History of JDA - Page 2/2

"In April 1948 we held our first meeting at the Palestinian Club in the West End of London. During discussions with the deaf people, I learnt that their main ambition was to have a centre and home of their own where they could meet and discuss their problems.

"In the autumn of 1949 a Committee was formed under the Chairmanship of Miss Clarica Davidson, and was known as the Jewish Deaf Association Concert Committee.

"Subsequently an All Star Concert was organised at the Palace Theatre in the middle of 1950 and the sum of £3,200 was raised. The audience (were asked) if anybody knew of premises that might be suitable for a club and if so would they contact me. Within a few days I was approached and told that 90/92 Cazenove Road (in Stamford Hill), although having suffered war damage, could be obtained if quick action was taken.

"I immediately contacted the Chairman of the Joint Synagogue Children's Hostel and arranged that, providing we repaired the building and made it habitable, they would give us a peppercorn lease at 1/- (one old shilling) per annum. We then proceeded to have the necessary construction and decoration carried out at a cost of £1,400. (Thanks to fundraising by the committee) we are now fortunate enough to be the owners of this magnificent freehold premises, and free from all encumbrances."

The Jewish Deaf Association was established as a Registered Charity in 1948 and the official opening of the Jewish Deaf Association Club and hostel took place on 27 May 1951. The JDA remained at these premises until 1998, when it moved into its present, purpose- built Community Centre in North Finchley.

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