As part of the launch of their new Humanities unit, Journeys, Berkeley Carroll’s fourth graders traveled to the Lower East Side Tenement Museum to deepen their understanding of immigration and the many paths that have shaped New York City.

During their visit, students met Victoria Confino, a real historical immigrant brought to life by a costumed actress. The real Victoria journeyed to New York in 1914 from Kastoria, a town in what is now modern-day Greece. Through thoughtful questions and lively conversation, students learned about Victoria’s Sephardic Jewish culture, her family life, and the challenges and hopes that accompanied her immigration journey.

Beyond their conversation with Victoria, students explored the Confino family’s tenement apartment and examined historic artifacts from the early 20th century. They discovered how everyday objects, from cooking tools to clothing, serve as primary sources, helping historians piece together stories about how people lived, worked, and built new lives in a new country.

The experience brought their classroom studies to life, encouraging students to think critically about the concept of “journeys,” not only as physical travel, but as stories of identity, resilience, and belonging.

We look forward to seeing how this meaningful trip informs their learning as they continue exploring the many journeys that shape our shared history.

View More Photos From the Tenement Museum Here