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Dr. Ben Nachman began the Oral History program by interviewing individuals in all aspects of our Jewish life. He recorded and interviewed over 500 individuals before his death in 2010

A biography of Rose Blumkin, the founder of Nebraska Furniture Mart with audio, photographic and anecdotal information. From her home in Russia to the incredible business she established in Omaha. Rose achieved national recognition for the successful management of a small family business that became a multi-million dollar enterprises and part of Warren Buffett’s financial empire.

The Brandeis Department Store at the corner of 16th & Dodge, originally called the Boston Store, was started in 1881 by Jonas L. Brandeis. The Brandeis family built a grand downtown emporium fashioned after the larger east coast department stores. They were at their peak during the 1970’s when retail chains were expanding. Brandeis had 15 stores located throughout the Midwest. The NJHS Society has a photograph and video history of this enduring story

Louis Friedman came to Omaha over a century ago and purchased a small family-owned jewelry store in downtown Omaha he called Borsheims. His philosophy was to offer an extensive inventory and exceptional customer service along with quality merchandise. The business grew to become one of the largest jewelry stores in the nation. It is still run by Louis’ descendants and is also a part of Warren Buffett’s financial empire.

A songwriter, born in Omaha to Mollie and Morris Rosenblatt in 1905 credits include: “Baby’s Birthday Party”, “Rain on the Roof” and “Willow, Weep for Me”. One of her songs, “Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?” written for a Disney cartoon is still heard around the world. She was music director on many films and wrote the scores for “Champagne Waltz (1937), “Aligiers” (1938), “The Story of G.I. Joe” (1945) and “Love Happy” (1949). Ronell died in 1993 at the age of 85.

The son of immigrants Philip Kluznick grew up in Kansas City, Missouri and received a law degree from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He served as head of the Federal Housing Authority under President Roosevelt, Secretary of Commerce under Jimmy Carter, President of B’nai Brith International, and the World Jewish Congress during various stages of his career.