Researching Businesses in Our Collections

Many Jewish immigrants came to the United States seeking better opportunities for them and their families. Establishing businesses—whether as peddlers, small shopkeepers, or owners of larger companies—was a common way to build financial security and develop community belonging. In New England, Jews operated dry goods stores, bakeries, clothing, and furniture stores, often in their own communities. On Massachusetts' North Shore, Peabody and Lynn became centers of leather and shoe manufacturing, providing local jobs and economic stability. Throughout the region, Jews founded and ran well-known businesses including Stop & Shop, Building 19, Filene’s, and Charrette. 

For all collections in the JHC Archives related to this subject, click on the link below:

Doing Business in America: A Jewish History (Editorial Introduction) by Hasia Diner
Prominent Companies Founded by American Jews - Jewish Virtual Library
City of Boston Archives
Harvard Business School Baker Library Collections & Archives