Philip Nathan Flash papers, 1948-2004

Scope and Content: Manuscript and biographical features. Accession also includes lists, financial records, reports, clippings and other materials related to Temple Circle.

Papers primarily relate to the Abraham/Nathan/Flash families and include an autobiography, copies of genealogical information, family photographs, and vital statistics documents.

Scope and Content: Contains one booklet "A Hug from Afar: One family's immigration story" which is a transcription and translation of a series of letters sent from Claire Barkey in Rhodes to her uncle Ralph and aunt Rachel Capeluto in Seattle. The letters document not only the Barkey's journey of immigration to Seattle but also the plight of the Jewish population in Rhodes during World War II. Also contains membership information and background documents on Temple Circle. In his oral history, Flash describes the growth of the youth group, Temple Circle, from a small Temple de Hirsch-sponsored group to a larger city-wide organization. Temple Circle was established prior to World War II with the purpose of bringing together youth from the different factions of the Jewish community in Seattle. He explains that Temple Circle was a social club for working young adults, and describes some of the sponsored activities. Flash also mentions the group's move from the Temple de Hirsch building, his service as a representative of Temple Circle at a national youth meeting, and an All-City Jewish Youth rally in Seattle during the early 1950s. He provides details on speakers, founding members, and officers. Flash also comments on the many marriages involving couples from differing Jewish backgrounds that resulted from the Temple Circle social environment. Temple Circle disbanded ca. 1956, as the new Jewish Community Center opened. Interview conducted on Jan. 7, 2002, by Doris Stiefel; recorded in Seattle, Washington.