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Latest revision or update: 30 December 2011
Some References to the Great Yarmouth Jewish
Congregation
Appearing in the Jewish Chronicle 1847 - 1970
Compiled by Harold Pollins
Jewish Chronicle, 14 May 1847, page 134 (Reprinted from the
Norfolk News)
“YARMOUTH JEWISH SYNAGOGUE. - On Monday last, at Great Yarmouth, the
first stone of the Jews’ Synagogue was laid by Mr. D.L. Cohen, in
the presence of Mr. Mordecai and Mayers, and the rest of the
congregation. Psalms were read by their Rabbi. The building is under
the superintendence of Mr. Michael Mitchell, and it is supposed,
from that gentleman’s design, that it will be a great ornament to
that part of the town.”
Jewish Chronicle, 11 June 1847, page 163
“JEWISH CONGREGATION, YARMOUTH
The Great Yarmouth Hebrew Congregation beg most sincerely to thank
those kind persons whose names honour the accompanying List of
Subscribers towards the funds for building a New Synagogue at the
above place; the old one, from its dilapidated state, having been
pulled down …”
[repeated in subsequent issues]
Jewish Chronicle, 3 September 1847, page 234
“OPENING OF THE NEW SYNAGOGUE, YARMOUTH. - We have much pleasure in
announcing that the New Synagogue at Great Yarmouth was, on Tuesday
last, consecrated, the Rev. M.B. Levy, of Brighton, officiating. The
Rev. Gentleman afterwards delivered a very able discourse in
English, taking for his text Psalms xxvi. 8, “O Lord, I have ever
loved the habitation of Thy house, and the place where Thy glory
resteth.” He dwelt on the advantages of offering prayers in public,
showing that from time immemorial, the gathering of the children of
Israel together in prayer. We cannot but congratulate the Reverend
Gentleman for the very able manner and the very kind feeling he
evinced in forwarding the interests of this congregation. Among the
donations received were, a second one of £2, from Sir Moses
Montefiore, who wrote, he was sorry he could not attend the opening,
having to attend a wedding at Ramsgate on the 1st September, and
from Fras. H. Goldsmid, Esq.. £5. The whole was most ably conducted
by the officers, and was exceedingly well attended..”
Jewish Chronicle, 6 October 1848, page 7
“To the Editor of the Jewish Chronicle
Sir, - I shall esteem it a favour if you will communicate to your
numerous readers that Mr. D.L. Cohen has been elected Warden, and
Mr. Isaac Mordecai, Honorary Secretary, to our Synagogue. A vote of
thanks was given to both these gentlemen for their past services in
that capacity. We also beg to tender our thanks to our new Rabbi
(Mr. Cohen) for the talented manner in which he conducted the
services for the holidays and for the two lectures he gave on the
occasion.
I beg to remain, Sir, your obedient servant,
MICHAEL MITCHELL
On behalf of the Committee.
Great Yarmouth Synagogue Vestry, Oct. 3, 1848.
Jewish Chronicle, 19 April 1850, page 222
“Report of meeting on 7th inst ‘for the purpose of passing the
accounts of the Charitable Institution Fund - which, with a laudable
zeal, they have established for the relief of their indigent
brethren’. The report notes that members of the Norwich congregation
are subscribers as are the Mayor of Yarmouth and several members of
the Town Council and other Christian friends.”
Jewish Chronicle, 15 August 1851, page 355
“JEWISH INGENUITY AND LIBERALITY
[Extracts]
“Report of meeting on 7th inst ‘for the purpose of passing the
accounts of the Charitable Institution Fund - which, with a laudable
zeal, they have established for the relief of their indigent
brethren’. The report notes that members of the Norwich congregation
are subscribers as are the Mayor of Yarmouth and several members of
the Town Council and other Christian friends.”
‘Mr. Michael Mitchell, of Great Yarmouth, has obtained the second
prize for an improved life-buoy - an exhibition of life-boats and
life-buoys having judiciously been engrafted on the annual regatta
of that town. The committee, in awarding the second prize to Mr.
Mitchell, to mark their sense of the excellence and completeness of
the improvements, augmented the premium one-fourth over the sum
originally announced to be awarded as a second prize, the whole of
which Mr. M. generously distributed to the poor men who assisted to
test the sustaining power of the buoy. Nor did his liberality end
here; for on the day after the regatta, when a boat capsized near
the jetty-head, and two men were unfortunately drowned, it was
evident to all who witnessed the catastrophe that had there been a
life-buoy at hand the men in all probability would have been saved.
Mr. Mitchell, on hearing this presented the town with one, as
improved by him, to be constantly kept at the jetty-head for use in
case of accident.’
Jewish Chronicle, 1 October 1852, page 411
[Summary]
Attendance at Yarmouth synagogue very numerous during the ‘sacred
days’, many strangers being present. The president, Mr Isaac
Mordecai performed the three additional services. This is the 35th
time he has done that, and his age is 75.
‘The other services were very respectably gone through by the Rev.
M. B. Levy, the reader to the congregation, a gentleman who, in
addition to many other qualifications is, we hear, a most profound
Talmudical scholar’.
Mr Abraham Solomons has been elected Treasurer and several
additional members have joined the congregation.
Jewish Chronicle, 28 October 1853, page 32
[Advert]
‘To Epicures in Fish
Parcels of well-cured Yarmouth Herrings, in boxes of 100 each, are
now ready, and will be forwarded to any part of England on receipt
of Stamps or Post-Office Order for 6s. Address, Michael Mitchell and
Son, Fish Merchants, 55 Quay, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk.’
Jewish Chronicle, 13 August 1858, page 1
Death on 4th inst at his residence 2 Market-row, David L. Cohen,
Foreign fruiterer and tobacconist, aged 68. Resident in Great
Yarmouth for 40 years.
Jewish Chronicle, 17 June 1859, page 1
‘THE HEBREW CONGREGATION OF GREAT YARMOUTH
THE Synagogue of the above place requiring essential and necessary
repairs, the Members being few and not in a position the effect the
same earnestly APPEAL to their Benevolent Co-religionists to assist
them in renovating the House of God, and rendering it worthy His
sublime worship. The Rev. Dr. Adler has expressed his sympathy in
furtherance of the above object, and has kindly contributed to the
same … Donations received by the Rev. M. B. Levy, St. Alban’s-place;
Mr. J.L. Pyke, 72 Great Prescot-street, Goodman’s -fields; and at
the Jewish Chronicle Office, London; also by M. Pyke, Hon. Sec., 2,
Market-row, Great Yarmouth.’
Jewish Chronicle, 3 July 1863, page 5
Three nominated to magisterial bench, one being David Falcke.
He ‘amassed a considerable fortune in the colonial trade, and has
lately built a splendid mansion in his native town, to which he has
retired from active life’. Liberal in charitable and other
institutions in Yarmouth. Strong Liberal.
Jewish Chronicle, 4 March 1864, page 5
From the Yarmouth Independent.
‘Mr. David Falcke has this week, with his usual generosity,
distributed 25 tons of coal among the poor of the town; Mr. Falcke
has also distributed 200 quartern loaves. The recipients have
included the poor of all denominations’.
Jewish Chronicle, 7 December 1867, page 7
Obituary of David Falcke. Native of Yarmouth. Annually spent almost
one-third of income on charity. He established the Sailors’ Home.
Jewish Chronicle, 5 April 1872, page 5
In a letter about the problems of Norwich congregation:
‘…the congregations of Lynn, Cambridge, Yarmouth, and Ipswich have
all died out.’
[repeated many times in the newspaper in the 1870s]
Jewish Chronicle, 30 August 1872, page 304
‘At Great Yarmouth there was formerly a Jewish congregation, but,
unfortunately, the members have, with but a single exception,
removed from the town. There is a very good synagogue there, but six
years have elapsed since service was held there. It was, however,
temporarily reopened for Divine service on the New Moon of Ab and on
the Fast of the Ninth of Ab, and the Chief Rabbi attended, the
visitors forming Minyan. The Chief Rabbi’s residence being at a
considerable distance from the Synagogue, service was held every
Sabbath at his house, and all the Jewish visitors at this sea-port
attended.
It is a great pity that several Jewish congregations in the Eastern
Counties have ceased to exist - such as Yarmouth, Lynn, and
Cambridge. The Jewish residents remove either to the metropolis or
the manufacturing districts…’
Jewish Chronicle, 22 June 1877, page 6
‘Meeting of Board of Deputies
Letters were read from the Registrar-General and Mr. Mitchell,, of
Great Yarmouth, with respect to the disused synagogue in that town.
The Registrar-General pointed out that as the synagogue was now
disused there could be no advantage in any longer retaining the name
of Mr. Mitchell as the certified Secretary for marriage purposes…’
Jewish Chronicle, 14 February 1879, page 11
UNDER the heading of “Jewish Benevolence,” the Yarmouth
correspondent of the Norwich Argus
says: “On Wednesday afternoon, from 3 to 6 p.m., Miss Mitchell of
Regent Street, distributed among the poor of this borough 500 loaves
of bread, and the sight of the poor old people participating in this
charity was not one easily to be forgotten. The ticket distribution
was entrusted to several well-known ladies and gentlemen. We hope
others will follow the example of Miss Julia Mitchell, who enjoys
the respect of the whole town.” ’
Jewish Chronicle, 14 September 1888, page 6
‘A NEW CONGREGATION AT YARMOUTH
TO THE EDITOR OF THE “JEWISH CHRONICLE.
SIR, - We are pleased to inform you that we have at length succeeded
in forming a nucleus of a congregation here in Yarmouth. Your
readers might be aware that this town boasted a synagogue some 20
years - now, alas, converted into a mission hall; and it also
contains two Jewish cemeteries. Although at present we must content
ourselves with a “Minyan,” and we trust that we shall receive enough
support from our coreligionists to build a synagogue. We are about
engaging a minister and teacher, who we fear will only just be able
to be supported by the limited means at our disposal. Services were
held last Saturday and during Selichoth, and will be continued
during the High Festivals and then regularly every Sabbath. We trust
that an organised Jewish congregation will induce more of our
brethren to select this town as their seaside resort.
Yours obediently,
A. GOLDSTONE,
M. LEWIS
130 King Street, Great Yarmouth; 3rd September, 1888.’
Jewish Chronicle, 24 January 1890, page 20
Obituary of Michael Mitchell.
‘The late Mr. Michael Mitchell, of Holland House, Great Yarmouth,
was one of the Founders of the Synagogue, being a joint lessee with
other members. For several years the late Mr. A. White of Liverpool,
and he were left to defray the expenses of the Synagogue and
subsequently Mr. Mitchell being the sole survivor paid the whole of
the rent and incidental outlays until the expiration of the lease.
As there was no hope of another congregation being formed the
building passed from Jewish hands. Mr. Mitchell resided in Yarmouth
over 60 years and was very highly respected by both Jewish and
Christian friends. He was invalided several years from old age,
ending a long life in the utmost peace.
Jewish Chronicle, 3 September 1890, page 5
‘RELIGIOUS SERVICES AT YARMOUTH
TO THE EDITOR OF THE “JEWISH CHRONICLE.”
SIR, - I have much pleasure in informing you, that it is intended to
hold religious services in this town during the ensuing holidays.
Mr. M. Lewis has kindly offered a convenient place for the occasion
and has also provided the accessories needed. We shall be most happy
to make welcome any Jewish visitors to Yarmouth.
It has been proposed to make this a permanent congregation, the need
of a place of worship being keenly felt, there being several Jewish
families in Yarmouth and the prospect of an increase in their
numbers makes this want the more imperative. A committee has been
formed for the purpose of organisation, and a fund has been started
to which subscriptions are much needed.
Thanking you in anticipation for inserting this, I beg to remain
Yours obediently,
ALEXANDER JONES
32, St. Peters Road,
Gt. Yarmouth.
To whom all communications must be addressed, and also will
thankfully acknowledge all subscriptions.
Jewish Chronicle, 12 September 1890, page 6
Letter
Writer is glad to see that the residents of Yarmouth are bestirring
themselves to re-establish the congregation. On a recent visit the
writer was surprised to learn that while they can muster more than a
minyan they had no place of worship.
Writer suggested that they met to discuss the matter.
‘A meeting was held on Sunday the 24th ult., over which I was called
to preside, and I am pleased to say before the meeting terminated,
satisfactory arrangements were made for services to be held on
Sabbaths and Festivals at 130. King Street. The further step to be
taken towards the re-founding of this ancient congregation is the
engagement of a Schochet, but I am sorry to say that this cannot be
accomplished unless a few additional Jewish families can be induced
to settle there and contribute their quota towards the expense,
which would thus be increased’.
Hopes this letter will encourage such settlers.
Also draws attention to the poor state of the disused cemetery.
(signed) A. B. SALMEN
2, Upper Montague Street,
Russell Square, W.C.
September 8, 1890.
Jewish Chronicle, 10 October 1890, page 12
‘During the festivals services were held in Yarmouth with gratifying
result. The temporary synagogue was located at 130, King Street, and
Mr. Lewis efficiently acted as Chazan. On September 27th Master
Solomon Jones was Barmitzvah, and read a considerable portion of the
Sedrah for the day. Several visitors from London were present. The
Jewish residents intend making every effort to obtain the services
of a professional Reader and Schocket (sic)’.
Jewish Chronicle, 17 July 1891, page 14
Advert.
‘GREAT YARMOUTH, 130, KING STREET. Visitors to Yarmouth will find
comfortable apartments with Board at Mrs. Lewis’s; also dinners
supplied at moderate terms.’
Jewish Chronicle, 18 September 1891, page 16
Advert.
‘LIVE POULTRY
PRIME NORFOLK FOWLS at 1s. 10d. Per head, DUCKS at 2s. 6d.
Sent (packed free) to any address, P.O.O. to
A. JONES
32, Great St. Peter’s Road, Gt. Yarmouth.
Can be sent killed and dressed, if required. Special terms for large
quantities.’
Jewish Chronicle, 23 October 1891, page 9
Letter from A. B. Salmen (London)
He drew attention last year to the state of the disused cemetery at
Yarmouth, hoping to raise money from relatives of those buried there
for the purpose of renovation. No result. He raised the matter at
the Board of Deputies. They had not funds but they made a
collection. As a result the boundary walls of the cemetery have been
restored, the tombstones renovated and the ground put in proper
order. Thanks to ’Mr. Jones, the only surviving member of the old
congregation, who was good enough to superintend the work’.
Jewish Chronicle, 13 November 1891, page 23
‘Fifty years ago there were Jewish congregations at Bedford, Exeter,
Falmouth, Penzanace, Ipswich, Yarmouth and Jersey. All these have
ceased to exist’.
Jewish Chronicle, 8 April 1892, page 22
‘THE YARMOUTH SYNAGOGUE TO BE SOLD
Instructions have been given to Messrs. Spelman to sell by auction
on Monday next, at the Star Hotel, Yarmouth, the building known as
the Synagogue in Row 42. The present synagogue was erected in 1847,
on the site of a former one, but for some time past there has not
been a sufficient number of Jewish male residents in Yarmouth to
form a minyan. The late Sir Francis Goldsmid attended the opening of
the synagogue and in the same year he contested the representation
of the borough, although the then form of oath prevented Jews from
sitting in Parliament. Sir Francis was, however, defeated. On the
site occupied by a former synagogue in Row 108, a Masonic Hall was
erected, and it was in this hall, that in 1834 a deputation from the
Chartists’ Convention held a meeting, owing to the then Mayor having
refused them the use of the Town Hall.’
Jewish Chronicle, 15 April 1892, page 10
‘THE SALE OF THE YARMOUTH SYNAGOGUE
As announced in our last issue, the building known as the Yarmouth
Synagogue in George Street, was sold by auction on Monday. The
Synagogue has long been used as a store-house for nets and other
fishing gear. The premises, including the Synagogue and a cottage
adjoining, fetched only £150.’
Jewish Chronicle, 26 August 1892, page 13
‘The Rev. Mr. Dainow, of Leicester, being on a visit to Yarmouth,
conducted the service on Sabbath last’.
Jewish Chronicle, 13 September 1895, pages 15-16
Article entitled
"NOTES ON THE JEWS OF YARMOUTH"
by Rev. Michael Adler
First Page (PDF file)
Second Page (PDF file)
Jewish Chronicle, 20 September 1895, page 8
‘THE SALE OF THE YARMOUTH SYNAGOGUE
As announced in our last issue, the building known as the Yarmouth
Synagogue in George Street, was sold by auction on Monday. The
Synagogue has long been used as a store-house for nets and other
fishing gear. The premises, including the Synagogue and a cottage
adjoining, fetched only £150.’
Jewish Chronicle, 20 September 1895, page 8
‘Letter from N. GOLDSTON, 12 Ivydale Road, Nunhead, S.E.
Comments on Michael Adler’s article of 13 September.
Adler got list of ministers wrong. After Rev I. Cohen came S. Levy,
then M. Hirsch. Then Levi Levenberg who was the last minister. In
1863 the writer‘s father was Assistant Reader when synagogue densely
packed. In 1877 synagogue closed and the remaining 3 or 4 families
would have striven to uphold the synagogue ‘had it not been for the
then authoritative Mr. Michael Mitchell, who claimed the synagogue
and its appurtenances as his own‘.
Present. Jewish population is about 8 families ie about 40 people.
‘I understand (in fact I was present on Shobbos morning when
services were held in a small room belonging to one of the
inhabitants) that they are striving to form a congregation once more
in that ancient town, and services will be held there during the
coming Festivals’.
Jewish Chronicle, 24 January 1896, page 10
Board of Deputies meeting.
‘Mr. A.B. SALMEN handed in a letter from the Corporation of
Yarmouth, in which it was stated that the wall in the Jewish
cemetery had been repaired at the expense of the Corporation. Mr.
Salmen suggested that the Corporation should be thanked, but the
matter was deferred for further inquiry as to whether the wall in
question was, or was not, a town wall’.
Jewish Chronicle, 4 September 1896, page 1
Advert
GREAT YARMOUTH
SERVICE will be held for the coming Festivals at Mr. LEWIS’s
BOARDING HOUSE, 22 REGENT STREET. Any visitors staying at Yarmouth
will be made welcome at the Services.
[Note. Singular ‘Service’ at start of advert]
Jewish Chronicle, 16 April 1897, page 15
Advert by E. Barnett & Co.
Headed: ‘On Board my Uncle’s Fishing Smack. From the Sea to the
Frying Pan’.
Depots at Lowestoft, Grimsby, Yarmouth, and Margate.
Jewish Chronicle, 24 February 1899, page 3
WANTED, by the newly-formed Great Yarmouth Hebrew Congregation, a
gentleman to act as CHAZAN, Shochet, and Teacher. Applicants must
have the sanction of the Chief Rabbi; preference given to a married
man. Applications must be made in the first instance, in writing
only to A.B. Salmen, Esq., 2, Upper Montague-street, Russell-square,
W.C.
Jewish Chronicle, 17 March 1899, page 12
Letter signed ‘D’.
He looked at the disused cemetery. It was in a terrible state. ‘it
gave the impression of being a builders’ rubbish yard’.
Jewish Chronicle, 21 April 1899, page 21
Board of Deputies meeting.
Mr A.B. SALMEN reported that he had visited the disused Jewish
cemetery at Yarmouth about two months ago, and he had found the
ground to be in excellent order. It has quite recently been
renovated, and the gates repaired at a total cost of 25s. The
meagreness of the cost would indicate to what a small extent the
ground was in need of repairing’.
Jewish Chronicle, 28 April 1899, page 10
Letter from Mendel Lewis (‘Twenty years’ residence’)
He accompanied ‘D’ to the cemetery and his letter is ‘only too
true’. He cannot understand Mr Salmen’s report to the Board of
Deputies.
Letter from ‘D’
SIR, -Since reading Mr. Salmen’s report to the Board of Deputies, it
has dawned upon me that he has been the victim of a practical joke.
When in Yarmouth, he no doubt was taken to some cemetery, but
evidently not to the old “Beth Haim.” He has expended 25s. in
repairing the “gates”; but there are no gates there. He found the
ground in “excellent order,” and although a cart load of
miscellaneous refuse has been removed since my last letter, it is
still in a most revolting condition …
If Mr. Salmen wishes conscientiously to carry out his laudable
undertaking, he must personally see that the money he is entrusted
with is applied for the purpose intended, and that the recipient
should not be some degenerate specimen of an extinct congregation …
After the manner of professional mendicants who exhibit their
deformities to arouse the sympathies of the beholders, the burying
ground has been the deformity by which large sums of money have been
extracted from willing and unwilling victims. Still, when a pauper
funeral occurred a few weeks ago, the whole of the funds had
vanished and a collection had to be resorted to, to defray the
cost’.
Jewish Chronicle, 5 May 1899, page 10
Letter
‘SIR, - It would require an Israel Zangwill to give you anything
like an adequate description of the indignation meeting that was
called here last Sunday. It was ostensibly held to protest against
my letter in your last impression, and I was on expectation to hear
that some of my charges would be partially or wholly refuted, but
this was not the spirit of the meeting. After a babel in different
dialects of jargon had subsided my genealogy was investigate …
After various family matters had been gone into it was unanimously
decided to contradict all and everything “D” had stated, and
everyone present, consisting of four or five resident, and a few
lads, some persons who were temporarily residing here, were
requested to attach their signatures to a letter that had been
previously drawn up. My purpose in writing to you is to warn the
public for the future.
AN appeal is shortly to be made for some hundreds of pounds for the
purpose of a synagogue. There are but seven or eight permanent
residents here, and a room can be engaged for the purpose when
required. There are about 30 children here and a competent Hebrew
teacher is sadly needed. The few Jews are unable to maintain one.
Could not the Provincial Ministers’ Fund or the Jewish Religious
Education Board make a grant towards the stipend of a gentleman
approved by the Chief Rabbi’.
Jewish Chronicle, 5 May 1899, page 16
Letter sent in by Lewis Jones, Hon. Secretary. [summary]
Continues: ‘D’s’ letter said that a pauper funeral had taken place
recently. There have been 2 funerals since June. A child of Mr.
Mendel Lewis and a child of Mr. Bloom. The President Mr. Goldstone
paid and was repaid in small instalments.
They say that ‘D’ is Israel Solomons and his uncle is Mendel Lewis
and the report of A.B. Salmen about the state of the cemetery is
correct.
Signed: A. Goldstone (1130 King Street); H. Rosenthal (5 Market
Place); William Bloom (52 North Howard Street); H. Moore’ P.
Rosenthall; M. Sampson; H. Braham; L. Niman; S. Stone; S. Stone; D.
Braham, Norwich; H. Jacobs; Louis J. Harrison; J. Nimun; S.D.
Harrison; John Jones; John J. Sexton; A.M. Harrison.
Jewish Chronicle, 12 May 1899, page 9
Letter from Burton & Son re letter in last issue. Their client,
Mendel Lewis. ‘As our client is a respectable tradesman in the town
we need not point out to you that the statement that he repaid in
small instalments the cost of a funeral of an infant of a few months
old, is an absolute and mischievous fabrication, and without a
vestige of foundation’.
Jewish Chronicle, 12 May 1899, page 9
Letter from ‘D’.
‘I think you will be amused to hear that, at present there is no
“Great Yarmouth Hebrew Congregation,” although I willingly admit
that there is a President, Vice-President, Treasurer and Secretary.’
Again asks for help for children to get Hebrew lessons.
Jewish Chronicle, 19 May 1899, page 24
‘At a special committee meting of the Great Yarmouth Hebrew
Congregation, held on Tuesday, it was decided to acquire the old
synagogue for twelve months, with the option of a three years’
agreement with purchasing clause. An agreement is to be at once
drawn up and signed.’
Jewish Chronicle, 26 May 1899, page 28
‘At a meeting of the Great Yarmouth Hebrew Congregation it was
reported that the old synagogue has been acquired on a lease with a
purchasing clause. The work of repairs is now all in hand. It is the
intention to apply shortly to the Chief Rabbi for a Shochet and
Reader’.
Jewish Chronicle, 23 June 1899, page 23
Board of Deputies
‘Letters were read containing copies of resolutions passed at
meetings held at Yarmouth last month expressing confidence in the
Board’s honorary Superintendent of the disused cemetery at Yarmouth,
and a letter was read from Mr. A.B. Salmen stating that at his most
recent visit to the cemetery at Yarmouth he had found it in a
perfectly satisfactory condition of repair’.
Jewish Chronicle, 21 July 1899, page 24
‘At a special Committee meeting, Mr. Harrison reported that he had
seen the Chief Rabbi, who sanctioned the opening of the synagogue
for divine services, and who on his return from his holiday would
officially visit Yarmouth to open the synagogue. It was resolved to
open the synagogue tomorrow for divine service. Service therefore
will now be held in the synagogue, Row 42, Howard Street, every
Friday evening and Saturday morning. The President, Mr. Goldstone,
of 130 King Street, was instructed to interview a butcher with the
object of arranging for a supply of kosher meat’.
Jewish Chronicle, 4 August 1899, page 2
WANTED KNOWN (sic)
THAT the GREAT YARMOUTH HEBREW CONGREGATION have made arrangements
with Mr. W. Debbage, Family Butcher, 51 and 52, Market-place,
Yarmouth, for the supply of KOSHER MEAT.
Those visiting Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, can rely upon being
served with the best quality of meat at a reasonable price.
Any information will be gladly furnished by the President, A.
Goldstone, 130, King-street.
The Synagogue is in Row 42 and Service is held Friday night and
Sabbath mornings.’
Jewish Chronicle, 8 September 1899, page 16
Editorial
Re re-establishment of the synagogue
‘With a zeal which is beyond all praise a handful of people have
engaged a Chazan, Shochet and teacher, acquired possession of their
old synagogue, which had become converted into a mission hall,
renovated it at considerable expense and re-established public
service’.
An unprecedented number of Jewish visitors to Yarmouth this summer
has resulted in synagogue being full Friday evenings and Saturdays.
There is congregational singing, classes started for regular
practice.
What will happen after summer visitors leave? Congregation is
practically supported by two families.
Minister receives only £1 a week with free residence. Not enough.
Perhaps Provincial Ministers’ Fund could help.
Re the cemetery. In the 43 years it was opened about 25 burials.
Appeals for Jewish workingmen to go to Yarmouth from the congested
areas.
Jewish Chronicle, 8 September 1899, page 17
Revival of Yarmouth Congregation
RE CHAT WITH THE PRESIDENT [Summary]
For 30 years there was no congregation. Last member by whom it was
sustained was Mr Mitchell who died 11 years ago. Synagogue became
mission hall. But about 18 years ago A. Goldstone settled in
Yarmouth and he has held prayer-meetings in his house for past 10
years. Last December another Jew settled, L. Harrison, who had held
clerical positions at Norwich and Dunedin, New Zealand. The two men
got together and decided to re-establish the community. They got
permission from Chief Rabbi and obtained possession of the old ‘shule’,
a Chazan, Shochet and teacher was engaged. Synagogue reopened 5
weeks ago when Rev S. Pearlstein of Exeter entered upon his duties.
The writer interviewed Goldstone, President. The synagogue is in Row
42 a turning off Market Place
Synagogue is 53 years old. Adjoining is minister’s house. It is
small, for 60 people.
Has cost £70 to put in order. Rent is £15 a year. Owner is Mr
Buxton. Received many presents - Harrison family very generous,
including from his nephew Saxton from Norwich. Also from Mrs S. Fink
of London. Money from S.H. Harrison of Norwich, A.B. Salmen
(President of South Hackney Synagogue) and others.
When Goldstone came to Yarmouth the only two members left were
Mitchell and Jones. The only time it was opened was 25 years ago
when the sister-in-law of Mr Jones visited to return thanks after
illness.
They have the right to buy the synagogue outright for £230. There
were about 10 Jewish Families in Yarmouth and the synagogue
supported by 5 or 6 individuals and there were promises of support
from 2 or 3 more. Cost: Chazan £52, rent £15, rates, gas and
cleaning £10 per annum.
Chazan acts as killer, porger and shomer and gives Hebrew and
religious instruction to over 30 children.
Have not applied to Provincial Ministers’ Fund as advised the Fund
would be unlikely to help.
Visitors help with funds. Yesterday there were 35 people downstairs
and 25 upstairs. Income from tax of 1d a pound on kosher meat.
Want working-men to settle - tailors, bootmakers, (bespoke),
upholsterers, cabinet-making, wood-carvers, carpenters,
paper-hangers, watchmakers and jewellers.
Cemetery. Earliest burial 1803, latest was Joel Isaacs who died 6
February 1846. Since 1846 Jews have been buried in Corporation’s
burial ground.
Jewish Chronicle, 27 October 1899, page 24
[Start of very long report, remainder not noted]
‘Reconsecration of the Yarmouth Synagogue
INTERESTING CEREMONY
The Chief Rabbi visited Yarmouth on Sunday last [sc 22nd October]
and reconsecrated the Synagogue situate in Row 42 (known also as
“Jews’ Row”) - between George Street and Howard Street. The
circumstances which led to the ceremony were explained in the JEWISH
CHRONICLE of the 8th ult, and the Chief Rabbi in his Sermon on the
occasion also briefly alluded to the past history of the
congregation. The present building dates from 1847, but there was a
Jewish congregation at Yarmouth antecedently to that year, though
little is known of its history. The Service on Sunday marks a
resuscitation; for the congregation became moribund a generation
ago, though the Synagogue was occasionally used for divine service;
one of these occasions was sixteen years ago (about 1883), when the
late Chief Rabbi was staying with his family at Yarmouth. Minyan has
been held for about ten years past in the house of Mr. A. Goldstone,
who has made every endeavour to revive the congregation. The actual
revival was, however, chiefly due to Mr. L. Harrison, who came to
reside at Yarmouth last December and had formerly held clerical
positions at Norwich and Dunedin, New Zealand. Possession was
obtained of the old Synagogue, which had been diverted to the
purposes of a mission hall; a Chazan and Shochet (the Rev. S.
Pearlstein, of Exeter) was engaged and the place of worship
reconstituted as a synagogue. The building is a very humble
structure of limited capacity; it is probably the smallest synagogue
in England, its entire seating accommodation limited to about 60
worshippers. The repurchase of the synagogue and the minister’s
house adjoining and their renovation will cost about £350, towards
which only about £90 has yet to be collected’.
Jewish Chronicle, 13 April 1900, page 30
General meeting presided over by Mr A. B. Salmen. His appeal for
funds for buying synagogue and minister’s house had been liberally
responded to and but for the war he would have had the necessary
funds. Decided to postpone any further appeal but to negotiate with
vendor and pay a deposit.
Jewish Chronicle, 14 June 1901
Special meeting of congregation. Harrison, Treasurer, said time now
opportune to obtain permanent place of worship, because at present
could be turned out at any time. Resolution passed that members
pledge themselves to do their utmost. To issue an appeal and to
communicate with A.B. Salmen ‘who has always taken an active
interest in the Yarmouth Hebrew Congregation’.
Jewish Chronicle, 30 August 1901, page 22
Mr & Mrs Friend of Bow, on visit to Yarmouth, presented curtains for
the Ark.
Jewish Chronicle, 13 September 1901, page 29
Mr Bernstein of Ilford presented Perpetual Lamp in memory of his
father.
Jewish Chronicle, 29 September 1901, page 25
Services were conducted by E.J. Harrison (sic) who read Musaph and
Rev J. Miller who also acted as Baal Tokeah.
Jewish Chronicle, 3 January 1902, page 35
The first marriage since the re-establishment of the congregation
took place in the synagogue last Sunday. Bride was Rebecca
Marianowitz (a cousin of A. Goldstone, President) and Mr Hyman
Lewis. Several Christians were present. Wedding was solemnised by
Rev. J. Miller. L.J. Harrison, Treasurer, delivered an address and
presented the bride with a prayer-book suitably inscribed.
Jewish Chronicle, 25 August 1905, page 26
At general meeting of congregation Rev I.J. Super unanimously
re-elected Shochet for 3 years. Also thanks to Isaac Goldston of the
Dalston Synagogue for the services rendered during his stay.
[Note at marriage on 10 June 1906 I.J. Super solemnised a marriage
in Great Yarmouth Synagogue.
Jewish Chronicle, 7 September 1906, page 2
Advert
GREAT YARMOUTH HEBREW CONGREGATION
WANTED at once Chazan, Shochet and Teacher, salary 65 pounds and
perquisites. - Apply to the President, L.J. Harrison, 71,
Regent-road, Great Yarmouth.
[Note at marriage on 10 June 1906 I.J. Super solemnised a marriage
in Great Yarmouth Synagogue.
Jewish Chronicle, 2 October 1908, page 13
A new Zionist society called the Agudath Zion of Yarmouth was formed
at a public meeting held recently. Presided over by S.I.Citron, one
of Yarmouth’s most prominent citizens. Elected: S.I. Citron,
President; J. Whitehouse, Vice-President; Rev P. Levine,
Correspondent Secretary; D. Finkelstein, Treasurer
Jewish Chronicle, 20 August 1909, page 14
Letter from a visitor. He and friends went to synagogue on a Friday
evening. Enough for minyan and minister among them. Door was locked.
Minister said there would be no service as President had the key.
Jewish Chronicle, 27 August 1909, page 14
Letter from Mr Levy, 5 Kent Square, Yarmouth. Resident for 10 years.
It is not the President (Mr Williams) who holds the key but the
Trustee (Mr Goldstone). Congregation was started 11 years ago and Mr
Goldstone and late A.B. Salmen were appointed Trustees; other
officers were elected. Refers to another meeting on a Sunday when
Goldstone refused to come with the key, and synagogue is in a
‘hooligan-infested’ area (therefore dangerous for those outside
synagogue). The 20 people found other means to get into building and
found seats in a filthy condition. Mentions that one person had
wanted synagogue opened for Jahrzeit(sic) but was refused on ground
that he did not contribute, but in fact he did.
Jewish Chronicle, 3 September 1909, page 14
Letter from M.C. Williams, 20a Regent Road, Yarmouth.
As President he does not hold the key, ‘as the Trustee (Mr.
Goldstone) does not trust anyone else with them. I was one of the
party which, as Mr. Levy stated in your last issue. had to wait
outside the Shool on a Sunday morning until we forced our way in.
Unfortunately the Trustee considers the synagogue and all
appertaining to it to be his property’.
Jewish Chronicle, 10 September 1909, page 20
Letter from ‘A Nonentity’.
Refers to the meeting when Mr Levy and Mr Williams said they were
locked out. The purpose was to put the Shochet on a firm basis as he
was owed a sum of money. Several men subscribed for immediate
requirements and expressed willingness to contribute regularly. A
President, Treasurer and Secretary of the Fund were appointed. Since
then he has approached Secretary to find how things were working.
The Secretary was unable to tell him, nor could the Treasurer or
President. No books were kept, no rules, everything is in a muddle.
‘Can one wonder that the congregation cannot be carried on
successfully’.
Jewish Chronicle, 17 September 1909, page 37
Long letter from Alfred Lurie-Lever, 120 Wellesley Rd, Yarmouth
In March this year he took up residence in Yarmouth and his
father-in-law, L.J. Harrison, asked him to become a member. Harrison
explained that the congregation numbered 25 or 30 members but there
were two parties - pro-Goldstonites and anti-Goldstonites. The
writer discovered that Goldstone was the sole Trustee and has been
managing the synagogue’s finances, thus: the property of the
congregation consists of a building used as a synagogue, and a
cottage adjoining leased to a non-Jewish woman who acts as
caretaker. she pays rent of 3s a week. There is a mortgage on the
property of £150 and the rent pays the interest on the mortgage with
a little over for cleaning. At the first meeting he attended chaos
ruled. There was no chairman, no secretary, no rules, no books. He
asked for clarification. Mr Levy and Mr Goldstone tried, but with
little success. The meeting had been called for the purpose of
raising money to pay arrears of salary to the minister. It was
resolved to hold another meeting and he was asked to be Hon Sec pro
tem. At the next meeting he came with Mr Harrison but the doors were
locked. Admission was gained via the caretaker’s cottage and thence
to the ladies’ gallery. Meeting was then held under chairmanship of
Williams. A scheme was drawn up, some to pay 1/- a week, others 6d,
boarding-house keepers 21s per annum, and £8 p.a. to be paid by the
butcher for the privilege of selling kosher meat. It was hoped thus
to raise enough to discharge the liability to the minister and to
pay his salary weekly. It was resolved to inform the Chief Rabbi
that the congregation has decided to take action against the
Trustee, to discover their legal status. Mr Williams elected
President, S.D. Harrison Treasurer, and the letter-writer Hon
Secretary.
However as it was the Chief Rabbi’s 70th birthday celebrations he
refrained from troubling him. In the meantime the President and the
Treasurer undertook to see the Trustee who asked that his liability
should be take over by new Trustees ‘and the loss that he had
sustained by the sale of the cottage should be made good to him,
when he would be willing to surrender the key to the synagogue’. The
interviewers could not accept this, result deadlock. Mr. M. Moore
undertook to collect the weekly subscriptions and for 2 or 3 weeks
he submitted to the writer a list of subscribers but then said he
could not continue. Then Rev Levene (sic) undertook these duties.
But he has only brought the list on 2 occasions.
He thereupon resigned but Mr Williams (President) has not
acknowledged it.
Jewish Chronicle, 29 October 1909, page 19
President (D.L. Alexander) has intervened and the parties have
agreed to accept his arbitration.
Jewish Chronicle, 26 November 1909, page 12
Letter from Alfred Lurie-Lever
D.L. Alexander wrote to the minister Rev Mr Levene(sic) asking him
to obtain the consent of the members to accept his arbitration and
award. This was done and Alexander visited. At the meeting nearly
all the congregation attended. Crux of whole matter is this. The
Trustee, Goldstone, contends that the synagogue was purchased by
£100 lent by the late A.B. Salmen to him personally and for which
sum he says he is liable to the executors of Mr Salmen’s estate. L.J.
Harrison however contends that the money was a gift, not from Salmen
but collected by him for that purpose. But Harrison has no
documentary evidence although in the opinion of nine-tenths of the
members that is the fact. Alexander promised to see the executors of
Salmen’s estate.
This he did and wrote to Levene regretting his inability to make an
award.. He also advised the members to leave the synagogue in the
hands of the Trustee and to seek another place of worship.
Extraordinary advice as Alexander had insisted that the members
adhere to their original place of worship. At a meeting held to
consider the letter it was decided to act on his advice and asked
him to visit again with Carl Staettauer, the member foe Great
Yarmouth*. For the purpose of establishing a constitution and if
possible to publish an appeal. He wrote to Alexander on the 16th but
has had no reply. The position is now worse than ever. There is no
place of worship and the members wonder about discontinuing their
subscriptions. The money is now not enough to pay the minister.
[* That is, as the member for Yarmouth of the Board of Deputies of
British Jews}
Jewish Chronicle, 3 December 1909, page 12-13
Letters
From Alfred Lurie-Lever. He received letter from Alexander enclosing
letter from Carl Stettauer. He wrote acknowledging them and said he
was calling a meeting to consider them. At the meeting there was
much dissatisfaction at lack of ‘inclination’ of Stettauer to help.
In that case meeting decided to dissolve the congregation and that
Rev Mr Levene be given 3 months’ notice to terminate his appointment
as Minister and Shochet.
Copies of letters
From Stettauer to Alexander saying unable to help.
From Alexander to Lurie-Lever saying that congregation will have to
raise money from among themselves.
From Lurie-Lever to Alexander saying that the congregation will be
dissolved.
Jewish Chronicle, 21 December 1910, page 14
Board of Deputies.
D.L. Alexander explains why unable to give award, because not all
parties were present.
Jewish Chronicle, 11 February 1911, page 14
Jewish residents of Yarmouth presented Rev S. Joseph of Norwich who
is leaving for London with a testimonial in recognition of his
services as Mohel for the last 15 years.
Jewish Chronicle, 12 May 1911, page 14
‘YARMOUTH. A meeting of the Jewish residents of the town was held
last week at the synagogue, under the Chairmanship of Mr. L.J.
Harrison, at which it was unanimously resolved that the congregation
be re-formed. Mr. Natham Salasnick, of London, has been appointed
Minister and Shochet, and has already taken up his duties’.
Jewish Chronicle, 3 April 1914 page 32
‘The Rev. Nathan Salas, late of Great Yarmouth, has been elected
Chazan, Teacher and Shochet to the Port Talbot Congregation’.
Jewish Chronicle, 26 February 1915 page 25
‘At a special meeting of the Aberdare and Aberamon Congregation held
on Sunday, the Rev. S. Freedberg, of Great Yarmouth, was elected
Chazan, Teacher and Shochet’.
Jewish Chronicle, 23 February 1917 page 18
Board of Deputies. Report of Law & Parliamentary Committee
‘Your Committee learns that no trustees can be traced of the disused
cemetery at Great Yarmouth, the property of the Corporation, and
that the latter proposes to take it over as an open space. Your
Committee thinks that it would not be consistent with Jewish
sentiment that this should be done, and that provision should be
made by Community to prevent the secularisation and desecration of
disused Jewish cemeteries, and it therefore recommends that
immediate steps should be taken for collecting a substantial sum, as
an addition to the small amount held for the Disused Cemeteries’
Fund, and that two or three persons should be appointed as Trustees
of disused burial grounds. Mr. S.E. de Haas has kindly offered to
view the state of the Yarmouth ground’.
Jewish Chronicle, 19 December 1919 page 22
Board of Deputies Law & Parliamentary Committee
‘The Committee has learnt from the Clerk to the Yarmouth Corporation
that the City Council when the question of the sale or letting of
the disused cemetery to Trustees to be appointed by the Board was
brought up, refused to entertain either project’.
Jewish Chronicle, 18 November 1921 page 2
Death on 14 November of Louis Julius Harrison aged 61. Late Rabbi of
Norwich and Dunedin, New Zealand.
Jewish Chronicle, 13 April 1923 page 10
Obituary of Abraham Goldstone. In 1899 he founded the synagogue and
was its president the whole time that it existed. For over 40 years
lived in the borough. Death of 2 sons in Great War, one earned the
MM.
Jewish Chronicle, 29 February 1924 page 2
Death on 24 February at 74 Sutherland Avenue, Maida Vale, Mendel
Lewis, late of Gt Yarmouth.
[He also lost two sons in the war]
Jewish Chronicle, 6 June 1924 page 33
Notice. Instructions from Mr S.D. Harrison to sell by auction the
modern residence known as “Eastholme”, Euston Road..
4 reception rooms, 8 bedrooms, bathroom and offices, adjoining are a
fernery, motor garage and garden with small croquet lawn. ‘The above
would be exchanged pro rata for a house in Willesden or Finchley
district containing 3 reception and 6 bedrooms, garage’.
‘Also with possession the valuable FREEHOLD RIVERSIDE PREMISES
occupying an island site between Yarmouth Haven and the Union
Railway, covering an area of about 24,000 sq, ft.’.
Jewish Chronicle, 24 March 1933 page 2
Death on Monday 20 Marcy at 67 The Ridgeway, Golders Green, late of
Great Yarmouth, Saul D. Harrison. Wife Rebecca, father of Alfred,
Lionel, Harold, Bernard, Beatrice.
Jewish Chronicle, 31 January 1936 page 1
Death of William Bloom 28 January 1936. Daughters Rose, Ether,
Louise, Alice, son Harry.
Jewish Chronicle, 31 January 1936 page 10
William Bloom at Great Yarmouth, was the ‘last member of the
original Jewish congregation’ which he helped to found and where he
lived for forty years.
Jewish Chronicle, 17 March 1939 page 50
‘A meeting of Jewish residents in Great Yarmouth was held at the
residence of Dr. S. Rodker, in connection with the Norfolk and
Norfolk Fund for Refugees. A Committee was formed in the town, with
Dr. Rodker as Chairman, Mrs. J. Bishop, Treasurer; and Messrs. Mark
Goldstone and Henry Jacobs, Hon. Secretaries. Refugee boys have been
placed in comfortable homes in the town, and the Committee have
received applications to place domestic servants in local homes. The
address of the Hon. Secretaries is 7, Regent Road, Great Yarmouth’.
Jewish Chronicle, 24 April 1970 page 38
The old Jewish burial ground in Yarmouth to be made into a park. The
Board of Deputies has been paying two guineas a year to maintain the
graves. Has not been asked to increase the payment’.
‘The cemetery has not been used for many years and no Jewish
residents of the town are recorded today’.
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