The journey of the Jewish diaspora has had an immense impact on the development of modern world politics, economics and culture. Many modern Jews can trace their roots back to distant lands far from their current home. These journeys permeate generations, passed down through treasured stories, objects and photographs. Where did your family's journey begin? What is your diaspora story? Share your journey below and include a family photograph, home video or image of a special heirloom that represents your own Story of the Jews.

Robbin Leon Cowen (Cohen)

Hunt, TX, United States

The story in the family is that my great grandfather, Simon Cohen, came to the US from Poland in about 1860. He was born in Pazin on April 27,1835. Supposedly during an epidemic he pretended to be dead and was carted off for burial & sneaked aboard a ship to come to the US. This was during the Russian occupation of Poland. In school they were not to speak or teach Polish, but when the soldiers left the school, they would bring out their Polish books! Simon was a musician and could speak five languages. He joined the Confederate Army and was injured at one of the battles in Atlanta. He then came to Texas, where he settled. He married Mary Levi of Louisiana at Congregation Bnai Israel in Galveston in 1869. We would love to know more about Simon and other family members, but have run into brick walls trying to locate any additional information.