Nearby Kensington Market was a hub of cultural and commercial life for Jews who lived in the surrounding neighborhoods. It was said to have a shtetl-like atmosphere during the time period Anita settled in Toronto. Shtetls were small towns/villages with predominantly Jewish populations in Eastern Europe that existed prior to the Holocaust. They bustled with activity including market days, the practice of cultural and religious traditions and more. Examine the photograph and think about ways the image exemplifies this atmosphere.
-
How does this image exemplify a shtetl-like atmosphere?
-
Why do you think this atmosphere might have been appealing to immigrants from Eastern Europe at this time?