Write a commentWhile everyone fought the March chill on Saturday afternoon, dozens of enthusiasts braved the weather to hear Ann Callaghan Allen talk about her new book, Holocaust Refugees in Oswego: From Nazi Europe to Lake Ontario.
Most books on this topic focus on the plight of the refugees, but Allen wrote her book from a different perspective. She focused on the relationships between Oswegonians and the refugees, with plenty of stories that showcase the humanitarian side of Oswego.
Allen discussed the roles of community leaders, educators, and everyday citizens who gave a part of themselves to help the new residents adapt to life in the US, in Oswego. She spoke about the aide who came into the fort when the refugees first entered. How people began tossing things over the fence and began building friendships at the fence.
At the time of the refugees’ arrival on August 5, 1944, antisemitic views were not uncommon, but the vast majority of residents in Oswego rose above and went far beyond many of that day. The author showed in her book how our citizens boldly accepted and encouraged those at the fort to live again after escaping persecution in war-torn Europe, to find careers, to make homes, and to trust in humanity once again.
Holocaust Refugees in Oswego shows the strength and caliber of character that the people in our community possessed. A must-read for any history buff or current resident of the area—and those beyond. Grab your copy today from river’s end bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or Amazon.
