From Anonymous Donation To Cultural Treasure - Levis Jewish Community Center Gifts Historic Kimonos To Morikami Museum And Japanese Gardens

What began as a donation to the Levis JCC Resale Boutique in East Boca has evolved into a meaningful act of cultural stewardship. The items, left in a cardboard box at the Boutique’s donation drop-off door, arrived with no identifying information about their origin or ownership. Eric Goldman, Vice President of retail services, recognized the craftsmanship and potential historical value of the garments and later proposed donating the pieces to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens to ensure proper preservation and interpretation.

According to Carla Stansifer, Chief Curator, the donation includes a white wedding kimono (uchikake in Japanese) possibly dating to the 1920s, as well as a black formal kimono (tomosode) that would have been worn during traditional ceremonies. Final details are pending confirmation by Morikami’s curatorial team.

The items will be added to Morikami’s Museum Collection, where their artistry, symbolism and ceremonial significance can be preserved and shared with the public. “This was a moment where we had to pause and think beyond resale value,” said Goldman. “These pieces clearly carried cultural and historical weight. Partnering with Morikami ensures they are preserved with the care and expertise they deserve, while allowing their story to live on in a way that benefits the broader community.”

“We are honored to receive these garments and help steward their story,” said James Rodgers, the Museum’s Collection Manager/Registrar. “Kimonos are deeply symbolic, reflecting artistry, tradition, and important life moments. We are grateful to the Levis JCC for recognizing their significance and entrusting them to us. We look forward to exploring ways to share their significance with the community.”

This donation marks the beginning of a collaborative relationship between the Levis JCC and Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, with opportunities for future programming, educational initiatives, and community experiences already under consideration.

About Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center

Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center promotes and enhances Jewish culture, heritage, and values through educational, spiritual, social, wellness and recreational programs for individuals of all ages. With a preschool, summer camp, family activities, athletics, cultural arts, adult enrichment, and special needs programming, as well as a Resale Boutique, the Levis JCC offers something for everyone. A comprehensive renovation is underway, with completion anticipated in Fall 2026, to ensure the facility remains comfortable, accessible, and welcoming while supporting the continued growth and success of its programs and services for years to come. For more information, visit: https://levisjcc.org.

About Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens has been a center for Japanese art and culture in South Florida since opening in 1977. Morikami invites guests to discover its South Florida history, connection with Japan, and explore a series of six diverse gardens, each inspired by a different historical period and style of Japanese gardening. Visitors experience traditional and contemporary Japanese culture through engaging exhibits, varied educational programs and seasonal events, a world-class bonsai display, Pan-Asian cuisine, and a distinctive museum store. The Morikami Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. For more information, visit: www.morikami.org.