Who We Are

I’m Ronnie Ludwin, the founder of Southern Jewish Journeys — immersive, multi-day group experiences that explore the Jewish South. I’m a former Birthright leader, public school educator, and licensed tour guide. Though I grew up in New Jersey, my family had vacationed in Charleston every year since I was born. Moving here permanently was a dream come true, and living in the South opened my eyes to something truly remarkable: vibrant and unique Jewish communities whose stories are too often overlooked — and which I’m proud to now call home.

I founded Southern Jewish Journeys with a simple but powerful mission: to shine a light on one of the most untold stories in Jewish, American, and even world history — the Southern Jewish experience. Some of the earliest and most influential Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jewish communities were here in the South, in places like Charleston, Savannah, and small coastal towns you’ve likely never heard of. In fact, Charleston had more Jews than New York City for nearly 130 years, until the 1820s.

But these are not your standard Jewish heritage tours. Each journey is private, curated, and designed to connect Jewish history with the broader Southern story. Together, we’ll explore centuries-old synagogues and cemeteries, as well as learn about Jewish Revolutionary patriots, spiritual leaders, and the intertwined histories of Jews and African Americans — from the painful realities of slavery and segregation to the ways these communities have shaped one another.

For a richer experience, journeys also feature Southern highlights like a boat excursion to Fort Sumter, a culinary tour, or a Gullah heritage tour (music included!).

Along the way, we collaborate with respected historians from local universities and cultural institutions, ensuring every experience is as meaningful as it is memorable.

Whether you’re a synagogue, federation, JCC, school, senior community, or corporate group, Southern Jewish Journeys offers a chance to experience history richly, honestly, and unforgettably.

From the Negev…

To the South!