A Journey Through Time at Grossinger's Jewish Resort: Preserving America's Cultural Legacy
The Catskill Mountains have been synonymous with nostalgia for decades, thanks in part to the iconic Grossinger's Jewish Resort. This beloved haven, which operated from the 1910s to the 1970s, has left an indelible mark on American culture. From its humble beginnings as a boarding house refuge for Jewish vacationers barred from mainstream resorts to its rise as a beacon of entertainment and hospitality, Grossinger's is more than just a relic of the past – it's a testament to the power of community, diversity, and the American Dream.
In Paula Eiselt's captivating documentary, "We Met at Grossinger's," we delve into the fascinating history of this legendary resort, which has been shrouded in mystery for far too long. Through intimate interviews with members of the Grossinger family, former employees, historians, and entertainers, we uncover a rich tapestry of stories that reveal the significance of Grossinger's beyond its association with classic films like "Dirty Dancing" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel."
At its core, Grossinger's was more than just a resort – it was a cultural phenomenon. Founded by Asher and Malke Grossinger in the late 1910s, the eponymous establishment grew under the management of their daughter, Jennie, who became known as one of the great hostesses of the 20th century. Her pioneering spirit and commitment to creating an inclusive space where people from all walks of life could come together helped shape the resort into a groundbreaking institution.
Grossinger's played host to some of America's most prominent figures, including Jackie Robinson, who became the first Black man in the MLB; Eddie Fisher, a Hollywood actor; and former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. The resort's inclusive atmosphere, which encouraged cross-cultural interactions and celebration of diversity, helped pave the way for modern stand-up comedy.
However, Grossinger's story also explores the challenges faced by its owners as they navigated a world marked by anti-Semitism and intolerance. Despite these obstacles, Jennie Grossinger continued to push boundaries, creating opportunities for young performers like Mel Brooks, Billy Crystal, Jerry Seinfeld, and others to hone their craft on stage.
Today, the legacy of Grossinger's lives on in the many museums, festivals, and initiatives dedicated to preserving its history. As Robert "Bobby" Friedman, producer of "We Met at Grossinger's," notes, the documentary offers a deeper story about people seeking community, safety, and celebration – values that continue to resonate with audiences today.
"We wish we can go back to that time for just a little bit of joy, of community, of being proud and celebrating," Eiselt says. "I think it's not just the nostalgia, but it's a longing for a time where things felt better than they are today."
As "We Met at Grossinger's" embarks on its journey to share its inspiring story with audiences worldwide, we're reminded that the true power of this resort lies not in its nostalgic appeal, but in the enduring lessons it teaches us about inclusivity, diversity, and the importance of human connection.
The Catskill Mountains have been synonymous with nostalgia for decades, thanks in part to the iconic Grossinger's Jewish Resort. This beloved haven, which operated from the 1910s to the 1970s, has left an indelible mark on American culture. From its humble beginnings as a boarding house refuge for Jewish vacationers barred from mainstream resorts to its rise as a beacon of entertainment and hospitality, Grossinger's is more than just a relic of the past – it's a testament to the power of community, diversity, and the American Dream.
In Paula Eiselt's captivating documentary, "We Met at Grossinger's," we delve into the fascinating history of this legendary resort, which has been shrouded in mystery for far too long. Through intimate interviews with members of the Grossinger family, former employees, historians, and entertainers, we uncover a rich tapestry of stories that reveal the significance of Grossinger's beyond its association with classic films like "Dirty Dancing" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel."
At its core, Grossinger's was more than just a resort – it was a cultural phenomenon. Founded by Asher and Malke Grossinger in the late 1910s, the eponymous establishment grew under the management of their daughter, Jennie, who became known as one of the great hostesses of the 20th century. Her pioneering spirit and commitment to creating an inclusive space where people from all walks of life could come together helped shape the resort into a groundbreaking institution.
Grossinger's played host to some of America's most prominent figures, including Jackie Robinson, who became the first Black man in the MLB; Eddie Fisher, a Hollywood actor; and former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. The resort's inclusive atmosphere, which encouraged cross-cultural interactions and celebration of diversity, helped pave the way for modern stand-up comedy.
However, Grossinger's story also explores the challenges faced by its owners as they navigated a world marked by anti-Semitism and intolerance. Despite these obstacles, Jennie Grossinger continued to push boundaries, creating opportunities for young performers like Mel Brooks, Billy Crystal, Jerry Seinfeld, and others to hone their craft on stage.
Today, the legacy of Grossinger's lives on in the many museums, festivals, and initiatives dedicated to preserving its history. As Robert "Bobby" Friedman, producer of "We Met at Grossinger's," notes, the documentary offers a deeper story about people seeking community, safety, and celebration – values that continue to resonate with audiences today.
"We wish we can go back to that time for just a little bit of joy, of community, of being proud and celebrating," Eiselt says. "I think it's not just the nostalgia, but it's a longing for a time where things felt better than they are today."
As "We Met at Grossinger's" embarks on its journey to share its inspiring story with audiences worldwide, we're reminded that the true power of this resort lies not in its nostalgic appeal, but in the enduring lessons it teaches us about inclusivity, diversity, and the importance of human connection.
they were literally a cultural hub back in the day 
. The way Jennie Grossinger created this space for everyone to come together is just amazing 
. But, you know, it's also kinda wild to think about how much their resort was shrouded in mystery... like, how did they manage to keep all these secrets hidden? 
Jackie Robinson, Eddie Fisher, Eleanor Roosevelt... what a history! 
But at the same time, it's also kinda messed up that Grossinger's had to navigate anti-Semitism and intolerance... like, how did they even do that? 
. It's not just about nostalgia, but about understanding where we come from and what we can learn from the past 
. Anyway, I'm glad someone is preserving this history and sharing it with us now 
This doco is gonna be so hyped! I mean, Grossinger's has such a rich history, from being a haven for Jewish vacationers to hosting major stars like Jackie Robinson... it's wild 
. The fact that it played host to so many influential figures is just insane 
. I'm already imagining the merch opportunities for this doco... "We Met at Grossinger's" t-shirts and whatnot... get ready to cop! 
it's crazy to think about how much those events helped shape the course of history, like Jackie Robinson breaking the MLB color barrier 
and mel brooks getting his start in comedy 
i'm also low-key fascinated by the stories of how jennie grossinger kept pushing boundaries despite facing so much anti-Semitism & intolerance 
it's a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, there's always hope for change & progress 
[Grossinger's Jewish Resort: The OG Party] 
(watch till 1min) 
Eddie Fisher, Jackie Robinson, and others getting down at Grossinger's 
Mel Brooks and Billy Crystal getting their comedy start at Grossinger's 
'We Met at Grossinger's' doc is a wild ride 
. I mean, who wouldn't want to hang out with legends like Jackie Robinson, Eddie Fisher, and Eleanor Roosevelt 
. Can we get a reboot of this place or something? 
and Eleanor Roosevelt 
. But what I love most is how Jennie Grossinger created this space where people from all walks of life could come together, celebrate diversity, and just be themselves. It's so inspiring! 
. The history of Grossinger's is like a big ol' hug 
for America's cultural heritage 
, but also their triumphs 
. The stories about Jackie Robinson 
for myself 
. It's a reminder that community, diversity, and human connection are what make us strong 
that we can all learn from 
!