Belfast Jewish Community

Press Reports relating to the Belfast Jewish Community
1869 - 1876

Jewish Record, 8 October 1869 - description of the Belfast Jewish community

This Congregation consisting of about 15 families, celebrated the late holidays in their little synagogue situated in Inkermann Terrace. The services were conducted by Rev. Dr. Chotzner, the minister, who delivered sermons in German on both days of the New Year, on the Day of Atonement and the Fast and the last day of the Feast of Tabanacles. It is contemplated to erect a building for the purpose of Divine Worship. At present, the accommodation is very scanty, services being held in a room fitted up as a synagogue. The congregation have already acquired a piece of ground for the purpose and are only waiting for sufficient funds to build thereupon. They have, within the last fortnight, purchased land for the purpose of a burial ground, and altogether we are glad to hear the little congregation is in a flourishing and promising condition. Dr. Chotzner has also during the last week visited London for the purpose of  placing the congregation under the jurisdiction of the Chief Rabbi.

Newry Report, reported in the Jewish Chronicle, 28 January 1876

.......The following from the letter-book of Messrs. Hare, formerly eminent merchants in Cork, and now in the possession of that indefatigable collector, Mr. Franks, who will help to throw some light on this subject: "John Holmes, junior, Belfast, October 12, 1771 - I am favoured with yours of the 7th, and observe your order for the "John". I shall apply to your Jew butcher about the salmon, but am certain he will not give a certificate. Indeed, I am somewhat doubtful if any certificate is necessary. I have shipped a trifle of salmon for a Jews in Jamaica without a certificate and had no complaint."

Jewish World, 25 February 1876 

A correspondent informs us the Belfast Congregation is decreasing in numbers. This fact is to be deplored in as much, to use the correspondent's words, "A good living is too be made in Belfast by Jews, but I suppose the idea of living in Ireland frightens them".