Jamra – n. Arabic: cinder, ember, coal
When my great-grandfather, Michael Abujamra arrived with his family at Ellis Island, the immigration authorities changed his name to something more “American” sounding. By the time they left the queue, the Abujamras had become the Josephs.
The name Abujamra translates roughly as the keeper or father of the coals or embers. This was a name that originated with the person in the village whose responsibility it was to keep coals burning and to ensure that cookfires and heat were always available.
Though the family name was changed, Lebanese traditions persisted and the family name of Abujamra was kept alive in spirit and fellowship. Family events always featured amazing Lebanese food and to this day I still have the doumbek drum that my great grandfather brough with him.
To celebrate my Lebanese heritage and pay homage to my family that gave up their name to build a new life halfway around the world, Jamra guitars carries on the tradition of keeping that ember burning though the power of music.
