Excerpts from the introduction:
Why a story of the Jewish community of Essex County?
The annals of Jewish history contain the records of Jewish communities by the hundreds, if not by the thousands. Some of them existed two thousand years ago or earlier; others are as recent as our own, or still younger ... And yet, our story is different in many respects. To us, moreover, this community, founded by our great-grandparents, grandparents and parents, is of very special interest. The scene of their labors is familiar to us. The historic landmarks, many of them, are still here for us to see. And the fruit of their labors is ours to enjoy ... THE ESSEX STORY is the product of the teamwork of the members of the professional staff of the Jewish Education Association. It is our modest contribution to the observance of the Tercentenary of Jewish life in America.
Why a story of the Jewish community of Essex County?
The annals of Jewish history contain the records of Jewish communities by the hundreds, if not by the thousands. Some of them existed two thousand years ago or earlier; others are as recent as our own, or still younger ... And yet, our story is different in many respects. To us, moreover, this community, founded by our great-grandparents, grandparents and parents, is of very special interest. The scene of their labors is familiar to us. The historic landmarks, many of them, are still here for us to see. And the fruit of their labors is ours to enjoy ... THE ESSEX STORY is the product of the teamwork of the members of the professional staff of the Jewish Education Association. It is our modest contribution to the observance of the Tercentenary of Jewish life in America.