In 1946, the neighborhoods of Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan comprised the largest Jewish community in New England. For them, the green space that served as their landmark and boundary was Franklin Park, the greatest jewel in the Emerald Necklace designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.

Franklin Park is more than just a zoo and a golf course. Franklin Park and Franklin Field were beloved destinations for Boston’s Jewish families and World War II-era young people – and are still remembered fondly today in family memories and lore.

Now, the full story of Franklin Park and the Jewish community from 1920 to 1970 has been published by JCRC and is available for free download here: Emerald Necklace Memories and Dreams. If you’ve heard about the park but don’t know much about it – from triumph to tragedy – this is an invaluable resource. (A printed copy is also available from the Council by writing JCRC at 126 High St., Boston, MA 02110 or by calling 617-457-8662.)