Resistance and Rescue:
Denmark's Response to the Holocaust

In compelling black and white images commissioned by the Thanks to Scandinavia Foundation, photographer Judy Ellis Glickman evokes the people and the scenes involved in this dangerous rescue operation. In 1943, the Danish people conspired against their Nazi occupiers in support of their fellow citizens and other Jewish refugees within their borders. Large numbers of the persecuted population were ferried across the North Sea to safe havens in Sweden. Presented in cooperation with Hillel of the University of Pennsylvania, and the Interfaith Council on the Holocaust.

Jens Moller, Gilleleje, 1992, black and white silver print

"We went to Paarup Station [the last stop before Gilleleje] to fetch a whole trainload of people and distribute them on the big farms. But there were so many that there was not room enough and the rest were so unhappy. We took an elderly couple and a young couple with twin babies to our house, and some to the carpenter's. And the neighbors [Frede Svendsen's mother] brought bread and butter. For three days they stayed. And I stood by and ran back and forth from the harbor to see when there would be room for them to get across." Jens Moller

Church, Gilleleje, 1992, black and white negative silver print

In October 1943, the Gilleleje church was used as a hiding place for Jews awaiting transportation to Sweden. The church dates back to 1538 when the community of about 70 fishermen defiantly chose to build their own church and hire their own minister, rather than attend the inland county church. Originally a half-timbered structure, using wood from ship-wrecked fishing boats, a foundation of large stones was added in 1763.

Harbor, Gilleleje, 1992, black and white silver print

In 1943 the people of Gilleleje, known for their strong sense of solidarity, forged by a dramatic history of doing battle with the elements, were instrumental in hiding and transporting an estimated 1,300 Jews to Sweden--20% of the total. Situated in the northernmost part of Zealand, the village has been known for its rich trade in herring and cod since its settlement in the 16th century.

Interior, Synagogue, Copenhagen, 1992, black and white silver print

Built in 1833 by the famous Danish architect Gustav Friedrich Hetsch, the synagogue is located on Krystalgade near Trinity Church. It is considered one of the most beautiful synagogues left in Europe today. While the exterior is simple and severe, reflecting elements of both Egyptian and Doric monuments, the interior of the sanctuary is flooded with light and decorated in white and gold, focusing on an elaborate ark and imposing gilt menorahs.

Pastor Palle Dinesen, 1992, black and white silver print

Current Pastor of the Church of the Holy Trinity, Copenhagen.