BLOOM Family Portrait with everyone except Lawrence and Masha

BLOOM Family Portrait with everyone except Lawrence and Masha

Its not known exactly when Vera followed Lawrence to the United States. Mort estimated it was 1905, which could be correct. What is confirmed is that Vera came after her husband, Moishe died of a heart attack in Kiev. She came with her children, Rita, Sonia, Anna, Masha, Luba, and Sasha. She settled in Chicago.

This picture was almost certainly taken in Chicago and includes all of her children (except Lawrence, who was in Los Angeles, and Anna, who died of influence in epidemic of 1918).

Starting back row left is Rita standing in front of her husband Morris Grodsky (cross armed). Their daughter, Masha, is an infant being held by Vera. Since Masha was born March 8, 1920, and appears to be a few months old in this picture, we can surmise that this photo was taken circa June, 1920.

Next is Emmanuel Rytslin standing next to his wife Sonia. Kneeling in front of them in a white shirt and arms crossed is Robert (Bobby) Rytslin. This picture was taken in 1920, and the great Soviet experiment, initiated with the Russian Revolution of 1918, was settling in at this time, and soon thereafter, the Rytslins moved back to Russia to participate and support the Soviet experience. Emmanuel died incarcerated soon thereafter. Sonia apparently lived somewhat longer but died at an early age. Bobby spent the rest of his life in Russia, marrying a Russian woman and having one daughter, until he moved back to the United States decades later with the help of the Odinaks.

Next is Sasha, right behind Bobby.

Next is Anna Talmey and her husband, Sam.

Seated in front of Sam is Luba.

Obviously smiling was NOT in the tradition of group portraits in this era.

Circa June, 1920.

1920

1920