The Albert Kahn Legacy Foundation is proud to share a remarkable new chapter in the life of Albert Kahn—one that has remained unknown for more than eight decades. A recent report published by the Detroit Jewish News reveals the first documented evidence that Kahn quietly helped a Jewish family escape Europe during the early years of World War II.
The story, uncovered through a wartime diary found in the belongings of historic preservationist Nancy Finegood’s late mother, details how Kahn personally sponsored the immigration of Arthur and Piroska Tennenbaum and their young daughter, Helen, enabling their safe passage from war‑torn Europe to Detroit. This newly surfaced account demonstrates that Kahn was not only aware of the growing peril facing European Jews, but took direct, compassionate action to save lives.
The Detroit Jewish News, a nonprofit organization, has made this history accessible through its century‑long digital archive, the William Davidson Digital Archive of Jewish Detroit History. We are grateful for its stewardship in bringing this powerful story to light.
From-War-Torn-Europe-to-Detroit_-How-Albert-Kahn-Saved-a-Jewish-Family-_-Culture-_-thejewishnews.com_