Oral history interview with Alex Lash and Lila Winter Lash, 1996.

ArchivalResource

Rosenblum, Sandra Lee Kahn,. Oral history interview with Alex Lash and Lila Winter Lash, 1996.

Oral history interview with Alex Lash and Lila Winter Lash, 1996.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/48846863

Interview commences with a discussion of the Lash's respective parents, and their immigration to America (ca. early 20th century) from Lithuania and Poland. The Lashes describe how they (Lila and Alex) met in New York, married, and moved to Charleston, SC (1949) to take over Zalkin's Kosher Meat and Poultry Market. Alex Lash comes from a long line of Kosher butchers and describes his training in both Kosher and non-Kosher practices. Majority of interview relates to the Lash's experiences operating a kosher market in Charleston (1950s-1994.) Topics include hard times at the market, difficulties obtaining meat (they often had to pick it up from Augusta, GA), and a detailed discussion of the "koshering process." They also relate anecdotes about their customers including a community of Syrian Jews in Myrtle Beach. Local competition from Baker's Kosher Market is also mentioned. Notable is a description of how each kosher market was sanctioned by a synagogue. The Lash's establishment was endorsed by Brith Sholom, while Baker's was approved by Beth Israel. Alex Lash describes tensions that arose from the competition, rumors that almost ruined his business and a meeting (called by Lash) of both congregations held to dispel rumors that Lash's was not kosher. Misc. topics include the Lash's preparation for Hurricane Hugo and Alex Lash's extensive involvement with the sport of bowling, including his presidency with the Southeastern Bowling Association.

Sound recording : 1 sound cassette.Transcript : 27 p. ; 28 cm.

College of Charleston, Marlene and Nathan Addlestone Library