This episode explores the remarkable story of Miami pioneers Isidor and Ida Cohen, whose lives and contributions helped shape the city’s early history. Isidor Cohen arrived on the banks of the Miami River in February 1896, months before Miami was incorporated, determined to become one of the first merchants in the fledgling community. His journey to South Florida was not without challenges, but he successfully established a store in a building leased from the Brickell family on the south side of the river before relocating to the emerging business district on the north bank.
Following his marriage to Ida in September 1904, the couple became influential figures in both the business and civic life of the young city. Over the ensuing decades, they played important roles in Miami’s growth, contributing to its commercial development while helping build many of the community institutions that would leave a lasting impact on the region. As one of Miami’s earliest settlers and merchants, Isidor Cohen occupies a prominent place in the city’s history, and together the Cohens are widely regarded as the “first family” of Jewish Miami.
Tune into this week’s podcast episode to hear more about Isidor and Ida Cohen. You can download this episode on your favorite podcast platform (iTunes, Stitcher, Soundcloud, Spotify) or listen directly on the Miami-History website. Please remember to click on the subscribe button and to provide a rating and comment on any of the platforms where this podcast episode is available.
