Leonard N. Simons (Audio Only)
Interviewed by Leonard N. Simons
March 15, 1975
Home of Leonard N. Simons
Leonard N. Simons (Audio Only)
Video 01:16:13
Leonard N. Simons (Audio Only)
Audio 01:16:13
Abstract
In this interview Leonard N. Simons talks about growing up in Detroit and his first job out of High School at an advertising agency. He discusses starting his own agency in 1929, his family and his book buying and restoration hobby. He discusses his charitable donation of his books and his charity work for Federation.
His advertising background allowed him to help the Federation with promotional material. He served on various committees and in different leadership capacities within Federation. He was also very involved in efforts to preserve history serving on various Jewish and non-Jewish historical commissions. He also discusses his involvement in the Jewish home for the Aged and other related projects for the elderly. He also discusses work he did in relation to the development of Sinai Hospital. He also shares his perspective on the need to help with Jewish charitable efforts across all areas of life.
History of Narrator
Leonard N. Simons was born in Youngstown Ohio on July 24, 1904. He grew up in Chicago and moved to Detroit when he was 12 years old. He started work out of high school at an ad agency and stayed in that line of work his whole life, starting his own company in 1929.
His involvement with the Jewish Welfare Federation dates back to the 1930s, including involvement with the Jewish Home for the Aged. He first travelled to Israel in 1956 right before the Suez Crisis. He continued his dedication to Jewish charities, local history, and education throughout his life.
Leonard N. Simons passed away in 1995 at the age of 91.
Transcript
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Credit as: Leonard N. Simons Jewish Community Archives, Bloomfield Hills, MI. Leonard N. Simons Oral History Interview, Mar 15, 1975.