Memorial Book of Jezierna (Ozerna, Ukraine)

In 1920, Jezierna (modern Ozerna, Ukraine), located between Ternopil' and Lviv, became part of the new Republic of Poland. Most Jews in the town made their living as merchants, artisans, and tradesmen: bakers, carpenters, locksmiths, and orchard keepers. Some sold flax, honey, or wheat. Many of the grain mills and oil presses were Jewish-owned. The community supported a large synagogue, study house, cheder, and a four-grade secular Jewish public school. Three Zionist organizations emerged by the mid-1920s. A Jewish National house-Hatikvah House-was bought and renovated, eventually housing a library of Yiddish and world literature, pioneer training, and a drama club. Jezierna was occupied by the Nazis in July 1941, and entered a reign of terror and murder. Jews were often simply grabbed off the street and shot. A forced labor camp

was set up, with Jews brought in from many neighboring towns. When the last Jews were expelled to Zborow in July 1942, only about 1,000 were left; Jewish Jezierna had ceased to exist. This book is our memorial to our village and its martyrs.