I took a long walk today, and came across the ruins of the. It commemorates Kristal Nacht, and is testimony to the once large Jewish community of Sosua:
Herman Strauss was a prominent Jew who lived in Sosua and helped the local community. A school is named after him. According to an online article, the memorial/park was restored in 2009:
On Monday afternoon, 9 November 2009, a group of local residents and dignitaries gathered along the road to La Mulata to witness the official opening of the Herman Strauss park with the inauguration of a plaque and the planting of some trees. At the opening, the Jewish families still living in Sosúa were present. The Herman Strauss park has been established in honor of Mr Strauss, who has done so much for the town. Mr. Strauss died on February 20, 2017. His charitable foundation has always done a lot of good work for the local community and his former dairy/meat plant ‘Productos Sosúa’ provided jobs for many local people.
Judging from its current dilapidated state, I’d say it’s overdue for another restoration.
I use Sosua milk products all the time. Herman Strauss founded the company. Here’s his photo:
Yisgadal, v’yisgadash . . .
Pretty much what I said at the monument. I’ve already spoken to a couple of local Jewish friends about doing something to renovate the monument.