Jewish migration into what is now the London Borough of Brent is a story of movement, resilience and hope. From the late 19th century onwards, many Jewish families arrived in the UK fleeing persecution in Central and Eastern Europe. Others migrated earlier from Spain, Portugal and beyond.
Some initially settled in London’s East End, but as housing and transport improved, families began to move further out, seeking space, opportunity and a better quality of life. Areas like Kilburn, Cricklewood, Willesden, Wembley, Kingsbury and Kenton became new centres of Jewish life. Each family brought with them traditions, memories and a determination to rebuild their lives.
When Willesden was still surrounded by open fields, Willesden Jewish Cemetery opened its gates in 1873. It became the final resting place for generations of those who shaped Brent's story.
By the mid-20th century, a thriving Jewish community had taken root across the area, long before the creation of the Borough of Brent in 1965. Shops, synagogues, schools and social clubs formed the fabric of everyday life. For many, these streets still hold cherished memories. Today, Brent’s Jewish heritage lives on, in its people, its places and the stories passed from one generation to the next.
We are deeply grateful to the family of Abraham Shechter for donating their personal archive to our Social History Archive Project. Their generous contribution helps us preserve and share the rich heritage of Brent’s Jewish community.
If you have a story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Please email us at heritage@theus.org.uk.
With thanks to Brent Council for making this exhibition, guided walk and all the research possible.
Abraham Shechter (1893–1958)
Born in Warsaw, Abraham Szychta became Abraham Shechter upon arriving in Britain in the 1920s. A gifted Chazan, he studied at the Łomża Yeshiva and served as principal Chazan in Białystok before fleeing poverty and antisemitism in Eastern Europe.
In London, he became the first Chazan of the Cricklewood Synagogue, serving faithfully for 28 years (1929–1958). His wife Rebecca (née Oler) joined him in building a new life in Willesden, becoming part of the growing Jewish community in north-west London. Their story reflects the resilience and hope of many Jewish migrants who helped shape Brent’s vibrant Jewish heritage.
Click here for a visual history of Abraham and Rebecca Shechter
