American Jewish Archives and UAHC announce Historic Study Mission to Curacao: May 4-10, 2004

The Jacob Rader Marcus Center of the American Jewish Archives & the Union of American Hebrew Congregations announce a Historic Study Mission to Curacao: May 4-10, 2004. As we prepare ouselves to commemorate 350 years of Jewish life, it is appropriate that we explore the roots of Jewry's North American origins. For most of the colonial period, Curacao saw itself as the "Mother" Jewish community of the New World. It provided guidance and financial assistance to smaller and weaker Jewish communities, such as New Amsterdam.

This informative trip will be provide a combination of touring and learning opportunites featuring interactive conversation and on-site experiences. Featured faculty include, Dr. Aviva Ben-Ur, Touro National Heritage Trust Fellow at the John Carter Brown Library at Brown University; Dr. Jonathan D. Sarna, Joseph H. & Belle R. Braun Professor of American Jewish History at Brandeis University; and Dr. Gary P. Zola, executive director of the Jacob Rader Marcus Center and Associate Professor of the American Jewish Experience at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion.

Participants will stay at the five-star Kura Hulanda hotel which features antiques and artifacts from past cultures, a museum of local history, and some of the island's best restaurants. Nestled above the glorious St. Ann Bay , this luxury boutique resort is located within a village complex known as project Kura Hulanda and is within walking distance to the capitol city of Willemstadt -- its shopping district and sites. Tours will feature the historic Mikve Israel Synagogue, the beautiful city of Willemstadt, as well as a number of unique museums and memorable locations throughout Curacao.

For more information, please contact: Ms. Lisa B. Frankel, Director of Programs, The Marcus Center, 3101 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220-2488; 513-221-1875 #218; lfrankel@huc.edu.