Honoring Olga Bernsterin Kohlberg

Lisa H. looking out of the second floor of the Woman's Club .during the commemoration of Olga Bernstein Kohlberg. Mrs. Kohlberg (Olga Berstein Kohlberg) was one of the pioneer women of El Paso. In 1884 she left her home, the Rhineland country of Germany, to follow her husband Ernst to El Paso. He was a successful businessman there. Since then, Mrs. Kohlberg was a civic leader and, together with other women, brought into being many projects essential for the growing city at the Rio Grande. Serving on many boards and being active in various groups, Mrs. Kohlberg promoted educational and health issues. In the following, a few of her projects will be named to point out the diversity and intensity of her work: Together with The Ladies' Benevolent Association she established the city's first hospital in 1892 and also supported other charitable projects throughout the years. She supported the education of very young children and students; Mrs. Kohlberg was one of the thriving forces behind the establishment of the first free public kindergarten in Texas and supported the first public library, becoming president of its board in 1903. She served twice as president of the El Paso Women's Club, established in 1898, and was an honorary board member for the rest of her live. She also guided the restoration of the three parks of the city. The Kohlberg family was also active in the Jewish community, supporting the Mount Sinai Jewish congregation in 1898, and the building of Temple Mount Sinai in 1903. In a tribute to Olga Bernstein Kohlberg, Mrs. Charles A. Goetting wrote: “[T]hose of us who knew her, whose lives she touched, can vouch for her indomitable spirit, her dignity, her tolerance, her integrity, her calm, courageous manner and her persistence in working for the best for the community.” (Source: Website of the El Paso County Historical Society) Mr. and Mrs. Kohlberg had four children, three boys and one girl. Ernst Kohlberg died early, in 1910, his wife followed in 1935.