Kaufman, Louise Kemler_2006, Oral History

Please replace digital file for partial transcript once a full transcript is obtained.

This interview covers history of The Emanuel both in Hartford and West Hartford, though by the time Louise came along the congregation had moved. Her grandfather, Lewis Kemler, was one of the founders of The Emanuel in 1919, the same year her father, R. Leonard Kemler was born. Her father was later a founding member at Beth El, which split from The Emanuel, however he remained a member of The Emanuel because of a feeling of loyalty (both of his parents died while he was young and the synagogue was like his family.

Kaufman mentions many people associated with both congregations (particularly concerning the split), gives insight into her Hebrew school experiences as well as her family's observance, as well as different developments in the architecture at the West Hartford building, including renovations and a fire.