The Levine Family Story

Learn about the Levine family, a Jewish American family who lived in 97 Orchard Street in the 1890s.

Overview

This article explores the life of Harris and Jennie Levine and their five U.S.-born children, who lived through the Industrial Revolution in New York City. Students explore Harris’ work running a small garment factory in his family’s apartment, and how the family maintained their culture and Jewish religious practices in a new place. The teacher guide includes student-facing questions and writing activities.

Time Period

1890s

Related Topics

• Garment Industry
• Industrial Revolution
• Cultural Adaptation

Primary Sources

• 1900 Census – Gather information about the Levines, a family who immigrated from the Russian Empire in 1890, with the 1900 census. (See below)
• 1892 Factory Inspection Report – Learn the ins and outs of the garment factory the Levine family ran out of their own home. (See below)
• 1898 Photograph of Orchard Street – Imagine the sights, smells, and sounds of the lower east side in 1898. (See below)

Associated Lessons