From The Peopling of New York City

Matty Katz

Matty Katz was born in Rhodes in 1937. Her family decided to immigrate to Morocco soon after she was born since the war had started and conditions in Rhodes had become dangerous for the Jews. At a young age, she moved with her parents to Israel and lived there until she was 17 years old. She remembers that she lived in a small community with family and friends until she was then introduced to the man that she would marry, Aaron Katz. Aaron had already immigrated to the United States and wanted to bring her with him. Her parents allowed her to marry and make the trip.

Matty arrived in the U.S. after a long boat ride and was surprised to note the differences between her new home and Israel. She was amazed to see the tall buildings and bridges that could not be found in Israel. Yet, she was alone in a foreign land with no family nearby. She had to learn a new language and adapt to a new culture. It took time for her to adjust, but Matty soon became the mother of three children and also helped to run a furniture business with her husband. She became friendly with some of the neighbors and soon began calling American her home.

Matty learned to read and write English with the help of her children and soon found herself satisfied. People from her family - her parents, two sisters, and their families - emigrated from Israel and moved nearby. She spent time with her relatives and invited everyone over to her house for holiday dinners. She is recognized for her hospitality and for her wonderful cooking. Matty purchased a home with her husband in Florida and she enjoys the freedom of being able to live in two locations, visiting with friends and family in both New York and Boca Raton. She feels comfortable living here the United States.