Kfar Samir

In 1924, a family of potters, the Atallahs, put down roots in Kfar Samir. They sought a place with suitable soil for their craft, after being pressured to move their pottery from Haifa’s El Carmel station. Boutros Atallah, the family patriarch, discovered the perfect blend of soil and sand near the sea, west of Tira village. Kfar Samir became their new home. He purchased the land and relocated his family and workshop. Boutros, his wife Dora, and their seven children embarked on a new chapter in Kfar Samir. Their home became a roadside khan. They offered refreshments and lodging to travelers on the Acre-Jaffa road. Steaming coffee and fresh water awaited weary riders and their horses. The Atallah family’s life in Kfar Samir was deeply intertwined with their pottery. They built three large ponds for the clay production process. This involved mixing local soil, mountain soil, and seawater. The mixture was then kneaded with hands and feet until it reached the desired consistency. The family prepared and stored large quantities of clay each summer, ensuring a steady supply for the winter months. The Atallahs continued their traditional pottery in Kfar Samir. Boutros crafted large jars for storing water and oil. He also created smaller vessels with spouts for drinking. Dora played a vital role by adding spouts and handles to these pieces. Their pottery became essential household items, used by everyone from families to construction workers. Beyond pottery, Boutros obtained a license to sell sand. This coincided with the construction of Hadar Carmel, creating a new avenue of income for the family. Horse-drawn carts and trucks would line up to transport sand from Kfar Samir to the burgeoning neighborhood. The Atallahs’ home became a haven for new immigrants. They rented rooms to families, many of whom were Holocaust survivors seeking refuge. The family’s compound included not only the pottery workshop, but also a chicken farm. This provided a valuable source of eggs during times of scarcity. The Atallahs shared their resources generously. They lent money to those in need and even gave chicks to families to raise. Kfar Samir’s history is etched in the Atallah family’s story. Their journey as potters, their generosity towards immigrants, and their resourcefulness in providing for the community reflect the spirit of this coastal village.