Living in every corner of the globe, Jewish people have maintained their ethnic and religious identity for thousands of years. Most Jews in Western Canada in the 19th century came from central and eastern Europe. They came seeking prosperity and were often fleeing persecution in their homelands.
On the surface, Jews fit in well with other European immigrants. However, lingering racial stereotypes and a society that valued Anglo–Saxon culture over any other, made Jews less welcome than British, American and Northern European immigrants.
Fort Steele, a typical 19th century boom–town, had few Jewish residents. Leon Cohn was the town's only men's tailor. Harry and Frieda Reinemann ran several hotels, including the Imperial. If you have any information about these early Kootenay pioneers, contact Fort Steele Heritage Town.
