Assyrians of Eastern Massachusetts (MA) (Images of America)

The widespread persecution of the Christian Assyrians by

neighboring populations in the Ottoman Empire led to their

immigration to the United States. Beginning at the end of the

19th century, with an influx during the Great War, Assyrians

settled mostly in eastern Massachusetts, finding an abundance of work along its ports and among its large factory base. Concerned with the welfare of their community, these immigrants established a multitude of cultural, social, and political institutions to help promote awareness of Assyria. The establishment of St. Mary’s Assyrian Apostolic Church, the first of its kind outside of the Middle East, prompted the solidarity of Assyrians in Massachusetts

and became a model for later settlements of Assyrians in the

United States. Through family portraits and documents from both

religious and secular institutions, Assyrians of Eastern Massachusetts

addresses the adjustment of this community in the United States.