The History of the Jewish Community of Northern Virginia

Featuring authors Susan and Shawn Dilles

In partnership with the Pozez JCC and Temple Rodef Shalom

The first Jews arrived in Virginia during colonial times and have lived in Northern Virginia for over 175 years. One of the first footholds was Alexandria where Beth El Hebrew Congregation was established. Over time immigrants came from Germany and Eastern Europe and took up residence as far east as Arlington, south as Fredericksburg, and northwest along Route 7 as far as Winchester, with livelihoods in retail trade and selling scrap. Today the area is home to over 120,000 Jews, surpassing the number in the older D.C. and Maryland communities.

The J and its partners are delighted to bring Susan and Shawn Dilles to talk about their book, The Jewish Community of Northern Virginia, which uses rarely seen photographs selected from historical archives, Jewish institutions, and residents with deep family roots in the area. The book chronicles the rich narratives and history of this lively, diverse, and growing community, from the late 19th Century to the present, shedding light on the variety of ways that Virginia Jews express their heritage and culture.

The Jewish Community of Northern Virginia will be for sale and signing at the event for $20 (payable by cash or check only). It can be purchased by credit card online on Amazon.

Register: https://forms.gle/P2NQNQZ5KeQW5XcS8