The Memorial

Photo credit: David Greenfield

A beacon of memory and hope

The New England Holocaust Memorial was built to pay tribute to the six million killed and to honor our survivors. Located on Boston’s historic Freedom Trail, near Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, and many other treasures of American history, the site offers a unique opportunity for reflection on the importance of human rights.

The Memorial project was initiated by a group of Holocaust survivors living in the Boston area. By the time the site was dedicated in October 1995, more than 3,000 individuals and organizations nationwide had joined in sponsoring the project.

We invite all to visit the Memorial and to join us in reflecting on the impact of bigotry and resolving to combat all forms of oppression.

To those we give thanks

Today, a collaboration of individuals, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations operates the Memorial. The Boston National Historical Park of the National Park Service maintains the site. Combined Jewish Philanthropies manages the site. The Jewish Community Relations Council coordinates programming. Facing History and Ourselves consults with schools and other groups on Holocaust education. Holocaust survivors and volunteers serve as educators.

Stephan B. Ross, of blessed memory, Founder

William Carmen, of blessed memory, Founding Chairperson

Ruth B. Fein, Founding President

Rick Mann, Chairperson, New England Holocaust Memorial Advisory Committee

Steve Rosenthal, Photographer

“We cannot give evil another chance. Look at these towers, passerby, and try to imagine what they really mean – what they symbolize – what they evoke. They evoke an era of incommensurate darkness, an era in history when civilization lost its humanity and humanity its soul… We must look at these towers of memory and say to ourselves, No one should ever deprive a human being of his or her right to dignity. No one should ever deprive anyone of his or her right to be a sovereign human being. No one should ever speak again about racial superiority.”
- Elie Wiesel, of blessed memory, at the Memorial’s dedication ceremony
Writer, educator, political activist, Nobel Laureate, and Holocaust survivor

Find out more.

The Memorial’s History

Founded by survivor Stephan Ross, to honor the six million victims of the Holocaust.

The Memorial’s Design

The six glass towers rise more than 50 feet in the air above Boston.

About the Architect

Stanley Saitowitz won a global design competition featuring 500+ entries.

Your support is appreciated

Learn how you can support the memorial’s efforts to educate the community.