A Portion of the People

"Until 1830 Charleston was the capital of American Jewry; Christians in South Carolina elected the first professing Jew to office; Reform Judaism first came to the United States in the Palmetto State. These and many other fascinating facts are explored in this handsome treasure trove, a "must-read" for anybody interested in the complex relationship of Jews and the South. Theodore and Dale Rosengarten have lovingly and movingly compiled a masterpiece, a delight for both the mind and the eye."—Philip Morgan, Johns Hopkins University

"This magnificent volume surveys the complexities of Jewish life in South Carolina from Simon Valentine, naturalized in 1697, to the contemporary black Jewish police chief, Reuben Greenberg, a proud member of his Conservative synagogue. Luminous essays complement an imaginative, well-rounded collection of historic paintings, precious family heirlooms, and unforgettable contemporary photographs. A superb job!"—Jonathan D. Sarna, Brandeis University

"This handsome volume, with its lively text and evocative illustrations, illuminates a significant phase of American religious history. The book thereby brings to life an important southern community, whose antecedents will interest scholars and general readers alike. Anyone fascinated by the rich mosaic that makes up America's multicultural society will find its essays a pleasure to read."—Oscar Handlin, Harvard University

"A superb companion to a landmark exhibition, the extraordinarily well documented A Portion of the People is an engaging and insightful chronicle of Carolina Jewry. Celebrating the freedoms and opportunities offered to Jews, and their many achievements, the authors also squarely confront issues of slavery, subsequent race relations, and the challenging realities Jews faced as they sought acceptance in southern society."—Grace Cohen Grossman, Skirball Cultural Center and Museum