Jewish American History-Museum exhibit-Builders of America

TOURO SYNAGOGUE

The oldest synagogue building in the United States owes its existence in part to Roger Williams, a Puritan minister who was banshed from the colony of Salem in 1635 because of his insistence that "A permission of the most Paganish, Jewish, Turkish, or anti-Christian consciences and worship be granted to all men in all nations and countries."

Williams establishes the colony of Rhode Island whose charter separates church and state and allows liberty of conscience for all citizens. The colony becomes a haven for religious minorities.

In 1658 a group of Jews in Newport establish Congregation Jeshuat Israel. They break ground for their synagogue in 1759 and dedicate it in 1763.

 Commemorative plaque
Commemorative plaque by National Parks Commission

Great Families Arise

Moses Raphael Levy Moses Raphael Levy
(1665-1728)
New York merchant, subscriber to erection of the steeple of Trinity Church.		 Jacob Franks Jacob Franks
(1688-1769)
Agent of British King, contractor for British during French and Indian War. President of Congregation Shearith Israel of N.Y.		 Mrs. Jacob Franks Mrs. Jacob Franks
(1696-1756)
Born Bllhah Abigail Levy, daughter of Moses Levy and Rycha Asher.
Mrs. Isaac Mendez Seixas Mrs. Isaac Mendez Seixas
(1719-1787)
Born Rachel Levy, daughter of Moses Levy and Grace Mears Levy.		 David Franks David Franks
(1720-1793)
Merchant member of Provincial Assembly of Pennsylvania, army contractor. Tory.

Phila Franks
(1722-1811)		 Mrs. Simon Nathan Mrs. Simon Nathan
(1752-1831)
Born Grace Mendez Seixas
Used with permission of the American Jewish Historical Society

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