The widespread persecution of the Christian Assyrians by
neighboring populations in the Ottoman Empire led to their
immigration to the United States. Beginning at the end of the
19th century, with an influx during the Great War, Assyrians
settled mostly in eastern Massachusetts, finding an abundance of work along its ports and among its large factory base. Concerned with the welfare of their community, these immigrants established a multitude of cultural, social, and political institutions to help promote awareness of Assyria. The establishment of St. Mary's Assyrian Apostolic Church, the first of its kind outside of the Middle East, prompted the solidarity of Assyrians in Massachusetts
and became a model for later settlements of Assyrians in the
United States. Through family portraits and documents from both
religious and secular institutions, Assyrians of Eastern Massachusetts
addresses the adjustment of this community in the United States.