Chatzar Kinneret and The Kinneret Cemetary

Today, the group headed down to the shores of the Kinneret one more time to learn about the early pioneers at one of the most historically significant places by the Kinneret- the Chatzer Kinneret (Kinneret courtyard) and cemetery. Founded in 1909, the Kinneret courtyard was part of the first agricultural training farm in the history of modern Israel, where young people would come through in small groups and learn to work the land, before leaving to somewhere else for permanent settlement. The MBIers heard stories of young people from Eastern Europe who came to Palestine and the hardships, dilemmas, failures and numerous successes that they endured in their time at the Chatzer.

Just across the road from the Chazter Kinneret is the old Kinneret cemetery. Here, the MBIers could hear the stories of some of the most famous personalities in the history of Israel and Zionism, ranging from the early Socialist Zionist thinkers and writers Moses Hess and Dov Ber Borachov, to the early Chalutzim (pioneers) Berl Katznelson and Rachel, the poetess to some of the integral figures of the modernstate, such as Israeli song-writer Naomi Shemer.

Tomorrow they will leave Kibbutz Deganya and the buses will split up for the first time this summer. As stated in my previous email, all of the buses will be staying within a short drive of one another. Bus 1 will stay of Kibbutz Deganya Bet, Bus 2 will head over to Kibbutz Sha'ar Hagolan, and bus 3 will be staying at the Poriyah Youth Hostel and Guest House.

Please let me know by phone tomorrow if you have any questions...917-822-2330.

Learning at the gravesites overlooking the beautiful Kinneret. 

Inside one of the buildings at Chatzar Kinneret, learning about the early kvutzot (collectives) in Palestine. Stories of these early Jews who settled the land were told by madrichim who acted them out.