Record Groups
Metadata
Collection |
Blumenthal Family Papers |
Object Name |
Collection |
Catalog Number |
RG-09 |
Dates of Creation |
1995 - 2004 |
Extent of Description |
0.2 linear foot (1 box) |
Admin/Biographical History |
Sol Blumenthal was born August 23, 1912 in Frankfurt-am-Main, Germany. Growing up in Germany, he fostered his love of music through his academic studies and performances. Sol debuted as an opera singer in 1936, performing at Frankfurt-am-Main's largest synagogue. During a performance, he met his wife Clare. The two married in June 1935. After Kristallnacht, Sol was arrested and deported to Buchenwald. While detained, Clare worked to free her husband, speaking with influential officials and visiting numerous agencies. She was able to secure his release six months later. The couple found sponsors in England and immigrated to the U.K. before coming to the States in 1941. Once the couple relocated, Sol finished his studies to become a cantor. The couple eventually settled in Richmond to be near their son, Benjamin. Sol died on January 13, 2004. He was preceded in death by Clare. |
Copyrights |
No restriction on use. |
Language of Material |
English. |
Scope & Content |
The Blumenthal Family Papers consist of biographical materials and family photographs, as well as newspaper clippings, claims applications, and miscellaneous documents. Biographical materials include notes from interviews conducted with Sol Blumenthal and captioned scans. These materials describe Sol's experiences growing up and during the Holocaust. Photographs of the family include captioned images of Sol and his cousins (who perished in the Holocaust). Newspaper clippings included also describe Sol's life through two articles on him and one obituary. Claims applications consist of two applications for restitutions. Finally, miscellaneous documents consist of correspondences, a musical program, and some complied pictures and captions. |
Subjects |
Frankfurt-au-Main, Germany London, England Buchenwald (concentration camp) Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, Inc. Holocaust Victim Assets Litigation |