Subject: Privateering

This pamphlet contains the text of an address delivered by William Sheffield before the Rhode Island Historical Society on February 7, 1882. The address focuses on the owners of privateer vessels operating between 1741 and 1783, specifically mentioning Moses Levy, Isaac Hart, and Napthali Hart and their involvement with various ships. Sheffield's address provides valuable insights into the maritime history of Rhode Island and the roles played by Jewish merchants in privateering during that period. Notably, the address highlights the absence of Lopez or Gomez families among the documented privateer ship owners, suggesting further research into their potential involvement.

A letter dated May 13, 1800, signed by Moses Franks and George Phillips, merchants from the United States, in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. The letter addresses the capture of a seaman by a privateer, noting the absence of an American consul in St. Thomas at the time.

This 10" x 14" ledger contains 404 pages detailing business activities in Philadelphia between 1775 and 1784. The records encompass a wide range of mercantile transactions, including prize ships, ship partnerships, privateering ventures, and even a discounted note from Benjamin Franklin during his time as minister to France. The ledger features numerous entries involving prominent colonial merchants, many of whom were Jewish, such as Haym Salomon, Michael Gratz, Isaac Moses, Levy Marks, and others. Notably, the ledger lacks entries for Robert Morris. The record-keeping ceases during the British occupation of Philadelphia.

Issue of the New-York Mercury newspaper published in New York, New York on November 8, 1756. Includes advertisements for Gomez and Hays, a distinguished merchant and constable who served in the French and Indian Wars.

Original manuscript privateering contract for the sloop Tryal, under the command of John Robinson, with Joseph Wood and Mordecai Sheftall as beneficiary merchants. Dated June 30, 1758, Savannah, Georgia. The contract includes 36 signatures and wax seals of the seamen. Two pages, 18.25" x 14.75".

This book is a copy of *Raziel Hamalach*, a kabbalistic treatise, from the library of Samuel Judah (August 19, 1728 – October 19, 1781), a significant figure in 18th-century American Jewish life. The book contains Judah's personal annotations, including a quote from Alexander Pope and a reflection on the nature of man, dated January 7, 1760. Judah's birth and marriage dates are also inscribed on the title page. This item offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual life and intellectual pursuits of a colonial American Jew. The book also contains information about Judah's involvement in the American Revolution.