical research and making connections between the many people represented in this collection, the arranger’s constructed family tree can be found in the control folder.
Link to collection guide
Link to digitized material
Dolores Wilkenfeld papers, 1973-2007 (MS 797)
The collection contains one box of speeches, event programs and media, newsclippings, and bulletins which document some of Dolores Wilkenfeld's interests and activities within the Reform Jewish Community in Houston and around the world from 1973 to 2017, with a focus on assisting Russian Jewry.
Link to collection guide
Joe Williams Family [Beaumont, TX] Papers, 1908-2012 (MS 1012)
The collection contains materials from Joe Williams time as president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and Congregation Emanu El, correspondence - including love letters between Lizabell Williams Baer and Ludwig "Ludie" Baer, family photographs, slides, property deeds, post cards, VHS recordings, audio of bar mitzvah, newsletters, news clippings, membership cards, and scrapbooks spanning the years 1908 to 2012.
Jerry Wische JCC collection, 1936-2021 (MS 931)
One box of administrative records, event materials, newsletters and news clippings, correspondence, and media document some activities undertaken by members of the Jewish Community Center from 1936 to 2021.
Link to collection guide
S.L. Wisenberg family papers, 1961-1971 (MS 763)
Two scrapbooks, 1961-1971, containing photographs, school report cards, programs, newspaper clippings, agendas, and correspondence document the interests and activities of S.L. Wisenberg as a child.
Link to collection guide
David Wolf Family papers, 1908-1970, (MS 757)
The David Wolf Family papers are made up of photographs, news clippings, certificates, and religious texts relating to several members of the extended Wolf family, namely, David Wolf, his parents Morris M. Wolf and Helen Krakower Wolf, and his grandparents Jake Krakower and Ida Cohen. A more extensive family tree to aid in identifying the relationships between other featured family members can be found in the control folder. The materials are in good condition, and range in date from 1908 to 1970.
Wolf / Mazow Family Papers, 1935-2018 (MS 953)
One box of newspaper clippings, photographs, magazine articles, writings, correspondence, agendas, yearbooks, a musical score, and a Holocaust curriculum book documents the lives of members of the Wolf / Mazow family from 1935 to 2018.
Yellen Family papers, 1935-1998 (MS 838)
The Yellen Family papers are mostly comprised of photographs and memorabilia related to Milton Yellen’s time practicing dentistry in New Guinea for the army during World War II. The collection also contains religious and army certificates, publications, and correspondence depicting the Yellen family’s connections to the Jewish community.
Link to collection guide
Gigi Yellen-Kohn Family papers, 1913-1973, (MS 856)
The collection is made up of documents including birth certificates, membership and business cards, correspondence, and event programs. The collection also contains photographs and scrapbook pages, as well as memorabilia like pins, nametags, keychains, and commemorative pens. The materials are in good condition and range in date from 1913 to 1973.
Zimmerman Family Papers, 1908-1982 (MS 947)
One box of photographs, political and personal memorabilia, and genealogy materials documents the lives of Judge Alvin Zimmerman and his family from 1908 to the 1990s. Of particular interest is an extensive history of the Zippenuch family.