Gunzburg, Ernest M., 1911-1990

Ernest Gunzburg, a German immigrant, rose to prominence for aiding European refugees resettling in the Richmond area during the era of World War II. He later assisted in the founding and management of multiple organizations in Richmond aimed at community engagement and religious cooperation.

Gunzburg was born in the Free City of Danzig on 29 December 1911. He was educated in Mainz, Germany, and immigrated to the United States in 1935. Soon after he arrived in the United States, Gunzburg worked with the National Refugee Service to settle European refugees in Virginia. In 1939 he relocated to Miami, Florida, to take the position of executive director of the Florida Resettlement Committee. After the United States became involved in World War II, Gunzburg enlisted and served as an interpreter with US Army Intelligence with the rank of sergeant. In 1944, Gunzburg received a commendation for acting as an interpreter for a German parachutist group that had surrendered at Normandy, France.

In 1945, Gunzburg returned to Richmond, Virginia, and became an insurance agent. While in this profession, he continued his efforts to relocate individuals displaced by the war, forming the Friends of Newly Naturalized Citizens. Gunzburg actively engaged in the local community in other ways as well. He helped organize the Richmond Symphony Orchestra, later serving on its board of directors. In 1961, he aided the formation of an interfaith ecumenical committee known as the Commemoration of Faith, which encouraged interreligious dialogue. The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities honored Gunzburg for these efforts in 1983.

Additionally, he was active in organizations such as the Language Bank, the American Red Cross, the Spring Street chapter of the Richmond Jaycees, and the Richmond Chamber of Commerce. His consistent involvement in the Richmond community garnered him numerous awards and honors. Local organizations frequently requested Gunzburg to speak at events. He used these opportunities to advocate for a Bill of Responsibilities for all citizens to guide their community involvement.

Gunzburg died 22 November 1990 in Henrico, Virginia.