This is a package of Hebrew National hotdogs. The Hebrew National Kosher Sausage Factory, Inc., was founded on East Broadway, on the Lower East Side of Manhattan in 1905. The company was founded by Theodore Krainin, my great great uncle, who emigrated from the Russian Empire (now Belarus) in the 1880s. It was not the big name company you see lining grocery stores today, but merely a storefront on one of the most popular streets in Manhattan. As a first generation immigrant, it was difficult to start up your own business, but Theodore found a way. His products - tasty hotdogs - were enjoyed by both Jewish and non Jewish people. An article written about the company states that “The right product at the right time gave Hebrew National All Beef Sausages a household name. Krainin was applauded for his commitment to selling only the best Kosher hot dogs.”(History Of New York's Hebrew National Hotdogs - ClassicNewYorkHistory.com ) The business was beloved by many New Yorkers, and considered an excellent spot to grab a bite to eat back in the day. In 1934, during economic hardship around the time of the great depression, Theodore sold the company to Conagra foods inc, closing a chapter of my lineage. This object connects to my American pastime by telling the story of my ancestors immigration, and the impact that has been left behind. In total, it sums up a key piece of my Jewish heritage and the first line of my family that reached America. 

– Micah Woolever

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more