Defying the Nazis: Waitstill & Martha Sharp

Most of you know the story of Waitstill Sharp, the former minister of our church, and his wife, Martha, who risked their lives during World War II to assist refugees fleeing Nazi persecution. Their humanitarian efforts earned them recognition as “Righteous Among Nations” by Yad Vashem, one of the highest honors for those who aided the Jews during the Holocaust. 

On Wednesday, April 15, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., the grandson of the Sharps,

Artemis Joukowsky, will talk about his grandparents’ legacy at the Wellesley

Historical Society, which has been totally renovated and is located next to UU

Wellesley Hills. Drawing from decades of research and personal connection,

Joukowsky has dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the Sharps’ story,

including co-directing the PBS documentary Defying the Nazis: The Sharps’ War.

His presentation offers a powerful, firsthand perspective on the moral courage, sacrifice, and lasting impact of two important leaders of our church, whose actions changed countless lives.

Learn more and r.s.v.p. here:  https://www.wellesleyhistoricalsociety.org/events-

archive/exhibit-spotlight-2026