Preserving Jewish History in Washington State
Founded in 1968, the Washington State Jewish Historical Society (WSJHS) preserves and shares the rich history and contributions of Jewish communities across Washington State. In 2026, WSJHS joined the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle, continuing its mission of connecting the past, present, and future through the stories of Washington’s Jewish community.
Integration with the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle
An Update from the Federation’s Leadership
Learn about the Washington State Jewish Historical Society’s integration into the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle and the shared commitment to preserving and engaging with the history of Jewish life in Washington. Read about the transition, what it means for the future of WSJHS, and how this new chapter will strengthen the Society’s ability to preserve and share our community’s history.
Sign up for the WSJHS Mailing List
Join Our Community and Stay Connected
Stay connected with WSJHS by signing up for our mailing list! Be the first to hear about upcoming events, new exhibits, oral history releases, and ways to get involved. Whether you're a longtime supporter or just getting to know us, our updates will keep you informed and inspired.
Twenty Years of Jewish Storytelling
Memory, Identity, and Experience
Presented by WSJHS, Twenty Years of Jewish Storytelling is an exhibit celebrating two decades of history, preservation, creativity, and community impact under longtime Executive Director Lisa Kranseler. Curated as Lisa’s legacy project, it brings together highlights from exhibits, public programs, oral histories, and publications documenting Jewish life across Washington state, while also showcasing the growth of the Washington Jewish Museum.
Oral Histories
Oral History Spotlight
Charles Alhadeff
Born in Seattle, Charles Alhadeff recalls growing up on Yesler Way; his education; his family and their various businesses; and his faith and life in Seattle's Sephardic community. Listen to his oral history at the UW Jewish Archives.
WSJHS Archive & Digital Museum
Washington State Jewish Archives
The collections of the Jewish Archives are physically housed in the Special Collections Division of the University of Washington Libraries. The Jewish Archives are a collaborative project between the UW Special Collections and WSJHS.
Digital Exhibits & Collections
The Washington Jewish Museum is the first of its kind in Washington State, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Jewish life in the region. It explores the community’s past and present through oral histories, photographs, and archival materials. As an online platform, it honors the stories, memories, lives, and events that continue to shape Jewish identity and experience in Washington.
Stories of Jewish Washingtonians
This collection showcases the lives and experiences of Jewish Washingtonians whose stories have significantly contributed to shaping the state's landscape. Each profile offers a personal window into the individual's life, delving into their family, work, resilience, creativity, and connections across generations. Explore these individual journeys to discover the diverse voices that make up Jewish Washington’s story.