For many visitors, the “Book of the Jewish People” sculpture is the most memorable part of Nashville’s Holocaust Memorial. The enormous bronze book features pages that are twisted and burned with a large section of pages torn out from the middle. The Book is designed to reflect our history as well as our future as a Jewish community. Its designer and sculptor, Alex Limor, created it in honor of his father Irvin, who survived the Holocaust and settled in Nashville after the war. Irvin was an iron-working sculptor, and such a book was his lifelong dream. He and his wife, Elizabeth, were among the pioneers of Holocaust education and remembrance in Nashville. The Limor family were among the original founders of the Memorial in 2006.
Over its 18 years, the Nashville Holocaust Memorial has become the address where hatred is challenged as we welcome every visitor. Our goals are to educate and create a much-needed spark of respect and compassion.
We have welcomed and educated thousands of groups and individuals including:
elected officials, educators, senior groups, Nashville tourists, university students, Church groups, Metro police officers, scout troops, and a Jewish women’s motorcycle group.
In 2022, Alex created an artistic Butterfly Tree to enhance the Memorial and intended to remember the 1.5 million children killed in the Holocaust. His most recent contribution is a three-panel sign that more clearly marks the entrance to the sculpture garden and Memorial site.
On the chai (18th) anniversary of the Memorial, the community is honoring Alex for his artistry, dedication and numerous contributions, including giving tours to countless visitors.
Please join our Nashviile community now as we recognize and honor Alex for creating a meaningful and beautiful Nashville Holocaust Memorial on the grounds of the Gordon Jewish Community Center.
Life has taught us time and time again, that what each of us does matters. That together we are more powerful than we can be alone. Our community built our Nashville Holocaust Memorial and we are proud of our accomplishments. But, in today’s world we have so much work that must still be done. Help us update and improve our Memorial. We have a goal to raise $200,000.
The celebration is a luncheon on Sunday, May 5, from 1:00pm to 2:30pm at the Gordon JCC, immediately followed by the annual Yom Hashoah commemoration. Chairs are Bobbie Limor and Emily May. Honorary Chairs are Moshe and Libby Werthan. Invitations will be sent via mail to the entire community.
For more information on the event, or to arrange a docent-led tour of the site, email NashvilleHolocaustMemorial@gmail.com.
Please join us to Commemorate the 18th Anniversary of the Nashville Holocaust Memorial and to Honor Alex Limor. Kindly respond by April 20 when you receive your invitation.
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