Isaac Leeser's Translation of Rabbi Joseph Schwarz's Letter Soliciting Funds for Palestine, 1849

This four-page manuscript (8 x 10 inches) is a translation by Isaac Leeser of a letter dated September 13, 1849, from Rabbi Joseph Schwarz in New York to Leeser. The original letter, written in German, was a solicitation for funds for the Israelites in Palestine. This is considered an early example of a broad appeal to American synagogues for philanthropic support of Palestine, foreshadowing later large-scale organizations like the United Jewish Appeal. Leeser's translation includes notations about printing a broadside with accompanying certificates (200 copies planned). The original broadside was possibly never printed, making this translation a unique record of this early appeal. The letter details the history of Jewish presence in Palestine, the hardships faced, and the need for a permanent relief fund. Signatories include Rabbi Joseph Schwarz and Rabbi Zadok Levy. The manuscript is located in Arc.MS.56, Box 4, Folder 6.

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Geography

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Subjects

• Fund raising

Physical Location

Arc.MS.56, Box 4, Folder 6