Institute of Texan Cultures' Texans Series
Jewish Texans came from many countries, not just one. Most early Jewish settlers in the late 1800s and early 1900s came from Germany and eastern European countries, such as Russia, Poland, Lithuania, and Austria-Hungary. A few came from countries like Spain, Mexico and Syria. They all spoke different languages.
Although they came from different places, the Jewish people are alike in many ways. They share a history and religion passed down from an ancient group of people who lived in Canaan, now Israel. Their holy book, the Torah, is written in Hebrew, a language of those people from Canaan.
Almost 2,000 years ago, the Jews had to leave their homeland. They settled in many different parts of the world and took their customs with them. In some countries they were not allowed to practice their religion. Many Jews who wished to keep their Jewish customs and traditions came to Texas.
Handbook of Texas
- JewsWritten by Rabbi James L. Kessler, this article details the history of Jews in Texas from the Spanish times to present.
Encyclopedia of Southern Jewish Communities
- Texas Jewish CommunitiesThis site gives encyclopedic entries that detail the history and impact of Jews within communities across Texas.
Selected Books
The Chosen Folks: Jews on the Frontier of Texas by Call Number: F395.J5 S76 2010- Deep in the Heart: The Lives and Legends of Texas Jews byCall Number: F395 .J5 W55 1990 (ITC Library
- The Jews of Houston: An Ethnographic Study byCall Number: F394.H89 J515 1989
Pioneer Jewish Texans by E-book- The Schwartz Family of El Paso: The Story of a Pioneer Jewish Family in the Southwest byCall Number: F394 .E4F53
Organizations
- Barshop Jewish Cultural Center of San AntonioFor more than 135 years, the JCC has developed an outstanding reputation as a “birth through life” institution providing exceptional programs and services to individuals and families of all ages and stages from both the Jewish and wider communities.
Located in the heart of San Antonio, we inspire Jewish Journeys and provide countless opportunities for San Antonians to Live Up – to their goals, their aspirations, and their potential – through a variety of programming including Health & Wellness, Sports & Recreation, Arts & Culture, Education & Enrichment, and so much more. - Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Cultural Center of HoustonSince 1936 the J has been a place where families and individuals come together for friendship, affiliation and socialization in a safe and welcoming environment. Throughout our buildings, one will find a committed staff working together to provide our members and guests with quality experiences, excellent service and a sense of belonging.
- Jewish Federation of Greater DallasThe Federation is the central coordinating fundraising agency for the Dallas Jewish community. It is the one place where philanthropy, volunteerism and shared commitment come together to make a difference in the community and the world. From hometown to homeland, Federation brings life-saving and life-sustaining care to Jews in need in Dallas and overseas.
- Shalom AustinShalom Austin is the hub of Jewish life in Central Texas. Through our cultural values, we provide services and resources to connect, empower and impact the community locally, nationally and around the world.
- Texas Jewish Historical SocietyThis society is dedicated to furthering the knowledge of Jewish heritage. They have had impact by creating historical markers, preserving Jewish cemeteries, and expanding research.