Inside the Bikur Cholim synagogue, when empty.

Inside the Bikur Cholim synagogue, when empty

Preserving Jewish History in Washington State

Celebrating heritage, sharing history, and building community across generations.

The Washington State Jewish Historical Society (WSJHS) began in 1968 as the Seattle Jewish Archives Project, a grassroots effort to collect and preserve the stories of local Jewish life. Partnering with the University of Washington Libraries, these archives became one of the premier resources for Jewish historical research in the region. In 1981, the organization became an independent nonprofit, expanding its mission to include exhibits, programs, and community projects that highlight the vibrant contributions of Jews across Washington State—past, present, and future.

Oral Histories

Oral histories capture lived experiences, preserving cultural memory from one generation to the next. Our collection honors diverse voices and celebrates the traditions, migrations, and resilience that shape Jewish life in Washington. Our digital archive ensures that Jewish voices are preserved and remain accessible, fostering connection, education, and a deeper understanding of Washington’s Jewish history. 

See all oral histories

Register for the 2025 Annual Meeting

Join WSJHS for a Special Evening of Celebration and Community

We’re excited to invite you to our annual meeting, which will include: A speaking program, presentation of the Meta Buttnick Award, desserts and coffee, and several special announcements. 

Support our work by becoming a member today or renewing your membership. Active members can make history by participating in the voting for our newest Board of Directors. 

Click to Register

WSJHS Digital Museum

Exterior of Hoffman Cloak & Suit Company with crowd in front, Seattle, 1910

Exterior of Hoffman Cloak & Suit Company with crowd in front, Seattle, 1910
Washington State Jewish Archives

The collections of the Jewish Archives are physically housed in the Special Collections Division of the University of Washington Libraries. The Jewish Archives are a collaborative project between the UW Special Collections and WSJHS.

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Samuel Nahmias, right, and daughter Margie (late 1930s).

Samuel Nahmias, right, and daughter Margie (late 1930s)
Shalom! Sefarad

Shalom! Sefarad is a collaborative project of WSJHS and the University of Washington León Center. This exhibit was created to introduce Seattle's Sephardic life continues to flourish in the diaspora more than 500 years after Jews were expelled from Spain

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Seattle Action for Soviet Jewry participants in Freedom Sunday Mobilization for Soviet Jewry rally in Washington, D.C., December 6, 1987.

Seattle Action for Soviet Jewry participants in Freedom Sunday Mobilization for Soviet Jewry rally in Washington, D.C., December 6, 1987

Courtesy of UW Special Collections
Soviet Jewish Experience: Washington State Stories

The Soviet Jewish Experience: Washington State Stories" looks at four Seattleites whose lives were impacted by the Kremlin's restrictive emigration policies prior to the fall of the Iron Curtain. 

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Anna Borish Lustig standing in front of Borish Dry Goods store, 1702 Yesler Way, Seattle, Washington, 1916.

Anna Borish Lustig standing in front of Borish Dry Goods store, 1702 Yesler Way, Seattle, Washington, 1916

Courtesy of UW Special Collections
Sephardic Tour

The Seattle Sephardic Walking Tour, offered by the Seattle Sephardic Network in partnership with the WSJHS, explores the rich history and culture of Seattle's Sephardic Jewish community. It focuses on the Central Area, where this community once thrived, highlighting its synagogues, schools, & businesses. 

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Please Note: Our team is actively working to digitize our content. Check back soon to explore the full collection, and stay updated by joining our mailing list or following us on Facebook and Instagram.