Archives West Finding Aid

Scope and Content: Tape recorded interview conducted by Howard Droker on 19 Jul 1983; transcript. Miller discusses the Seattle Jewish Community Center from 1978 to 1982, focusing on events leading to financial crisis and the solution to the crisis. He was JCC president 1978-1980. Other topics discussed include the problems surrounding the demise of Camp Benbow.

Scope and Content: Robert (Bob) Miller speaks about his grandparents coming from Lithuania and his upbringing in Brockton, Massachusetts, 25 miles south of Boston. In 1956, he was transferred by a New York textiles firm to Seattle, and in 1958, decided to stay and establish SeaTex (Seattle Textile Company). Mr. Miller describes Anti-Semitism in Seattle in the 1950's, especially with lack of admission to clubs; he and Herb Bridge were the first Jews to break the barrier 48 years ago at the Washington Athletic Club. In the mid 1960's, while still young, Mr. Miller was asked to join the Federation Board. Following that, after getting to know Sy (Seymour) Kaplan, he joined the Anti-Defamation League which he went on to chair in the mid-70's. He speaks about Lee Okin, a strong leader of the Jewish Community Center (JCC) who drew him and others into leadership positions. While President of JCC, he co-chaired its building fund along with Bill Schwartz. In the 1980's, when interest rates were high, he approached Samuel Stroum, SeaFirst Bank, who with others generously made sure the Mercer Island JCC building was completed. Mr. Miller joined the Temple Beth Am Board and once again, while still president, chaired its building fund and later was involved with the search for new Rabbi Jonathan Singer. Likewise, he was President of Hillel when they hired as new Rabbi Dan Bridge. Mr. Miller was active with the B'nai B'rith Foundation, the fund-raising arm of B'nai B'rith. He speaks about its annual fund-raiser and the changing times for fraternal organizations.