2005-03
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/28/2005
Lengthy 3 page beautifully penned record of the proceedings against Rabbi Solomon Jacobs (led the congregation 1853-1858). Entirely in the hand of (and with three original autograph signatures) of Solomon Valentine, the Secretary of the Board. Completely details the meeting and charges of May 11, May 12 and May 24, 1857 and the proceedings. Opens with May 11: "…Mr. S. Hart President [of the Board of Trustees] stated that he considers it his duty to bring to the notice of the board the conduct of our Hazan the Rev. Solomon Jacobs, his inattention to the duties of his office, his improper remarks and insulting language towards a member and the disrespectful remarks of the Hazan towards the congregation, his improper behavior in synagogue on Saturday May 2 and that even in the pulpit his discourse on Saturday 26 April was of a nature to displease a large number of members present and who only remained in the synagogue from the respect due to the House of God…but appeared to have entirely been lost sight of by [Jacobs] even in the pulpit. It becomes the duty of the Board to take some measure to prevent a repetition." Itemizes the findings of the Board "…with feelings of mortification and regret…the Rev. Jacobs be requested to observe hereafter more devotion while in the House of God and more punctuality in the discharge of his duties…" Valentine then details the findings of "an extra meeting held May 17, 1857" after receipt of a letter from Jacobs dated the following day. Valentine in his own hand then quotes Jacobs' reply. He writes that they took action without even giving him the chance to defend himself "…You have done this without a trial…all I have to say is that I will never officiate in a congregation that can act in such a manner. Please direct your treasurer to settle with me and consider me no longer your minister." The Board resolved at that time to accept his resignation. Valentine again (on the third page) writes report of the actions of the Board at their meeting of May 24, 1857 "…convened to take into consideration the action of the Board in reference to improper conduct of the Hazan Rev. Jacobs, his resignation and once again read into the minutes about the earlier meetings "…read for information and several members explained the improper conduct of the Hazan during the service on two Sabbaths as irreligious and disgraceful, which displeased many members in the synagogue. After due consideration [it was resolved] that the body approve the course pursued by the Board [and send a letter to Jacobs about directions, etc.]." Normal aging. Exc. +. Little known incident does not seem to have been mentioned in most histories of that Charleston congregation in any works thus far consulted.
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