Annie Black, Peterborough pioneer (d. 1980)

Adapted from the Canadian Jewish News, February 14, 1980

Annie Black, pioneer of the city of Peterborough, died in January 1980, the CJN reported.

Daughter of the late Miriam and David Florence who arrived in Peterborough in 1902, Annie Black married a rabbi, Philip Black, Peterborough’s first. Soon after the marriage they opened a store. Mrs. Black was active in the business until her husband died, then her sons took over the store.

Founding member of the local Hadassah chapter, Mrs. Black was also active in school and recreational organizations and frequently invited Jewish speakers and out-of-town rabbis to stay and speak in her home. Since no kosher caterers existed in Peterborough, she catered all three of her sons’ bar mitzvahs, and also used the occasions to raise funds for the needy.

She had four children: Ruth Moldaver, Isadore, Aaron and the late Morris Black. She left 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. One of Mrs. Black’s grandsons, Rabbi Pesach Moldaver of Toronto, delivered the eulogy at her funeral. ♦