2004-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004
Although Jews had settled in that busy seaport town as early as the 18'th century they were few in number and their first formal congregation not formed until 1854 (first synagogue not built until 1890). Neatly penned single page letter (blank reverse) from Providence 13 June, 1854 to Isaac Leeser: "I beg leave to inform you that we have established a Congregation here in Providence. The members met together last Sunday and signed their names for supporting the society with 50 cents each every week, and named it Bene Israel. They elected their officers [he lists names of each] and engaged me as their minister and promised me five dollars and fifty cents weekly salary without other income. They also promised to have a hall ready to perform and deliver our prayers to our holy God [Hebrew words] and to fix everything in a suitable manner. They also bought already a [Hebrew words] and are to make around it a fence…" request that Leeser sends his Occident. Written and signed by Joseph Spina. Light aging to paper; a few minor small stains. Some fading, but entirely readable. Back sheet acts as cover with address and Providence postmark.
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