Smolensk is the administrative center of the Smolensk province of western Russia. The city dates back to the 9th century. Jews are first mentioned in the city in late 15th century. By the end of the 19th century, there were about 4,600 Jews in the town (10% of the total population). Before the start of the war, there about 13,000 Jews in the city (over 8% of the total population). By the time of the German occupation at the end of July, 1941, most of the Jews had fled the city. By July, 1942, all the remaining Jews had been killed.
The postcard below depicts the synagogue in Smolensk. This synagogue was confiscated by the Soviet government in 1922.
Encyclopedia Judaica, CD-Rom Edition, Keter Publishing
Museum of Tolerance On Line Learning Center
Copyright © 2003 Edward Victor