Oral History Archive

The story within living memory of Sandys Row Synagogue is an important part of this project. Volunteers have received training from oral historian and project manager Rachel Lichtenstein on how to record audio testimony. Sandys Row members past and present have shared their stories, focusing on memories of life and events at the synagogue and the many changes that have taken place over the years in the Spitalfields area, which has transformed beyond recognition during the lifetime of our interviewees from the vibrant Jewish quarter they experienced as children to the bustling international tourist zone it is today. Excerpts of a small selection of these interviews are available to listen to here. The full oral history recordings, along with summaries and transcripts have been deposited at the Bishopsgate Institute Archives and are available for the public to access in the  Reading Room.

If you are a former member of Sandys Row Synagogue or lived in the area and have memories you would like to share for this project please do get in touch.