Activities of the small Jewish community in upstate New York

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004

Handsomely penned three page letter from head of that community S. Levin to Isaac Leeser as "editor of the Occident / Phila" from Syracuse, N.Y. Oct. 7, 1852. Answering Leeser's request "…and deeming it a duty, I tender you a report of our congregation 'Cheneseth Shalom' within the late holidays [the New Year]. The synagogue was well attended and two sermons were delivered by our worthy minister Rev. H. A. Henry on our [Hebrew word] Sabbath; the other during the festival Succoth…delivered in a manner which delighted the entire audience…and give great credit to Mr. H. The prayers were read on [Hebrew words] by Mr. H. in a very impressive style which not only satisfied the congregation but impressed them with a feeling of true devotion. Synagogue was attended by many strangers from different parts of the state, who in concert with our members have contributed liberally towards the support of the synagogue…weeks ago our respected President Jacob Stone resigned, whereupon Isaac H. Bromer was elected…everything in our congregation appears to work well towards prosperity. …Our minister's time expired October 1'st. He signified his intentions to retire from this City having had overtures to take another office much more lucrative…and a larger congregation. But he is held [in such high regard] by our congregation [that] he was prevailed upon to remain among us, to which he kindly consented…the affairs of the congregation have been benefitted during his administration, of which we have had sufficient proof. …I will say in short that [the congregation] wish to engage his services for as long a period as he may feel disposed, in opposition to the usual customs in [America] of electing ministers annually." Levin apologizes for not acquiring new subscribers for the OCCIDENT. Bottom of page 3 adds a postscript from another member of the congregation entirely written in few lines of German language. Signed only "D.O." Exc. +.

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