The Dr. Fred Weinberg and Joy Cherry Weinberg Judaica Collection

Visitors in the ROM's Dr. Fred Weinberg & Joy Cherry Weinberg Judaica Gallery

Collecting is a passion that connects people to the world around them. Though the term often conjures notions of blue-chip art purchases at auction houses, for collectors Joy Cherry and the late Dr. Fred Weinberg, it represents a meaningful journey of acquiring objects that celebrate more commonplace aspects of Jewish cultural and spiritual life.

Amassed over several decades, the Dr. Fred Weinberg and Joy Cherry Weinberg Judaica Collection at the ROM presents one of the most comprehensive explorations of material culture relating to the life and histories of the Jewish people. Encompassing objects dating from the 1700s to the present day, this world-class collection has now been catalogued in the publication Judaica: The Dr. Fred Weinberg and Joy Cherry Weinberg Collection at the Royal Ontario Museum.

“As collectors, Fred and Joy were interested in documenting themes and assembling objects following the Jewish life cycle. They collected what they enjoyed and what interested them personally. This approach inspired both the gallery that bears their name and this catalogue,” remarks K. Corey Keeble, ROM Curator Emeritus and author of the publication.

Beyond the publication, the recently renovated Dr. Fred Weinberg & Joy Cherry Weinberg Judaica Gallery on the Museum’s third level is where a passion for collecting meets a family’s deep commitment to community. The Weinberg Cherry Family has funded educational programs to offer students the opportunity to share beliefs, traditions, and knowledge. Hands-on learning labs have also been created, allowing students visiting the ROM to engage with authentic artifacts and learn about the history of Judaism and monotheism.

Judaica: The Dr. Fred Weinberg and Joy Cherry Weinberg Collection at the Royal Ontario Museum is available in the ROM Boutique or online.