Through Hell to the Midwest: A Holocaust Mapping Project

Bringing History, Technology, and Testimony Together

Lawrence, KS – November 14th – The Jewish Studies Program in partnership with the History and Philosophy Departments at Fort Hays State University, is pleased to announce, "Through Hell to the Midwest: A Holocaust Mapping Project”. This groundbreaking project uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map the oral testimonies of Holocaust survivors. The event will take place on November 14th at 5:30 PM in the Alderson Auditorium of the Kansas Memorial Union and will also be accessible virtually. Pre-registration for the virtual event is required. To register please go to: https://kansas.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_8cRzD0HtQCyeWyjvEZF9AA#/registration

"Through Hell to the Midwest" highlights the harrowing journeys of Holocaust survivors from Central and Eastern Europe, illustrating how they overcame unimaginable hardships to rebuild their lives in the American Midwest. This project is a testament to resilience and the power of storytelling, as it connects history with modern technology to enhance our understanding of the Holocaust and its impact on individual lives.

The event will feature insights from co-creator Dr. Amber Nickell, an Assistant Professor of History at Fort Hays State University, who specializes in Holocaust and Genocide Studies, Historical Geographies, and Central and Eastern European history. Additionally, co-creator, Hollie Marquess, a lecturer in the history program at Fort Hays State University with expertise in gender and sexuality studies, American Midwestern history, and social-cultural history, will share her perspectives on this vital project.

This event is organized by the KU Jewish Studies Program through a partnership with the History and Philosophy Departments at Fort Hays State University. Our co-sponsors at the University of Kansas include: Religious Studies, History, Global & International Studies, Geography, Slavic, German, & East Asian Studies, The Max Kade Center for German American Studies, Center for Russian and Eastern European Studies, Anthropology, Institute for Digital Research in the Humanities, American Studies, and the Jewish Faculty & Staff Council. Community co-sponsors include The Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, KU Hillel, KU Chabad, and the Lawrence Jewish Community Congregation.

Join us for an enlightening evening that bridges the past with the present, showcasing how technology can amplify the voices of those who lived through one of history's darkest chapters.