The granddaughter of one of the pioneers of Cleveland, Edna Goldsmith devoted her career to creating and leading Jewish women’s organizations within her home state of Ohio. Goldsmith helped found the Ohio Federation of Temple Sisterhoods and served as its first president from 1918–1923 and honorary president until her death. From 1923–1929 she served on the executive board of the National Federation of Temple Sisterhoods. She also served on the board of the Cleveland Council of Jewish Women. In 1924 she published a children’s book, Great Stories of the Bible (Old Testament). Beyond her work in the Jewish community, Goldsmith also volunteered her energies to various social justice and education organizations. As a member of the National Consumers’ League, she lobbied for the creation of a minimum wage. She also served on the board of governors of the National Education League. Shortly before her death, Hebrew Union College established a scholarship in her honor.
How to cite this page
Jewish Women's Archive. "Edna Goldsmith." (Viewed on August 2, 2015) <http://jwa.org/people/goldsmith-edna>.