This archival item is the last page (8" x 12") of a letter, dated sometime in 1860, written by Benjamin II to Isaac Leeser. The letter is a rebuttal to press attacks by J. K. Gutheim, the preacher and chazzan of the Portuguese synagogue in New Orleans, concerning the "Touro Monument Affair." The letter appears to be a German-to-English translation by Leeser, showing editing marks and corrections, suggesting preparation for publication. A note in a third hand is present after the signature. The Touro Monument Affair involved a controversy over the planned erection of a statue of Judah Touro, which Benjamin II opposed on halakhic grounds. This led to public disagreements, press attacks, and a withdrawal of financial support from Benjamin II's organization. The controversy was reported in several national publications, including Leeser's *Occident*. The document has been verified by Dr. Arthur Kiron and Bruce Nielsen at the Katz Center, University of Pennsylvania.
Subject: Jewish-American Relations
No additional authority information available for Jewish-American Relations.
Seven-page letter from Rabbi Henry A. Henry to Isaac Leeser, dated January 10, 1855, from New York, New York. Henry accuses Leeser of a personal vendetta, including unfounded attacks on Henry's reputation and livelihood since his arrival in America. The letter also alleges that Leeser withheld valid rebuttals from publication.
A two-page letter written by Jesse Joseph of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, to Isaac Leeser in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on January 6, 1853. The letter discusses financial matters and criticizes Leeser for neglecting Jewish events in Canada, specifically the work submitted by Dr. David.