Back to All Events

Jewish Colonial Walking Tour

  • Meet outside the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House 1 Bowling Green New York, NY, 10004 United States (map)

The first Jewish immigrants to Manhattan arrived in 1654, during Dutch colonial times. The small group of 23 men, women, & children were allowed to stay, but with considerable restrictions. Their immediate concern was how to earn a living when many occupations were closed to them. 

During the Dutch and British periods, groups of Jews arrived from a variety of countries. The process of their making Manhattan a home involved creating a place to pray, providing kosher food, keeping their children within the faith, and balancing the interests of Sephardic and Ashkenazi residents.

Highlights include 
·       Site of the first synagogue in North America 
·       The 18th-century Jewish ghetto
·       George Washington’s letter affirming tolerance toward Jews
·       Minuit Plaza—the flagpole inscription honors the original 23 Jews in New York

Tour Leader: Joyce Gold

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jewish-colonial-walking-tour-tickets-1412559436299?aff=oddtdtcreator

Price: $10/person, with a maximum of 40 People

Previous
Previous
July 3

Maritime City

Next
Next
July 3

1600’s Symposium: The Beginning of the City