Fort Worth Jewish Archives

This exhibit explores the journeys of Soviet and South African Jews who resettled in Fort Worth during the late 20th century. Through oral histories, photographs, and family stories, it highlights the struggles of leaving behind oppression, the challenges of starting over, and the resilience it took to build new lives in Texas. From Soviet refuseniks fleeing antisemitism to South African families escaping apartheid, their stories reflect courage, community, and lasting contributions to Fort Worth’s Jewish life.

The title Gone2Texas recalls the 19th-century frontier phrase “Gone to Texas,” used by Americans seeking a fresh start. Similarly, both Russian and South African Jews came to Texas in search of freedom and opportunity. Each group was propelled by international movements that challenged injustice—whether demanding “Let My People Go” for Soviet Jews or resisting the harsh system of apartheid in South Africa.

This exhibit revisits the politics of the era, draws parallels between these two immigrant communities, and follows up with those who arrived in Tarrant County more than 40 years ago, asking: Where are they now?

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