Letter from Isaac Leeser to Zalma Rehine, March 5, 1837

This four-page letter, dated March 5, 1837, was written by Isaac Leeser of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to his uncle and confidant, Zalma Rehine, in Baltimore, Maryland. The letter details Leeser's campaign for the minister's position at Mikvah Israel Congregation. Leeser's contract was in jeopardy due to opposition from some congregants. He discusses his concerns regarding the power of the Congregational President (Parnas) over his position as Hazan. The letter is written in a small hand and fills four 8" x 10" sheets. The signature page is missing. The letter provides insight into Leeser's career and the internal dynamics of Mikvah Israel during a period of significant debate within the congregation, which occurred during the Financial Panic of 1837. In September 1837, Rev. Jacque Lyons of Surinam was considered as a candidate, but Leeser was ultimately re-elected.

Associated People/Businesses

• LEESER, ISAAC
• REHINE, ZALMA

Geography

No geographic information available.

Subjects

• Judaism -- United States -- 19th century
• Rabbis -- United States -- Biography
• Congregations, Jewish -- Pennsylvania -- Philadelphia -- History
• Mikveh Israel Congregation (Philadelphia, Pa.)
• Financial Panics -- 1837

Physical Location

Arc.MS.56, Box 3, Folder 5