In 1913, Joseph Schonthal provided rooms to the Jewish Educational Alliance, an organization formed to assist immigrants in “Americanization”. Within a short period, this organization had expanded to serve both adults and children by way of education, recreation, and the provision of communal meeting space.

By 1918 the Educational Alliance’s position as a social center was insured with 35 activities including children’s education, Sunday School, a basketball team, library, various organizations, loan societies, and adult educational and cultural programs.  Joseph Schonthal stepped forward again and purchased a mansion at 555 E. Rich Street. Named in memory of his wife, the Hermine Schonthal Home opened in late 1918. This elegant home was adapted to the needs of the new occupants while maintaining its beautiful interior.

Rose Sugarman was brought to Columbus and was appointed assistant director of the Home in 1920. In 1921 she was named Director and held that position until her retirement in 1950. A “powerful presence” in the Columbus Jewish community, she was also the director of the Jewish Welfare Federation and the secretary of Camp Schonthal during that time.

For 32 years the Schonthal Center, as it came to be known, was a major center of activity in the Jewish community of Columbus.

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