Rochelle joined us from St. James. Rochelle’s father was born in Vilna (at the time part of Lithuania, later part of Russia). He came to America in 1917. Rochelle shared a picture of her father at four years old, along with his 8-year-old brother Robert. (Notice the Rasputin look on brother Robert, a common look during that era.) Rochelle’s father made notes (in Cyrillic) on the back of the photograph. Rochelle recalls stories her father told of her wealthy grandfather. She learned how Cossacks would come in to any home they wanted, and take whatever they wanted: silver service, artwork, money. The citizens would give up their possessions in the hopes they wouldn’t be killed. Rochelle’s grandfather spoke numerous languages. He was able to secure passage for his family, with a sponsorship by his brother (already in America). They left Russia as the war was nearing an end. En route, the German’s threatened to bomb the boat, so it was rerouted to Rotterdam. The family finally made their way to America.
Rochelle showed us the family photograph that was taken the very day her dad and family left for passage to America. Her dad told stories about people lining up at Ellis Island. Those passengers who were ill had a marking made on their sleeve indicating they were to be sent back to their homeland. Both ill and healthy people were switching coats with each other in order to either stay in America or be sent home. When it came time to be cleared, names often were changed. Rochelle’s dad was born “Sasha Rudinski.” When “cleared,” his papers were marked (and he was renamed) “Charles Rudin.” Rochelle’s dad passed away at age 91 in 1996. The items Rochelle shared with us were in pristine condition, having survived nearly a century. Holding them we were able to feel the emotions of her family in those very early years. Rochelle also showed us the American flag that her dad and his family were presented with when they arrived at Ellis Island in 1917 (notice the 48 stars). Rochelle’s dad’s name is proudly inscribed on the wall at Ellis Island
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