Letter from the Chairman, David Kahn
History lives when we discover it, preserve it, and share it with others. This year, the Straus Historical Society has continued to bring the remarkable story of the Straus family to new audiences through research, education, publications, presentations, and the preservation of our archives.

Bringing Straus History to Life
Your support enabled us to travel from New York to Brevard, North Carolina, where we presented “The Legacy of Harry H. Straus” to members of the community whose families were directly touched by his vision and generosity. The Brevard presentation was a powerful reminder that the Straus legacy is not simply preserved in photographs, documents, and artifacts. It continues to live in the memories of the people and communities whose lives were changed by the family's commitment to service.

We participated in programs exploring the lives and accomplishments of members of the Straus family, including a presentation and discussion with author Andrew Fisher about his new biography, Nathan Straus: From Macy’s Magnate to International Humanitarian. The book brings renewed attention to Nathan Straus’ extraordinary humanitarian work and his lasting influence on public health and philanthropy.

And our archival work continues. Our dedicated interns and staff are digitizing materials from the Society’s collections so that letters, photographs, documents, and other treasures can be preserved and made available to researchers, educators, students, and family historians around the world.
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Donate by Check:
Please mail your check to
Straus Historical Society, Inc.
Post Office Box 416 
Smithtown, NY 11787-0416

Donate Online:
Online donations are accepted through the following platforms:
​Annual Report
A copy of the Straus Historical Society's annual report may be obtained, upon request,
​from the Society or from:

Office of the Attorney General
Charities Bureau
120 Broadway
New York, NY 10271
Expanding Our Impact Through Education
Since 2017, our Scholarship Program has grown to five annual awards in 2026, totaling more than $165,000 in support. To date, we have awarded 33 scholarships and recognized 26 Honorary Scholars at American, Tufts, Columbia, and USC-Price.

In 2026, two winners received expanded $6,000 awards for the Paul A. Kurzman and Al Berr Memorial Scholarships. All these scholars carry forward a 150-year commitment to public service. Look for their featured essays in the August 2026 issue of the SHS newsletter!

Reaching New Audiences Worldwide
Our digital presence is exploding with engaging social media content bringing Straus family history to thousands of followers. Assistant Director Catherine ("Cat") is working hard to keep our channels vibrant, posting interesting historic articles and rare photos at least twice weekly across Instagram, Facebook, Threads, LinkedIn and X.

From YouTube presentations to our carefully preserved archives, we are making history accessible and relevant to younger generations. We continue to attract researchers, authors and filmmakers who are documenting the American immigrant experience and the evolution of American philanthropy.

Looking Ahead: An Exciting Family Heritage Tour (Fall 2027)
Planning is underway for a heritage trip to Talbotton and Columbus, GA, scheduled for the Fall of 2027! We will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Straus-LeVert Memorial Hall and the 200th anniversary of the formation of Talbot County. Full details will follow soon.

The Challenge Ahead
Here is the realty: Momentum brings costs. Professional preservation, scholarship funding, and digitization all require resources. Your investment ensures the Straus legacy continues to guide future leaders.

Your Investment in America's Story
Will you help us write the next chapter?

  • $5,000 / $6,000 funds one complete scholarship, launching a future public servant.
  • $2,500 helps preserve and digitize a family collection for future generations.
  • $1,000 supports our social media outreach for one full year, reaching thousands.
  • $500 funds a global presentation, bringing Straus history to new audiences.
  • $250 helps maintain our archives and support ongoing research.
  • Any amount makes a meaningful difference in preserving this vital piece of American history.

The Straus story is America's story. A story of courage in the face of adversity, service over self-interest, and the belief that each generation must work to perfect our democracy. Your support preserves this vital history and continues to inspire and guide future leaders. Please join us in ensuring the path forward remains illuminated.

The future is bright, and we are more grateful than ever for your participation, donations, and support.