Genistory

Fishel Mendelson, born in 1861 in Ukraine, epitomizes resilience as an immigrant. Emigrating to the United States with his family in 1913, they faced socioeconomic challenges and discrimination in both Ukraine and New York. His legacy highlights the immigrant experience of adaptation and perseverance, impacting subsequent generations through hope and determination.

Peter Lazarevitz was born on December 15, 1859, in Minsk, Belarus, and emigrated to the United States in 1886. He was a prominent businessman in Pittsburgh, engaging in charitable activities and religious organizations. Despite financial difficulties and legal disputes, he persevered and established himself in real estate and later in Atlanta, where he passed away in 1907.

Pasi Mendelson was born in Nesterivka, Russia, in 1889, and immigrated to the US in 1912. Starting as a cap maker in Harlem, he later ran hotels in Liberty, New York, Lakewood, New Jersey, and Miami, Florida. Pasi and Rachel, his wife, worked tirelessly, eventually retiring near Miami Beach. Pasi died in 1967 at the age of 80.

Joseph Alexander Newmeyer was born in Paris, France, in 1887 to Russian immigrants David Newmeyer and Sophie Katz. Confusion surrounds his paternity and immigration to the US. In 1910, Joseph married Diana Labowitz and had two children. Tragically, he died of pneumonia at age 31. His death coincided with the Spanish Flu pandemic.

Gilda Reiss Pollak was born in Newark, New Jersey, on October 3, 1880. She was a devoted wife, mother, and active member of Temple Israel of Jamaica. Gilda’s life was characterized by her commitment to family and community, as seen through her various roles and contributions to the temple’s activities and events. She passed away on October 3, 1959, at the age of 78 in Jamaica, Queens, New York.

Philip Pollak, born in 1846 in Bohemia, later moved to the United States and established Pollak Brothers, a successful picture and frame business in Connecticut. The family’s journey, business ventures, addresses, and significant events are detailed through the late 1800s into the early 1900s. His life and contributions are noteworthy in Waterbury’s history.

Joseph Lazear, a prominent figure in Atlanta’s Jewish community, was an influential leader and businessman deeply involved in various civic and social organizations. He founded the Jewish Progressive Club, played key roles in the American Business Club and the Fulton Lodge, and dedicated himself to philanthropic and political causes. Despite experiencing personal and professional challenges, including bankruptcy and health issues, Lazear’s impact and contributions to Atlanta endure through the organizations he helped shape and lead. His legacy lives on through the continued use of the Jewish Progressive Club building, which later became part of the Techwood Campus and famously housed CNN.

Irving Mendelson, a revered figure in sports and business, was born in Manhattan in 1920. He excelled in football at the University of Pennsylvania, distinguished himself in the U.S. Army during WWII, and achieved success in the business world. His life was marked by resilience and a commitment to fostering the next generation of athletes.

Tillie (Toba) Shulman, born in Lithuania in 1864, immigrated to the United States in 1887 with her husband. They settled in Philadelphia and had several children. Tillie remained in the city, facing economic hardships during the Great Depression, until her passing in 1947. She was buried in Mt. Lebanon Cemetery.

Diana Labowitz, born in 1891, faced significant challenges in her life, including the loss of her first husband to the Spanish Flu and navigating the economic turmoil of the Great Depression. Despite this, she supported her family through various retail jobs, leaving a legacy of strength and determination. Her perseverance had a lasting impact on her family and community.