Learn about the Rogarshevsky’s, a Jewish American family who lived in 97 Orchard Street in the 1910s.
This Family Story is part of our Upper Elementary Unit Plan. You can view the full unit plan here.
This Family Story is part of our Upper Elementary Unit Plan. You can view the full unit plan here.
This article shares the story of the Rogarshevsky family—the parents, Fannie and Abraham, raised six children in 97 Orchard Street, balancing work, family, and their religious faith. Students consider the difficulties of factory work for teenage Bessie Rogarshevsky, and learn about labor unions, working conditions, and the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory through Bessie’s perspective. Primary sources include a census record from 1900, a factory photograph from 1910, and a photograph of women on strike in 1911. The teacher guide includes student-facing questions and writing activities.
1910s
See the type of work an immigrant family from the early 20th century, The Rogarshevskys, are doing based on this census.
View a garment factory that employed many young immigrant women in the early 20th century.
Look at two women fighting for better working conditions in the garment industry in 1911.
The materials on this page can enrich a visit to the Museum or help you teach about immigration. If you have questions or comments, please e-mail us.
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