The project of the permanent digital exhibition “First Families”
The First Families Project aims to document and perpetuate the family legacy of the founders of the Jewish yishuv in Israel by involving the descendants and families of the founders.
The project is based on the creation of an extensive genealogical database containing detailed family trees of the founders of the Jewish yishuv, supplemented by historical references and archival materials. This digital platform will allow users to research their family tree and restore lost connections to famous figures who contributed to the establishment of Israel.
Historical background of the project
The project is based on David Tidhar’s Encyclopedia of Pioneers and Sons of the Yishuv, which contains comprehensive biographical information about the founders of the State of Israel. These materials are supplemented with data from the Encyclopedia of Russian Jewry (Brockhaus and Efron, 1911), as well as information from memorial books, community archives, censuses, and rabbinic sources.
The research part of the project involves reconstructing the family ties between the founding families and their descendants living today. Particular attention is paid to founders with roots in the Russian Empire, Poland and the former Soviet Union, as this is where most of the Jews who played a key role in the creation of the Jewish yishuv originated.
JewAge genealogy platform
The project integrates with jewage.org, a platform founded in 2008 by the Am haZikaron Institute. This resource offers users the opportunity to collectively build family trees, research their roots, upload archival documents and connect with relatives.
JewAge utilizes the principles of Wikipedia, allowing users to edit and expand genealogical data. The project involves researchers to ensure the accuracy of the information.
Significance of the project
- Linking Generations. Descendants of the founders will be able to establish their connection to famous figures of Jewish history.
- Community Involvement. Involving families in reconstructing history will strengthen Jewish identity and interest in roots.
- National Significance. Recognizing one’s belonging to the family of Israel’s founder will foster a sense of pride and national identity.
Technological realization
The project involves digitalization of data and active promotion in social networks, including Facebook and Twitter. An interactive interface will be created to allow users to participate in the recovery of family histories and find relatives.
Project Stages
The project will run for 5 years (2022-2026) and includes the following phases:
- Transferring information from historical sources to JewAge.
- Creation of 200 genealogy trees per year.
- Ensuring that participants interact with the research team.
- Promotion of the project through social networks and media.
- Publication of materials in the public domain.
The project is a continuation of the successful 2014 initiative that restored 150 family trees. The new phase will create at least 1,000 new genealogies and unite tens of thousands of people.