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Community Corner

Afternoon Discussion Series

Building Beacon Hill and the West End

In our first of two summertime discussions, we're going to get to know the North Slope of Beacon Hill and the West End from the ground up! 

Learn about and discuss how these neighborhoods - all affectionately considered the West End 100 years ago when the Vilna Shul was built - and how they transformed over time. We'll look at maps, images, oral histories, and even art so that we can all better know the neighborhood the Vilna calls home. 

If weather permits, we will meet on our beautiful patio. Feel free to bring your lunch or coffee to enjoy with the group. Light snacks will be provided. (Please help us observe basic kashrut with no mixing of meat and dairy or eating of pork or shellfish. Thank you!)

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Immigrant Communities: Beacon Hill and the West End in the Early 1900's

In our second of two summertime discussions, we're going to get to know what immigrant life was like in Beacon Hill and the West End. 

Learn about and discuss what life was like for the Jewish and other immigrants who came to call these neighborhoods home a century ago. We will look in depth at the Jewish experience and have time to share stories of personal experiences as well.

Find out what's happening in Somervillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

If weather permits, we will meet on our beautiful patio. Feel free to bring your lunch or coffee to enjoy with the group. Light snacks will be provided. (Please help us observe basic kashrut with no mixing of meat and dairy or eating of pork or shellfish. Thank you!)

This event is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated, but not required.

The Vilna Shul is a 5 minute walk from the Charles/MGH stop on the Red Line and parking is available nearby for $5 with validation at the front desk. You must have a green ticket to validate. See our directions page for details.

For questions and concerns please email Jessica at info [at] vilnashul.org or call (617)523-2324.

As we are in the process of restoring our historic space, it is not yet fully accessible to persons with disabilities. If you need assistance to gain access to our building, please let us know.

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