Children from the Garnethill Hebrew class dressed up for Purim c 1930s.
Purim is a Jewish festival which celebrates the biblical story of Queen Esther and how she saved the lives of all the Jews in Persia by defeating the evil plots of Haman, the chief minister of her husband King Ahasuerus. The festival is celebrated by holding fancy-dress parties and mocking those who at other times are much respected. The Book of Esther is read aloud in the synagogue and whenever Haman's name is mentioned everybody stamps, shouts or makes noises.
Reference: PHO.G.0006
Reproduced with the permission of the Scottish Jewish Archives Centre
Keywords:
Cheder, children, fancy-dress parties, festivals, Garnethill Synagogue, Hebrew classes, Jews, Purim