Founders of Maale Adumim Recall Early Struggles and Growth of Settlement

Menachem Ansbacher, one of the founders of Maale Adumim, shares his experiences in establishing the settlement as part of the Heritage Ministry and Israel Heritage Sites Council's project documenting the pioneers of Israeli settlements. The initiative, which includes hundreds of interviews, aims to preserve the stories of early settlers across regions such as the Jordan Valley, Judea, Samaria, Benjamin, the Golan Heights, and the Galilee.

Ansbacher recounts the initial efforts to set up the settlement, describing the preparation of supplies and the building of a watchtower and water tanks on a hilltop. Despite negotiations, the first group was evacuated by the army. On a second attempt, they left one guard, Uri Ariel, who stayed alone with rotating support. The area felt deserted and barren.

The significant breakthrough came on the seventh night of Hanukkah when about 20 families moved in despite lacking electricity and infrastructure. Ansbacher was appointed the settlement's security officer, facing many challenges but fostering a strong community spirit. Over time, the settlement developed into a proper town.

However, the government initially restricted the settlement's growth. To support expansion, a Hesder Yeshiva was established with a small group of students and rabbis. The settlers, including secular families, supported the yeshiva students by sharing facilities, creating a successful integration between the community and the religious institution.

The full interview is part of the "The Pioneers" project, which documents the founding stories of Israeli settlements for future generations.