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Artifcts \ Articles \ CONVERSATIONS \ Suitcases in the Attic Preserved One Family’s Holocaust History

CONVERSATIONS, GENEALOGY & FAMILY HISTORY

Suitcases in the Attic Preserved One Family’s Holocaust History

Ellen Goodwin, Artifcts

January 27, 2025

Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. Through the artifacts and stories carefully preserved and shared, we can connect with our shared history and bring forward its lessons to a new generation. We hope you find inspiration in this story, the spoken and unspoken history of a family that has now been brought into the light. We extend our deep gratitude to Deborah for sharing her story.

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Meet Deborah.

Deborah grew up Jewish, the kind of Jewish that enjoyed matzah but also celebrated Christmas with other kids in her Connecticut neighborhood. Being Jewish, she felt different, special, “even if I didn’t know what being Jewish meant.”

While Deborah knew vaguely of her family’s migration from Austria to the United States during World War II, she knew little of the details that completely relandscaped her family’s lives.

Fast forward many years to 2003 when Deborah asked her mother about family documentation that might exist to support reparation claims for those who had property stolen as the Nazis swept across Europe. “My Mom said, ‘Good luck with that,’ and pointed up, to the attic, ‘Everything’s up there. Suitcases full. Take it.'"

Sure enough, Deborah’s great grandfather, her mother’s paternal family, had squirreled away a plethora of ephemera to document his original Vienna-based hat business, along with letters and other materials of their life. Everything they had departed Vienna for the US with, was all that remained. The rest? The rest was in secure storage at a port in Italy, destined for a ship to the US, and stolen when the Germans overtook the port.

“It turns out, my mother’s maternal family, having left for the US a few years earlier arrived with practically all of their household items. We’re talking everything down to their 12-piece fine porcelain dinner service.” But of course, they lived in a small apartment in New York and had no need for most of the items. It all sat in storage for decades, wrapped securely in the same 1938 newspaper it shipped over to the US in.

Following are snippets from our co-founder Ellen’s conversation with Deborah in honor of today’s International Holocaust Remembrance Day. We’re sharing some of the spirit and content behind her discoveries into her own family history and the holocaust. Her Artifcted collection of family artifacts and her book Nothing Really Bad Will Happen provide you, the curious, with so much more historical color and context. We encourage you to explore and take in the themes of resilience, legacy, and survivorship.

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Ellen Goodwin: Where did all these family artifacts come from? You have a hat designed by your great grandfather, a vast collection of mementos and ephemera. Who was keeping them all this time? How has it been preserved?

Deborah Holman: Well, one part of my family lost everything, and the other saved it all.

My mothers’ father’s family essentially lost everything. They moved it into a storage container in Italy in 1941 to ship to the US once they got here. But when the Germans captured the port, everything they owned was stolen. They arrived with a suitcase and 5 bucks. The only reason I have one of the hats from my great grandfather’s hat factory in Vienna is I was able to find one on eBay!

My mother’s maternal family left earlier, in 1938, and they kept everything. They dragged all of it from Vienna and deposited it in the storage area of their apartment building. It sat there until it migrated into my mother’s attic, wrapped, unused, and never spoken of.

cabinet with china from Vienna offwhite plate in cabinet

Goodwin: But your great grandfather’s documents, they were an exception. They made the trip with him to the US, right?

Holman: Yes, exactly. When they confiscated his hat factory, he began immediately to try and get it back. He saved every document, every letter for reparation claims. It was a whole additional suitcase in my mother’s attic I never knew about.

Goodwin: You never knew. You mean your mother never discussed it?

Holman: Never. My mom was six when she fled here with her mother and grandmother. All she ever said were things like, “I could have been a princess,” and “Maybe I could have had a sibling,” or “We had money, and then we had nothing.” I knew her father had spent 10 months in two concentration camps, my grandmother had all the letters he sent every two weeks, but that’s it.

My daughter was the only one to ever open a small crack into my family’s holocaust history when she interviewed my mother for a school project in the late 90s. I don’t know how accurate the memories were, but my mother shared more than I had heard before. And then that was it, “There’s no point in talking about it anymore,” were my mother’s final words on it.

Goodwin: When going through large collections like these you expect to find certain things: passports, travel papers, letters, and the like. Did you find anything surprising?

Holman: As I was writing my book, I was feeling guilty about how I portrayed my great grandfather, the hat maker. He does not come across as a really good guy, so stern. And that’s where the title of the book, “Nothing Really Bad is Going to Happen,” came from. His view of what the Nazis were doing was akin to “this happens to Jews all the time.” He almost blew it, not getting out until ’41 because of his mindset.

And yet, one day out of the blue, my sister called to tell me she found his wallet in a box in her house. She has no idea how it came to be in her possession. And tucked in the back of the wallet was a newspaper article, written in German. I translated it and discovered it was essentially an advice column, advising against giving your children too much before you die because if you do, they won’t learn to be self-sufficient, and they’ll want you to die prematurely so they can get your stuff.

With that article, I realized, I portrayed him pretty accurately. Guilt gone!

Goodwin: And THAT is why I tell people the things we keep speak volumes about us, what we value, and even our aspirations.

So, you have all this now, and you know more about your family history. What will become of these physical artifacts?

Holman: We’ve agreed we want to donate items of broader interest to an institution where people will get to see it all up close, somewhere more intimate. There are some museums in NYC as well as the Center for Jewish History that we have in mind.

Goodwin: As we bring our conversation to a close, I’d like to circle back to where we began. You said as a child you didn’t know what being Jewish meant to you. What does being Jewish mean to you now after you’ve done all this family research?

Holman: Being Jewish means strength and resilience. It means “Good luck. Do what you want. We’re not going anywhere.”

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Let this be your call to action on this International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Let this family's artifacts of the past and the people and stories they represent remind us always to stand against hate and intolerance in all its forms. We are better than our past, always improving with the lessons of history as our guide.

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15 Years in Storage: Now What? It’s Time to Organize 'Stuff'

"I said I would go through it someday. I know I don’t need it all. But there it sat for over 15 years while I paid for the storage. I couldn't even remember what was in storage, much less enjoy it.” That’s what one Artifcts Community member of the boomer generation told us recently. We know she is not alone.

According to an AARP magazine review of commercial storage trends, the older you are, the longer you keep items in storage. And, on average, boomers only visit their storage units once per month. How critical is that storage? How much cost and uncertainty does it create? Maybe, we need to take a minute to talk about the proverbial elephant in the room, or in this case, the storage unit.

“Our family moved a lot over the span of 20 years, and I was in constant survival mode. There was no time to ponder what we kept and what we let go of much less the good stories to pass on,” said another Artifcts Community member. He then proudly (or rather sheepishly) shared that that is how they ended up one time moving a trash can still full of trash.

He was trying to justify to himself why he and his partner kept moving the same ‘stuff’ from house to house, even if only to put back in storage in the next garage, closet, and attic. (And that eventually became a downsizing adventure of epic proportions. Read about it here.)

We have also heard from people who held onto items and expressed some version of, “Surely it will still be worth something, and I can sell it,” only to find it degraded over time in the hot attic, the style or material was no longer in vogue when recovered from the basement, or some other reason meant that no, it was a lost cause. And still others have confessed to using storage for items and sometimes nearly whole estates they have inherited and did not have the time, interest, or heart to go through.

Surely it will still be worth something, and I can sell it...

Sound familiar? Or think you're immune? Given today's demographics and the impending great wealth transfer, we are all at some point going to have to encounter this very dilemma--too much 'stuff,' not enough space, and the desire to preserve and share the family memories and stories behind those keepsakes.

why do people put belongings into storage

How to Make the Most of the Money We Spend on Storage

Keep in mind, storage is not always at an offsite property where you pay a monthly fee. Want to talk about expensive storage, consider the climate controlled space you live in!

#1 KEEP TRACK OF WHAT YOU STORE

If nothing else, make a list and take pictures of the bulky and or valuable items in storage or heading into storage. Better yet, Artifct what you store. Otherwise, you know what they say...out of sight, out of mind.

When you create an Artifct for the items heading into storage, you can also affix an Artifcts QR code sticker to the box to help you easily recall which box the item went into in its storage location. Bonus! Staring at a wall of boxes? Having an Artifcts QR code sticker on the outside of the box is a quick and easy way to figure out what's in the box without having to open or unpack.

Tag Artifcted items with two tags: one that's simply #Storage and a second that's the specific location, such as #attic, #fronthallcloset, or #storageunit. That way with a single click on any #storage tag you can easily review what you're storing, and second click #attic, and "Oh, yes, that's what's up there. Maybe it's time to take it out of storage and use it."

If you're working with a professional moving and storage company, they usually offer services to help you create an inventory for practical and insurance purposes. We encourage you to consider this the "if nothing else" bare minimum, because we believe you deserve more than an inventory of stuff.

#2 THINK AHEAD TO CAPTURE USEFUL DETAILS

Photos of the objects are important, including from multiple angles, especially if you live in an area prone to natural disasters. But we also recommend a video snippet that gives a 360-degree view if an item is particularly special or valuable. The video may capture details and imperfections you otherwise overlook.

Grab approximate dimensions and weight, too. This will help whether you need to move it again or file an insurance claim.

You may also enjoy our ARTIcles with tips on Articting for Insurance as well as Artifcting for Estate Planning.

#3 ASK BEFORE YOU STORE, THEN STORE, AND STORE SAFELY

We know it might be hard to let go of that piece of furniture that's been in your family for decades or even generations. Likewise, those bins of old papers and photos that you know tell your family's story. It's all very tempting to store for someone someday to enjoy again.

- - If you Artifct it and share it, with one click you can ask someone if they want the item if you do not, using Artifcts as a decluttering app. If they do not want it, you can more easily now let it go to a new home.
  - If you choose to store it, and let's assume that space is climate controlled, please still think about what boxes and bins you are storing the item in. So many of the most popular bins you pick up at local shops will let off gasses ("off-gas" in archival terms) and ruin photos, film, and documents. And without proper care, textiles can also be a lost cause. You don't want to realize you lost the history and stored what's now trash. Use archival quality materials. Archival Methods offers great tips and supplies. (Visit Artifcts' Our Partners page for a discount on your next Archival Methods purchase!)

Ready to Make Some Decisions?

You’ve read about how long-forgotten belongings can quietly take up space and money, and you now have tools and strategies to track, document, and care for what you store. But real progress happens when you act.

Set aside an afternoon — or even just a couple of dedicated hours — to tackle what’s in storage. Pull things out, see what’s there, and be honest with yourself about what truly still matters. Use Artifcts to capture photos, videos, and stories of the items you decide to keep so their meaning isn’t lost, and let go of what no longer serves you by donating, gifting, selling, or recycling it.

Set aside an afternoon — or even just a couple of dedicated hours — to tackle what’s in storage...

It can feel overwhelming to face years (or even decades) of accumulation — but breaking it up into a manageable block of time turns a daunting task into a meaningful afternoon. Make a conscious decision about what happens next with those belongings, and you’ll not only reclaim physical space but also peace of mind. Your future self will thank you for finally confronting what’s in storage and making intentional choices about what stays and what goes.

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February 25, 2026

DECLUTTERING & ORGANIZING

Should You Sell Old Jewelry? A Guide to Cashing In Without Losing Its Meaning

Earlier this month, one of our members wrote in to ask us what to do with the old jewelry she’s accumulated that she no longer wears or may have seen better days. Her predicament...

“I’ve just started downsizing and going through our bedroom closets. I’ve come across a rather large collection of jewelry pieces that I either no longer wear, didn’t remember I had, or are broken and in need of some TLC. I plan to Artifct the ones that I will keep and one day pass down to my daughter and granddaughters, but I’m not too sure what to do with the rest. I’ve heard gold is at record prices, and I’m wondering if I should sell some of it rather than simply donate to our local thrift shop. Any advice?”

Our first response after reading her note was, “You’re not alone.” We routinely get this question a couple of times a year, although we’ve yet to write about it. So, in honor of and in tribute to those of you who’ve asked and those of you who’ve wondered, this ARTIcle is all about what to do with the jewelry you no longer use.

Many of us have jewelry tucked away in drawers — broken earrings, outdated rings, chains tangled in a giant knot, or pieces we just don’t wear anymore. With gold and silver hitting record-breaking prices in recent years, now might be a great time to think about selling those pieces for cash.

Turning Old Jewelry into Cash — Without Losing the Story

Precious metals markets have seen historic highs. Gold has surpassed multi-year records — recently trading above $5,300 per ounce according to multiple market reports — and silver has also surged, making old metal jewelry potentially more valuable than it has been in decades.

That means your old gold bands, silver bracelets, and even scrap metal jewelry could be worth far more today than when you first set them aside. You might be wondering what do I do with it now, or you might be willing to let go of the pieces but concerned about preserving the memory.

If you find yourself in this camp, Artifct the pieces you plan to sell. Photograph each piece and enter the details about where it came from, who owned it, and any events or moments connected to it. Consider adding a photo of you back in the day wearing the piece. Was the piece a gift from a loved one? Include a photo of them too, as part of your story. This way, the story lives on with Artifcts, even if the items themselves don’t stay in your hands.

Looking for Ways to Sell Old Jewelry?

Here are common places people sell their jewelry — each with pros and cons:

Local Jewelers or Dealers: Professional buyers may offer competitive prices for gold and quality gemstones based on current metal prices.
Pawn Shops: Quick and easy, but often lower payouts.
Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay, Etsy, or dedicated resale sites such as Worthy can expand your buyer pool and potentially get higher prices — especially for vintage or branded pieces.
Consignment: Let a jeweler or boutique sell for you — you may earn more, though it can take time. One of our business partners, National Rarities, may be able to help, especially with gold or silver pieces.

Pro tip: Before selling, get multiple quotes, check reviews, and always know that a lot of jewelry gets melted down — its resale value is usually tied to metal content, not necessarily emotional or design value.

Keeping and Passing Jewelry Down

For many families, jewelry is much more than metal and stones — it’s a legacy. Perhaps it was your grandmother’s engagement ring, your aunt’s vintage brooch, or a locket your parents gave you on graduation. These pieces carry stories that transcend material value.

Even if you don’t wear or display every piece, you can honor its meaning:

Document Stories: Use Artifcts to upload photos and narratives — who gave it to whom, the occasion, what it symbolizes, and even how it was worn.
Add Context: Include letters or cards, old photos of the piece being worn, or transcripts of conversations about it.
Connect Generations: Invite family members to collaborate on the same Artifct so everyone contributes their memories or interpretations.

Documenting, preserving, and sharing the stories behind the pieces through Artifcts keeps not only the jewelry itself, but the stories behind it in your family history, not just stored in a drawer.

You'd never know the story behind this necklace just by looking at it!

If you do plan for pieces to stay in the family:

Make It Meaningful: Writing down why you’re choosing a particular heirloom for a specific family member adds intentionality and sentimental depth. We wrote extensively about this in Gift Your Loved Ones a Why.
Use Artifcts as a Legacy Tool: Artifcts can serve as a digital keepsake your next generation can revisit long after the physical piece changes hands — or even if it gets lost. Bonus! You can’t split a diamond ring in thirds, but with Artifcts, one member can inherit the ring, and all can inherit the Artifct of the ring.
Fill Out the 'In the Future' Field: Don’t leave it to guesswork. If you know who you want to inherit the piece, use our In the Future Field to document your wishes, and then share with your attorney or estate planner.

Our 'In the Future' field makes it easy to pass down jewelry and other keepsakes.

Whatever You Decide — Keep the Story

Whether selling pieces for their intrinsic value or keeping jewels close for future generations, Artifcting their stories ensures memories aren’t lost. Jewelry often carries layered personal meaning and Artifcts helps you capture that meaning forever, no matter what happens to the physical objects.

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You might also enjoy reading these related ARTIcles:

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February 18, 2026

DECLUTTERING & ORGANIZING, LEGACY, PLANNING & MORE

Artifcts: The New Love Language

In a world where messages often zip by in seconds and memories can slip through the cracks of daily life, Artifcts offers something beautiful: a way to say “you matter” that’s tangible, personal, and lasting.

An Artifct isn’t just a photo, a story, or a digital file — it’s a love note stitched together with meaning. It’s a moment preserved in time, carefully captured and shared with intention. It becomes a topic of conversation, a happy memory shared, a new story discovered. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, reconnecting across time and distance, or simply saying “I love you,” Artifcts transforms everyday objects and memories into meaningful expressions of affection.

How Artifcts Becomes a Love Language

At its heart, Artifcts is about connection: between family, across generations, and even between friends. When we slow down to document why something matters — not just what it is — we invite others into our world, our stories, and our hearts.

Objects gain power when their stories are told. A simple recipe card becomes a warm memory of Sunday dinners. A well-worn baseball glove becomes proof of childhood dedication. These are the stories that make the Artifcts priceless.

When you share an Artifct, you’re doing more than sending a file — you’re offering understanding, appreciation, and connection.

A special Valentine's Day gift from mother to daughter. Sorry, this Artifct is private!

Artifcts: Love Across Time and Distance

One of the most magical aspects of Artifcts is that it lets you share love no matter where you are. Whether family members are across town or across the globe, an Artifct carries emotions and memories in a way that text messages and social feeds simply can’t.

You can preserve:

Family traditions and heirlooms
Stories and mementos from loved ones who’ve passed on
Milestones and awards big and small
Meaningful moments and photos you never want to forget

This shared remnant of life becomes a bridge between your world and someone else’s, a shared narrative that deepens relationships and invites ongoing conversation.

Tips for Creating Truly Heartfelt Artifcts

Ready to make Artifcts that resonate deeply with those you love? Here are thoughtful tips and tricks to ensure your Artifcts are full of heart value:

🧡 1. Start With Why

Every meaningful Artifct begins with a why — a reason that goes beyond the object itself. Ask yourself:

Why does this keepsake matter to me?
What memory does this memento spark?
Why have I kept this item all these years?

Share those answers as part of the Artifct’s description.

📸 2. Combine Media for Richer Stories

Blend photos, videos, and voice recordings to tell a fuller story. Hearing someone’s voice or seeing a moment in motion adds emotional depth that text alone can’t match. Whether it’s the history behind a treasured heirloom or the tale of a favorite trip, capturing details while they’re still fresh and in your loved ones own words adds richness that’s irreplaceable.

🗣️ 3. Include Personal Reflections

A heartfelt Artifct isn’t just about facts, it’s about feelings too. Take a moment to reflect on:

What this object means to you
How it connects to someone else
Why you’re sharing it now

These reflections will help make your Artifcts feel personal and intimate.

🎁 4. Share with Intent

When you share an Artifct, think of it as a digital gift: add a message that tells the recipient why you chose to Artifct and share this item with them. Just like thoughtful gifts in real life, these intentional Artifcts become keepsakes of the heart.

The Art of Saying “I Love You” with Artifcts

In a culture filled with fleeting interactions, Artifcts invites us to pause, reflect, and communicate what matters most. It’s more than documentation, it’s devotion. It’s a love language for our digital age. So whether you’re commemorating a birthday, sharing a treasured family memory, or simply telling someone you’re thinking of them, let Artifcts help you speak from the heart.

This Valentine's Day as you pause for a moment to absorb all the positive in life, surprise someone—friend, sister, neighbor, professor, parent, son—with an Artifct!

Happy Artifcting!

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February 11, 2026

HOLIDAYS, LEGACY, PLANNING & MORE

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