Acropolis of America: The First Greek Immigrants 1874-1929 Introduction

Introduction

This exhibit is the second in a series being planned by the Lowell Hellenic Heritage Association (LHHA). In 1997, "Acropolis of America" explored the community's experience in the 1930s. Through these exhibits, the LHHA will document more than one hundred years of Hellenic-American heritage in the community. At whatever point in time one chooses to begin to tell the story, whether starting in 1930 or 1890, it is important to remember one fact...it all begins in Greece.

Greece

The immigrants-to-be lived in villages in dry or fertile valleys, on islands, and in the hills. They grew figs and olives, tilled fields, and raised sheep and goats - all for meager reward. Despite the persistent poverty, village life had its pleasures. They celebrated bountiful harvests and talked politics at outdoor "kafenia" (coffeehouses) in the crystal air. A gnawing sorrow was the thought that their children's lives would be no better unless they had the courage to take a chance on the promise of far off America.

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Introduction

Greece