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Abraham and Frieda Wolper Papers

 Collection
Identifier: P-531

Scope and Content Note

This collection contains letters sent to the Wolpers denouncing their petition. Many of the letters are anti-Semitic in nature, arguing that the Wolpers are anti-American and should go back to Russia. Newspaper clippings about the petition and letters to the School Board, including the one withdrawing the petition, are included.

Dates

  • 1949

Creator

Language of Materials

The collection is in English.

Access Restrictions

This collection is open for researcher use. Please contact us to request access or to make an appointment to view this collection at jhcreference@nehgs.org.

Use Restrictions

There may be some restrictions on the use of this collection. For more information contact jhcreference@nehgs.org.

Biographical Note

Abraham and Frieda Wolper were Jewish parents in Chelsea, Massachusetts. In 1949, the Wolpers submitted a petition with the school board about Christmas carols and displays of Christmas pageants in public schools. Criticism from Jews and non-Jews, including virulently anti-Semitic correspondence sent to the Wolpers, forced them to withdraw their petition.

Extent

0.25 linear feet (1 half manuscript box)

Abstract

The Wolpers were a Jewish family from Chelsea, Massachusetts. In 1949, they issued a petition to the school board, raising concerns about Christmas carols and pageants in public schools. The resulting negative criticism from Jews and non-Jews, as well as the anti-Semitic letters sent to the Wolpers, eventually caused them to remove the petition. The collection includes the letters sent to the Wolpers, as well as newspaper clippings and correspondence with the school board.

Physical Location

Located in Boston, Mass.

Acquisition Information

Acquisition information unknown.

Processing Information

Reprocessed by Stephanie Call, 2009

Title
Guide to Abraham and Frieda Wolper Papers, P-531
Author
Reprocessed by Stephanie Call
Date
2009
Language of description
Undetermined
Script of description
Code for undetermined script
Sponsor
Processed by Stephanie Call, Schilder Assistant Archivist, made possible by a grant from the Schilder Family Fund. This collection has been digitized, made possible by a grant from the Trustees u/w of Herman Dana.

Repository Details

Part of the Wyner Family Jewish Heritage Center at American Ancestors Repository

Contact:
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Boston MA 02116 United States
617-226-1245