Clairvoyant Housewives

Join us this Halloween season for a special tour of 97 Orchard Street to discuss the culture of clairvoyants on the Lower East Side!

Crystal balls, tarot cards, and palm readings have become as popular on Halloween as jack-o’-lanterns, skeletons, and black cats. But do you know the history behind them? In the early 20th century, they were common objects found in neighborhoods like the Lower East Side, where clairvoyants and mind readers worked from tenement apartments. The services they offered were especially helpful to the other immigrant women adapting to life in America, who were seeking advice on love, health, businesses, and more. One of these clairvoyants, Professor Dora Meltzer, operated out of 97 Orchard Street in the 1900s. Her handbill – found beneath the floorboards of the stairs – proclaimed her to be an “unexcelled Palmist” who could tell you your past, present, and future. Join us on this special tour and see where the Museum discovered Prof. Meltzer’s advertisement and visit an early 20th century recreated apartment.

Museum Members receive a $5 discount per ticket for this program. Want to become a member or unsure if your membership is active? Email [email protected]