The exhibit is arranged chronologically, with Margaret and Arthur’s journey during the Holocaust running parallel to the historical events depicted in each case alongside the broader historical context. Their experiences serve as a model that reflects those of Jewish individuals before, during, and after the Holocaust.
Positioned beneath the overarching historical narrative, their personal account provides a relatable perspective drawn from our own community, capturing the broader historical tragedy.
Display 1
Jewish Life Between the Two World Wars
You will learn about:
the vibrant Jewish life and culture between the World Wars
the socio-economic and cultural dynamics within Jewish communities
the factors contributing to the rise of Nazi power and its impact on Jewish life
Display 2
Nazi Antisemitic Ideology
You will learn about:
the core tenets of Nazi antisemitic ideology
the role of high-ranking Nazis in propagating and enforcing antisemitic policies
the implementation of Nazi antisemitic policies across Europe
Display 3
Isolation, Ghettos, Forced Labor, Systematic Mass Murder, Resistance, and Rescue
You will learn about:
the isolation and segregation of Jewish communities into ghettos
the brutal realities of forced labor imposed on Jewish populations
the systematic mass murder orchestrated by the Nazi regime
the stories of resistance and acts of rescue amidst the atrocities
Display 4
Deportations & Extermination Camps
You will learn about:
the journey of deportations to extermination camps
the harrowing conditions and mechanisms of mass extermination
Display 5
Liberation
You will learn about:
the liberation of survivors and the end of Nazi tyranny
the immense difficulties and pain experienced by survivors
the role of Canadian Armed Forces in the liberation of the Netherlands
Display 6
Displaced Persons Camps, Anti-Jewish Violence Post-Liberation, International Recognition, and the State of Israel
You will learn about:
the challenges faced by survivors in displaced persons camps
the persistence of anti-Jewish violence post-liberation
the path to international recognition of the Holocaust and the establishment of the State of Israel
Display 7
Arriving to Canada, Jewish Hamilton, & Establishing a New Life
You will learn about:
the experiences of Holocaust survivors arriving in Canada
Display 8
Jewish Hamilton Today
You will learn about:
the vibrant Jewish community thriving in Hamilton today
the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Jewish residents to the city's development
the legacy of the Jewish community in creating a flourishing and diverse Hamilton