Streets of Change: How Urban Renewal
Shaped Jewish Life in Portland’s East End

Thursday, May 15, 2025
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

In the 1930s, Portland was home to over 600 Jewish households, with kosher markets, clothing stores and three synagogues dotting the streets of the diverse neighborhood. Decisions made by city government and the practice of “red-lining” in the early part of the 20th century, however, changed Portland’s East End forever. Houses and businesses surrounding the area were torn down to make way for new buildings and traffic patterns, and the streets that once connected the community were severed.

Join us for a Lunch and Learn Panel Discussion on how the major changes to the layout of Portland’s streets made a drastic impact on the century-old patterns of Portland’s Jewish life. Bring your own lunch (vegetarian to be respectful of our synagogue please).

Photo Credit: Maine Historical Society, 1924 Tax Records, 59 Franklin Street

Registration is free but required.

Registration