JLGB HISTORY & HERITAGE

JLGB - HOW IT ALL BEGAN

As a member of JLGB you'll be joining the Jewish youth movement with the longest history of all in Britain. Here's how it began ...

Our movement was founded in 1895 by Colonel Albert Goldsmid, a senior army officer, to provide an interest for children of the many poor immigrant families who were coming into Britain at that time. The first company was launched in London's East End but others soon appeared throughout the city and the provinces. The movement later spread as far as South Africa and Canada.

In the early days Brigade catered for boys only, providing them with more than just spare-time activities. It offered food, clothes and the chance to learn skills that might help in finding a job. JLGB still gives young people the type of valuable training which helps them to succeed in today's world.

Then, as now, camps were an important part of Brigade life. Just 19 boys attended our first summer camp - but that was back in 1896! Nowadays, of course, several hundred youngsters camp with JLGB throughout the year.

Since the Second World War the formation of the first girls' company and the first junior units for the under-elevens has resulted in a larger and more exciting Brigade. There are now adventurous and challenging activities, smart new uniforms and hundreds of boys and girls sharing in the JLGB experience.

Click here to see photos from the first 110 years of JLGB.

JEWISH LADS' & GIRLS' BRIGADE

A movement that knows where it's come from and where it's going!

For further information contact JLGB on 020 8989 8990, or e-mail getinvolved@jlgb.org