Through the exhibit, visitors can understand the varied religious expressions of Judaism, the elements of a Jewish identity, and the impact of tzedakah – righteous giving - on Jewish life and Elgin’s welfare. The diversity of Jewish-American lives appears through the stories of immigrant junk dealer Sam Strickman, entrepreneur Isaac Cohien, politician Joe Kreeger, charity worker Sarah Eppenstein, nutritional researcher Max Horwitt, and civic activist Adolph Bernstein.

Elgin’s Jewish residents constituted only about one percent of the town’s population. Nevertheless, Elgin offered not only the opportunity to maintain a Jewish identity but a preparation for the American mainstream and contributions to the national life. Visitors learn about the Elgin girl who became the Navy’s first Jewish woman captain, the Elgin boy who would give Chicago its planetarium, the Elgin girl portrayed in a movie by Doris Day, and the Elgin High School band’s drummer who grew up to record with Tony Bennett, Miles Davis and Benny Goodman.

Told through Jewish lives, the exhibit is a story for every American. Drawing upon themes of family, religion, education, and entrepreneurial energy, it illustrates the foundations of the American Dream.