Straus Historical Society

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Straus Historical Society Welcome to the Straus Historical Society
page! The history of the Straus family is part of world history. It is written for the present.

The Straus Historical Society fosters educational activities with respect to the settlement of Jews in the United States and, in particular, the family of Lazarus and Sara Straus, their ancestors and their descendants. The focus of the Society's activities on the Straus Family is based on the family's involvement in government, commerce, and philanthropy. It provokes discussion, imagination and creation. It ties the present with the past and draws pathways to the future. Visit the Straus Room at the Rutgers University Virtual Museum of Public Service: www.vmps.us/straus-family

Today, the Straus Historical Society recognizes Indigenous Peoples’ Day and honors the rich histories, cultures, traditi...
10/12/2026

Today, the Straus Historical Society recognizes Indigenous Peoples’ Day and honors the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and enduring contributions of Indigenous peoples.

As an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing history, we recognize the importance of listening to Indigenous voices and learning from the many communities whose histories are an essential part of the story of our nation.

Today—and throughout the year—we encourage everyone to learn, reflect, and celebrate Indigenous history and heritage.

On German-American Day, we’re looking back at the Straus family’s journey from Germany to the United States—and the rema...
10/06/2026

On German-American Day, we’re looking back at the Straus family’s journey from Germany to the United States—and the remarkable legacy they built here.

The family’s story began with immigration and entrepreneurship, as members of the Straus family established themselves in American commerce. In the generations that followed, they made their mark far beyond business, contributing to public service, philanthropy, the arts, and American culture.

From Lazarus and Sara Straus to later generations, their story reflects the many ways immigrants and their descendants have helped shape American life while carrying elements of their heritage with them.

Today, we celebrate the German-American experience and the enduring connections between heritage, opportunity, and service.

In 1931, during the depths of the Great Depression, New York Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Jesse Isidor Strau...
10/01/2026

In 1931, during the depths of the Great Depression, New York Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Jesse Isidor Straus to lead the Temporary Emergency Relief Administration (TERA). Jesse was charged with administering a $20 million fund to provide relief for unemployed New Yorkers during the coming winter.

Jesse helped organize the new agency and appointed Harry L. Hopkins as its executive director. He believed deeply that people facing unemployment wanted “work, and not charity.” His service is a powerful example of the importance of leadership, compassion, and public service during times of economic crisis.

Read more about Jesse Isidor Straus and his work with TERA in the February 2005 Straus Historical Society Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/wHSRL

On European Day of Languages, we’re celebrating the many languages preserved in the archives of the Straus Historical So...
09/26/2026

On European Day of Languages, we’re celebrating the many languages preserved in the archives of the Straus Historical Society. Our collections include correspondence and documentation in French, German, Old German, Hebrew, and Yiddish, reflecting the diverse communities, cultures, and places connected to the Straus family.

These documents offer more than historical information—they provide a glimpse into the lives, relationships, and journeys of generations of the family. By preserving materials in their original languages, SHS helps keep these stories and voices alive. Sometimes, a single letter can open a window into an entire world.

Today, the Straus Historical Society celebrates the first day of fall!As the leaves begin to change and the days grow sh...
09/22/2026

Today, the Straus Historical Society celebrates the first day of fall!

As the leaves begin to change and the days grow shorter, autumn invites us to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of the season—and the traditions and stories that connect generations.

From crisp afternoons to colorful foliage, may this new season bring opportunities to gather with family and friends, discover something new, and enjoy the simple pleasures of fall.

Happy First Day of Fall from the Straus Historical Society!

On Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, the Straus Historical Society joins Jewish communities around the world in a day of...
09/20/2026

On Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, the Straus Historical Society joins Jewish communities around the world in a day of reflection, repentance, and remembrance.

Yom Kippur offers an opportunity to look inward, seek forgiveness, and consider how we can bring greater kindness, compassion, and purpose into the year ahead.

May this solemn day bring peace, reflection, and renewal to all who observe.

G’mar Chatimah Tovah.

From September 15 through October 15, the Straus Historical Society joins communities across the country in celebrating ...
09/15/2026

From September 15 through October 15, the Straus Historical Society joins communities across the country in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.

This month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the rich history, cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States and around the world.

As an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing history, we are reminded that our nation's story is made richer by the many communities and cultures that have shaped it.

We invite our friends and followers to take this month to learn, listen, celebrate, and discover the stories that connect us all.

As we welcome Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, the Straus Historical Society wishes our friends, supporters, scholars...
09/11/2026

As we welcome Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, the Straus Historical Society wishes our friends, supporters, scholars, and community a year filled with peace, health, happiness, and new beginnings.

Rosh Hashanah is a time for reflection on the year past and hope for the year ahead—a time to celebrate family, community, and the traditions that connect generations.

May the coming year bring peace and sweetness to all.

Shana Tova U’Metukah!

Today, the Straus Historical Society joins people across the country in remembering September 11, 2001.We remember the t...
09/11/2026

Today, the Straus Historical Society joins people across the country in remembering September 11, 2001.

We remember the thousands of lives lost, the families and communities forever changed, and the courage and compassion shown by first responders, volunteers, and ordinary people in the days that followed.

On this solemn anniversary, we honor those who were taken from us and those who continue to carry their memory. May we never forget the lives they lived, the people they loved, and the enduring importance of compassion, service, and community.

We remember. We honor. We will never forget.

Looking for your next great read? For Read a Book Day, the Straus Historical Society is pleased to announce that we are ...
09/06/2026

Looking for your next great read? For Read a Book Day, the Straus Historical Society is pleased to announce that we are once again offering A Titanic Love Story by June Hall McCash for sale!

This beautifully researched book tells the remarkable story of Isidor and Ida Straus—from their childhoods as German Jewish immigrants in America, to their rise from humble beginnings in Georgia to becoming part of the family behind Macy’s Department Store.

But A Titanic Love Story is about much more than business and the Titanic. McCash explores Ida and Isidor’s life together as partners, parents, philanthropists, and members of their community. It highlights Ida’s own accomplishments and contributions alongside Isidor’s public career, offering a fuller picture of the remarkable couple they were.

Their story is one of love, family, perseverance, service, and compassion—and their final journey aboard the Titanic has ensured that their devotion to one another remains one of the most enduring stories of the disaster.

Get your own copy of A Titanic Love Story from the Straus Historical Society and discover the remarkable lives behind the legend: https://shorturl.at/rNoBb

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Post Office Box 416
Smithtown, NY
11787

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+16317244487

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