The Girl Rabbi of the Golden West: Ray Frank Revisted
Summary
Hosts Ya'al Steiner and Jonathan Schwab revisit the story of Ray Frank, the "Girl Rabbi of the Golden West." They explore her rise as a celebrated orator in the American West, her refusal of formal rabbinic ordination despite studying at Hebrew Union College, and her pivotal role in bridging Orthodox and Reform communities. The episode concludes with her marriage to economist Simon Litman and their co-founding of the first Hillel chapter at the University of Illinois.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Revisiting Ray Frank and American Jewish History
The 1890 Spokane Falls High Holy Days Service
Ray Frank's Speeches and Refusal of the Title 'Rabbi'
Early Life, Education, and the Frontier Jewish Experience
Rise to Fame: Oratory, Press, and Celebrity Status
Touring Career and Critique of the Rabbinate
Enrollment at Hebrew Union College and Lack of Ordination
Intellectual Circle, Travel, and Meeting Simon Litman
Marriage, Domestic Life, and Founding the First Hillel
Legacy, Husband's Memoir, and Historical Impact
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