Southwest Jewish History

 

Volume 3, Number 1, p. 1

The Preservation of Jewish History

by Melissa I. Amado

David and Leona Bloom photographed in 1991 by Mary Goodman

David and Leona (Lee) Bloom are more than just a name on the Archives sign. They are real Tucsonans, who cherish not only Arizona history but also Southwestern Jewish history. The Blooms' financial generosity helped to establish our unique archives. The Bloom Southwest Jewish Archives is focused on preserving pioneer Jewish history. As you will read in the following pages, the archives is undergoing many changes to improve our informational services.

The Archives would like to share some of the Bloom family history in Tucson (see related story "The Stone Avenue Temple Project"). David's grandmother, Therese Ferrin, and his mother, Clara Ferrin Bloom, were members of the Hebrew Ladies' Aid Society. They helped raise funds for the original Temple Emanu-El and this was the Territory of Arizona's first synagogue. The industrious ladies of the society sent out donation request letters and even held a Christmas bazaar to help raise funds.

Jews and non-Jews contributed to the establishment of the original Temple Emanu-El. I have a special interest in the original Temple Emanu-El building. My great-great grandparents' home and family compound is across the street from the old synagogue building. The Tucson Women's Symphony Association, as well as private citizens, have restored these buildings and are now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Tucson has a strong history of Jews and non-Jews working together to build a community for everyone to appreciate. Our donors and staff members at the Bloom Southwest Jewish Archives reflects this diversity of everyone working together for the good of preserving history.