Seattle Sephardic Community collection, approximately 1850-2015

Published by Israelite Community of Thessaloniki (Greece). Alternate titles: Hagada DE Pasqua, Hagadah Shel Pesah. White cover with an illustrated blue border featuring scenes of Passover. The last page and the back cover are detached, both pages feature a unique illustrations.

1992 reprint of Seder Hagadah shel Pesaḥ : ʻim ha-pitron bi-leshon Sefaradi (Livorno, 1825) on DVD. Introduction in English.

Handwritten Soletreo notes on ten pages of notebook paper. Pages are held together by a safety pin.

Ha-Me'or : Yarḥon muḳdash le-khol ʻanfe ha-Torah ṿeha-Yahadut. ha-ʻOrekh M. Lisman. Published in Tel Aviv, Adar 795 [1935]-Tishre-Kislev 696 [1935]. Italian 20 cent postage stam on back. Handwritten inscription in Hebrew and in Latin letters : "Roma Proffessor Kahan Filipo Xasini 5 (Dr. Vial del re).

Pizmonim le-Rosh ha-Shanah ve-Yom Kippur : selon une traduction libre en "Ladino" de S.E.M. 'Su Eminencia Monsieur (Morenu?)' Reuben Eliahu Israel, Grand Rabbin de le Communuate Israelite de L'ile de Rhodes. Green soft cover with a red spine. Printed on the cover in Hebrew script, "M. E. Capelluto." Ladino and Hebrew hymns printed in Latin characters according to a French pronunciation, accent. The first page includes a dedication in memory of members of the Capelluto and Toruiel famies, the Jews of Rhodes who were depoted to their deaths, Conrad Franco president of the Sephardic community of Brussels and rabbis, Reuben Eliyahu Israel, Chelebi Codron, Dr. Reuben Riccardo Padifici, Dr. Isidore Kahan, and Haham Yoseph Hai Franco. R. Two page introduction from Moise E. Capelluto. This edition includes 12 songs.

Most of the documents in this file are photocopies of identical letters from the Benveniste family documents (ST01099), which have been translated. Approximately 30 pages of photocopies of letters and notes collected by Joseph Benveniste regarding his attempts to locate and aid survivors of the Holocaust from the Island of Rhodes immediately after travel to Rhodes was permitted after the war. Letters are in Ladino, English and French. File includes 11 items primarily written by Joseph Benveniste and Maurice Alhadeff. The first file includes 7 pages of handwritten notes and letters, 6 in English and one letter in Turkish regarding the search for survivors. File also includes 3 typed pages listing the names of 108 surviving refuges from Rhodes in Milan and Rome. Letter III. Letter from The Kingdom of Greece, The Jewish (literally Israelite) community of Rodos [Rhodes] printed on the letterhead in Greek. This letter contains a list of 37 people from Rhodes beginning with 26 members of the Alhadeff family in addition to members from the Almeleh, Amato, Arughetti, Benveniste and Benatar families.

Lista de los Monastirlis que biven en Bitola i otras sivdades de Yugoslavia i Belgrade. The list includes many well known family names; Aruesti, Kolonomos, Pardo, Kastro, Calderon, Baruh, Faradzi, Ichah, Hason, Kasorla, Camhi / Kamhi, Levi, Nahmias, Todelano, Romano, Sadikario, Chami, Russo, Misulam, Alve, Testa, and Kohen.

Titles: Me Gustavas, Mi Finjan es Medio (My Cup is Half), Despues anos biviendo komo sivdadanos Espanoles, Pishkado y Pishalera, El Pastel (The Pie), Voodoo in Ladino, Aksilik y Suenos, O Dyo Santo, O Dyo mio (O Saintly Lord, O God of Mine), El valz sorpresa Haydn (Haydn's Surprise Waltz), and Tabbouleh Salata (Tabbouleh Salad). Some handwritten, some typed. Some have accompanying English translations.

Collection of 248 Dicha's (Ladino sayings) written by Albert Arditti. A. Two pages including 20 Ladino proverbs handwritten in Latin script. B. One and a half page letter (back of page) including 25 Ladino sayings. C. 8 pages including 203 dichas handwritten in Latin script on yellow notebook paper.

Set of two photographs of the interior of the of a synagogue: the first picture features the aaron kodesh framed by chairs. Inscription on the back of the picture "Questo e il Nuovo Tempio Spagnolo remodermato a spese di Limentam Graziano, 1933." The second photo is of the of biima and candlesticks. Two sentence inscripton on the back which mentions "Rome 25-7-51." Possibly taken in Rome or Padova.

Yellow invitation card for Sephardic Bikur Holim Auxiliary's "Surprise Night" at the Herzl Conservative Synagogue Vestry Room. Saturday Night April 27, 1935. Half of the proceeds for the Sephardic Talmud Torah. Handwritten in English on the back of the invitation card; "8th …., standing lighting the candelabras, R. Capeluto, Mrs. Capeluto, Solver threads, … the gold, by Lora Cordevero." Also includes typed description.

The first page features a picture of Rabbi Solomon Maimon. Event location The Seattle Talmud Torah. Includes a page (p.3 / image 5) "We Salute Them" in honor of members of the Sephardic Community (mostly SBH families) that were serving in the U.S. armed services. The list of almost 100 names. The dinner featured a musical performance by the soprano vocalist Sue Oziel accompanied on piano by Pearl Calvo. Benedictions led by Rev. David Behar, introduction by Rabbi Solomon Maimon and Rabbi Wolf Gold was the evening's main speaker. Guests of honor included; Rabbi A.E. Poplack, Rabbi Isidore Kahn, Rabbi Solomon Wohlgelernter, Rabbi Baruch Schapiro and Rabbi Raphael Levine. Includes two pages with picture of the hospital train raised for the US war effort.

A. "Ezra Bessaroth Jubilee Program, 50 Years of Spiritual Success" December 1960. Includes a "Rabbi's Message" by Rabbi Abraham Shalem. The cover of the program features the image of the plans for the new building in Seward Park area. B. Two letters from Victory Barkey addressed to Dr. Harry Tarica and Victor Capeloto expressing gratitude for their devoted efforts in celebrating the Ezra Bessaroth 50 year celebration. C. Marc D. Angel article "Progress" - Seattle Sephardic Monthly 1934-1935. D. Three blank pages with the official letterhead of Congregation Ezra Bessaroth. Two pages were from the era of Rabbi Kahan and Rev. Behar with Ralph Benaroya as president. The other page must be from 1960-1961 as Rabbi Abraham Shalem was the Rabbi and Victor Barkey was president. E. Two seat tickets to high holiday services at Ezra Bessaroth 1958 and 1974.

Bulletin, Thirteenth Annual Thanksgiving Banquet Ladies Auziliary, The Clarion newsletter (Feb. 1945), Messenger newsletter (Sept. 1960), and Jubilee program. A. "Congregation Ezra Bessaroth Bulletin" edited by Rabbi Dr. Isidore Kahan and Rev. David J. Behar. September, 1943. Includes the following articles "Teach Thy Children" by Rev. David J. Behar and "The New Year" by Rabbi. Dr. Isidore Kahan. B. Banquet Program, Thirteenth Annual Thanksgiving Banquet of the Congregation Ezra Bessaroth Ladies Auxiliary. November 26, 1944. Includes the names of donors that sponsored the event. C. "The Clarion", February 1945. Published by the Ezra Bessaroth Congregation. D. "The Ezra Bessaroth's Messenger," No. 1. Vol. 1. September 1960. Includes an article "Yamim Noraim" (The Days of Awe) by Rabbi Abraham Shalem. E. "Ezra Bessaroth Jubilee Program, 50 Years of Spiritual Success" December 1960. Includes a "Rabbi's Message" by Rabbi Abraham Shalem. The cover of the program is golden and the front features the image of the plans for the new building in Seward Park area.

Edited by David M. Bunis and Stephen Levy, Brooklyn, New York. Issue 3-4 is the Fall/Winter 1976-77 edition; issue 5-6 is the Spring/Summer 1977 edition. Much of this edition is dedicated to the Salonika Fire of 1917.

One page letter addressed Dr. Harry Tarica, President. Congregation Ezra Besaroth, 15th Avenue and East Fir Street, Seattle, WA. Dated February 16, 1938. Handwritten on the top of the letter; "Copy to Rev. Behar."

Two invitations to "Snowball" events, two dance cards, and one modern explanation card. One dance card includes multiple names, the other features only one.

The first page is a 1986 letter from Isaac Maimon regarding several boxes of "Archives of the Sephardic Brotherhood." The second page is a translation by Isaac Maimon of the SBH board notes beginning October 29, 1928 and ending in 1930. Photocopies also include Isaac Maimon's translation of the 4th, 5th, and 6th meetings as well as the 17th through the 21st meetings ending January 28, 1929. Includes of photocopy of the Souvenir Program from the Seattle Talmud Torah Inauguration Program dated, February 11, 1945 and featuring a picture of Rabbi Solomon Maimon. Includes a copy of the February 11, 1945 Souvenir Program page; "We Salute Them" a tribute to "the members of our organization who answered the call to the colors." The list includes the names of approximately 100 men from the Seattle Sephardic Community then serving in the armed forces. Photocopies include [Rev.] David J. Behar's letter to the Sephardic Bikur Holim from Dec. 12, 1918 as well as Isaac Maimon's English translations. The letter is co-signed by Jacob De Leon. The letter is written in Soletreo script and the letterhead is from Sephardic Talmud Torah of Seattle, which is printed in both Hebrew and Latin characters. Rev. David J. Behar wrote to SBH encouraging members to send their children to attend the Sephardic Talmud Torah. Another Soletreo letter, also translated by Isaac Maimon is from Ezra Bessaroth Congregation to the Sephardic Bikur Holim. The letter is dated July 20th, 1921 and discusses purchasing a building for their congregation. An additional Soletreo letter and the translation by Isaac Maimon is dated January 11, 1925. The letter is addressed to the Sephardic Bikur Holim from the Committee of the Ahavath Ahim and was signed by the secretary, Solomon Behor Condiotte. Photocopies include a page from La Boz (?) that feature letters from the members of the community that were serving in the military during World War II. Two letters, one from Sam Akrish and the other from Sol Altabet thank the congregation for sending a Chanukah package. A similar page includes a letter from Michael Ovadia thanking the congregation for the gift he received while serving in the military. In an article "Sixth War Loan Drive" it states that SBH purchased $155,000 worth of War Bonds.

One envelope of 33 postcards depicting various black-and-white scenes of Israel and Israeli officials. Postcards are contained in the official envelope of the Collegio Rabbinico Convitto, Rodi (Egeo). Printed on the the manila envelope. בית ספר ליבנים פנימי רודיס. Handwritten on the envelope "Ausichten [sp: Aussichten] von Eretz-Israel" Photos include images of Ze'ev Jabotinsky, Theodor Herzl, Meir Dizengoff, Mayor of Tel Aviv. All other cards are images of Tel Aviv and Haifa. Other cards show images of Bathing Season in Tel-Aviv, Haifa harbor and steam ships. No inscripts on the back of postcards. Printed on the back of the postcards "Copyright by Eliahu Bros. - Jaffa and Tel- Aviv" in Hebrew and English. "Made in Italy" printed in English.

Approximately 90 (mostly single sided) letters handwritten in Ladino in Latin script on thin fragile Air Mail. There are approximately 5 letters typed in Ladino in Latin script, 5 pages in Soletreo, 8 pages in French, one page in Turkish Arabic and approximately 20 envelopes. File includes letters dating between 1921-1965 primarily from Rhodes, Elizabethville [Lubumbashi], Congo; Rhodesia [Zimbabwe], Africa. Also includes bank statements from Seattle National Bank and Belgium Amercian Banking Corp.

Postcard with black and white photograph of two toddler-aged children, an older boy and a younger girl. Another postcard dated 1923 features a nude infant. Printed on the back of the postcard; "Cartolina Postale, Carte Postale d'Italie." The postcard is addressed to George Alhadeff in Seattle Washington. The postcard is handwritten with both Soletreo and Latin script.

Photocopies of 18 letters written to Jentille (Jentie) Victor Amira family letters from 1973 to 1986 in Ladino. The letters appear to be from cousins in Turkey, from approximately 5 to 10 different writters. Names mentioned in the letters include Sarah Varon, Joya Varon, Rashel and Albert Gatenyo, Rose and Isaac Motola, Davit Motola. All letters are written in romanized Ladino. Included among this file is an email from Eydie Gorme to Marcia Wiviott regarding their family connections in Turkey. Also included in this file is a copy of Isaac Azose's Ladino biography of his father's immigration story and a letter Ike wrote to Moshe Shaul. Also includes a photocopy of the La Vara advertisement to purchase books from Shabbatai Naon in Seattle.

Ester Alhadeff's family letters, including letters addressed to Kathie Barokas. Includes letters written in Ladino in Latin script and letters written in English. Photocopy document is George Alhadeff's ship manifest copied from Ancestry.com.

15 items including letters, cards, envelopes, list, notice, and notes. Includes materials in Ladino, English, French, and from Rhodes, Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Chicago. One letter in reference to the Rhodes Survivors Aid Committee of New York.

Two family portraits of the Bohor Levi family. 1. Picture features Mr. and Mrs. Levi sitting with a child on their lap. Postcard is handwritten in Ladino script. 2. Picture features Mrs. Levi sitting on a chair and Mr. Levi standing with his to adolescent sons.  Handwritten in Soletreo; "Rekordo afeksionado de vuestros karos tios Bohor Levi." Addressed to Mrs. Esther Alhadeff, Seattle-Wash. Dated 15/5/24 from Rodi.

Handwritten Ladino letter in Latin script from Corinne (nee Carasso) Bourla in Tel Aviv to her niece Lucy (nee Carasso) Henigson [in Dallas?], 1977. The letter was written on stationery featuring an image of flowers. Written on both sides of the letter and signed by Corinne. Two page handwritten Ladino letter in Latin script addressed to Lucy (nee Carasso) Henigson from her aunt Corinne (nee Carasso) Bourla in Tel Aviv, 1978. Letter is written on 3 out of 4 sides of the letters. The pages are numbered but the as follows; the front first page [I], back of first page [III], front of page 2 [II], back of page 2, [blank].

Handwritten theatre script from Esther Cohen, Rachel [Rashel] Friedberg's mother. Includes Soletre signature on the inside cover. Approximately 200 pages, 180 pages include handwritten text. Text is written from right to left and upside in the journal. The cover is loose on the gutter.

Clipping from the Jewish Transcript about Haim De Leon (approximately 1943), page from the Ezra Bessaroth bulletin "The Clarion" with an article about Hayim DeLeon including reprint of an article by Rabbi Dr. Kahan (approximately 2002, article originally from approximately 1943), and a printout from the Ellis Island passanger record for Haim Leon (2001).

1. Certificate recognizing Gordon DeLeon's 54 years of service and confirming his status and seal of "Ionic" in Lodge #90. October 24th, 1992. 2. Certificate recognizing Gordon DeLeon's 50 years of being a Scottish Rite Mason as a member of the Seattle Orient of Washington. "From the Grand Orientat Charleston in the State of South Carolina, October 5, 1993." 3. Picture of Gordon DeLeon and friends dressed for a Shiners' event. The Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, also commonly known as Shriners and abbreviated A.A.O.N.M.S. The picture features left to right; Joseph and Rebecca (nee Varon) Souriano, Jack and Regina Caston, Gordon and Sally (nee Ovadia) DeLeon, George and Esther Alhadeff, Sam and Betty (nee Policar) Alhadeff.

1. Certificate recognizing Gordon DeLeon for "His outstanding Service As President" on the Occasion of Ezra Bessaroth's 80th Anniversary. Dated May, 20th 1990. 2. Unknown newspaper clipping featuring Sol Halfon and Gordon De Leon receiving plaques for their services to Israel. 3. History of the Seattle Sephardic Brotherhood by Gordon DeLeon, 4 pages. Dated March 1988. Article is also available online: http://www.rhodesjewishmuseum.org/ssb/history.htm 4. Invitation to the Ezra Bessaroth Testimonial Dinner honoring Gordon DeLeon. November 12, 1978. 5. Photocopy of the Seattle Times article on the Ezra Bessaroth mortgage burning ceremony. Article appeared on March 2, 1964. The photograph is already available online through the UW library http://digitalcollections.lib.washington.edu/cdm/singleitem/collection/jhp/id/298/rec/17 6. Original photograph courtesy of The Seattle Times of the Ezra Bessaroth synagogue dedication ceremony from 1960. The picture features Louis C. Gerstein, Morris Tarica, Dr. Rabbi Isidore Kahn and Gordon DeLeon. "A ceremonial exchange of keys." 11 x 8 inch photograph. 7. Original photograph of "Men holding Torah scrolls during Kol Nidre service at Congregation Ezra Bessaroth synagogue, Seattle, 1957" 11 x 8 inch photograph, courtesy of the Seattle Times. Left to right: Ike Ovadia (back to camera), Albert Ovadia, Morris Grife, Grife's sons, Morris Tarica, Gordon DeLeon, Max Bensal, Louis Hasson, Albert Galanti, Rev. David J. Behar, Elazar Behar, Dr. Harry Tarica.

1. Photograph featuring Miriam DeLeon (nee Hasdai Hasson) on the Island of Rhodes. Dated "Le 12/4/926." Handwritten on the back "Miriam Leon (Haim's Mother '29)." 6 inch length x 3 ½ inch width. 2. Photocopy of a picture of 5 girls in Rhodes. This picture features Estrea (nee Israel) Shahon with 4 of her Leon cousins. Soletreo inscription on the back of the original photo. 3. Photograph of four girls in Rhodes. Ladino inscription on back of the postcard. Addressed to "Monsieur and Madame Haim Leon, Seattle, WA." Dated "5/12/1921". 4. Wedding photograph. First row right to left: Mark Peha, Leatrice (De Leon) Gutmann Lucille (Almeleh) Spring. 5. Original check from H. Epstein to Leon Shoe Rep. Inc. The check is for $10 and dated November 28, 1932. 6. An article (photocopy) about Valerie Mizrahi a professor of Molecular Biology at the South African Institute for Medical Research. Handwritten note on the article indicating that she is a relative of Haim DeLeon. 7. Picture of Gordon DeLeon wearing a white fedora and white shoes. (1930's?).

Some materials are photocopies. A. One copy of a class photo from the Alliance Israelite Universelle School in Izmir. (May 20, 1912). Teacher is wearing a fez, approx. 30 boys in class. Handwritten on the photo "Souvenire du professeur B. H. Chikiar. B. One page letter addressed to Victor, dated March 1983 explaining the class photo. Includes the names of the students: Dave Cohen, Salvo Aras, Jack Israel, Henry Cohen, Vitaly Crespin, Joe Levy, Ralph Levy?, Albert Arditti. Two page photocopy of a certificate "to verify the birth certificate of Avram Ardiit, born in Izmir, Turkey in 1899. His father's name is Ilya." From the Turkish Consulate General, dated, Dec. 29, 1970. (Text is very faint). The first page is in English and the second in Ottoman-Turkish. C. Two page copy of Albert Arditti's Ottoman Identity Card, brown paper printed in Ottoman-Turkish. D. "The Seperations," a three page biographical story about a girl (Asa or Philosoph family?) born in Bulgaria. E. A two page (double sided) letter from Albert Arditti to his daughter Elsa regarding their family tree, dated 4.26.1982. This letter includes 4 generations of the Arditti family of Izmir. F. A three page letter regard the family tree of Bulisa and Nissim Assa of Bulgaria, the parents of Mrs. Sarah Ardittee (nee Pilosof).

Includes Ladino songs by Isaac ben Abraham de Boston, typed in purple ink in Latin script. Songs includes Los Halusim, A La Dulse Sion, Tefila ha-Ani (Orasyon de un prove generozo), and Im Ein Ani Li, Mi li? (Si non yo para mi, Quien?). Also includes "Words of the Sephardim" 10 page booklet, "A Series of Annotated Selections (Number 1) Izmirli Proverbs and Songs from the Bronx. By Gloria Joyce Ascher, Dept. of German and Russian Tuft Univ. Issued Oct. 1976 by Adelantre, The Judezmo Society, Brooklyn, N.Y.. Booklet is signed by Prof. Ascher to Mr. Albert Arditti. Also includes three pages of Ladino songs for the holidays, La Ketuba de la Ley, Al Dio Alto and Hashem Shamati shimecha. Songs printed by Dr. Rabbi M. Asher Murciano on the stationary of Sephardic Jewish Center of Forrest Hills, NY. Also includes approximately 30 photocopies of pages from "Los Sefardie" by Jose M. Estrugo, published in Seville (1958?), three page letter from David M. Bunis regarding his Ladino class at Columbia University addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Albert Arditti. Two pages of common Ladino song lyrics. Program for "Four Sephardic Ballads" recorded at Sephardic Home for the Aged by: Dr. E. Glass, Queensborough Comm. College and Prof. W. Bratter, Adelphi Univ. Includes 8 pages of common Ladino song lyrics.

Rabbinical certificate (Semiha or letter of recommendation?) presented to Rabbi Isidore Kahan from Rabbi Reuben Israel. Te'udat Rabbanut from Rabbi Reuben E[liyahu] Israel to Rabbi Azrial Yehuda ha-Kohen. The document is written on the official letterhead of the "Gran Rabbinate di Rodi." הרבנות הראשית באי רודיס יע''א - תעודת רבנות - The date on the document is not completed, "193_ and 569_." The document is handwritten in Hebrew in Rashi Script. It is addressed to Haham ha-Olam ve-ha-nehbad k'sh't [Keter shel Torah?] Azrial Yehuda ha-Kohen. החכם העלם והנכבד כש''ת עזריאל יהודה הכהן. The document is signed in Hebrew "Rav Rashi" and in Soletreo Reuben Eliyahu Yisrael, רב ראשי ראובן אליהו ישראל. The letter is stamped with the official stamp in Hebrew and Italian, "Rabbino Maggiore - Rodi (Egeo) Reuben E. Israel." ראובן א' ישראל רב ראשי באי רודיס.

Two different original letters of Rabbi Azrial Yehuda Kahana's Te'udat Rabbanut from Collegio Rabbinco - Italiano - Roma. The letter is signed by Eliahu Amoan Hotes (?) The document is handwritten in Hebrew script on the offical letterhead of the Collegio Rabbinico Italiano and includes their stamp. The address is printed in Italian "Roma, Sede Lungotevere Cenci (Tempio). The date is handrwitten in Hebrew. י''ג כסלו תרצ''ט

Five letters from European Rabbinic Courts. 1. Small letter written in Hebrew cursive. Stamp from the Av Bet Din of Brenoazalad - ברינוזאלד . T2. Handwritten letter in cursive Hebrew on the letterhead of Leib Friedman Rav Bet Din of Pressburg. The name Kahana is written in English at the bottom of the letter. 3. Handwritten letter in Hebrew characters that includes the stamp of Yehuda Grunfeld - Av Bet Din Sihali (?)ד אבד יהודה גרונפעל Mention of Satmir. Dated July 15, 1903. כ בתמוז תרס''ג 5663. 4. Handwritten letter in cursive Hebrew on the letterhead of Akiva Sofer Maharashbam. Av Bet Din Pressburg. עקיבא סופר בה''ג מה''רש''בם - אב''ד הק''ק פרעסבורג. The name Kahana is written in English at the bottom of the letter. 5. Handwritten letter in Hebrew characters that includes the stamp of Yitzhak Weiss - Rabbi of Karlburg. יצחק וייס רב דק''ק קארלבורג. The name Kahana is written in English at the bottom of the letter. The letter begins with the verse (Deut. 33:7) Ve-zot le-Yehuda ׀זֹאת לִיהוּדָה

Rabbi Isidore Kahan's letter to Rabbi Dr. Leo Jung. - New York City.

Comunita Israelitica Di Roma - Il Presidente. Certifica: che il Rabb. Dr. Isidore Kahan del 1 Ottobre 1932, ricopre presso la Communita Israelitica di Roma uffici di Rabbino insegnante e di Rabbino Celebrante, con pens soddisfazione dei fedeli e degli Amministratori. Letter is typed on the official letterhead and includes the stamp of the Comunita Israelitica Di Roma.

Two page letter to Isidore Kahan from Samuel Baruch on behalf of the Bikur Holim Ahavath Ahim Congregation. Printed on the letterhead of Bikur Holim Ahavath Ahim Congregation, Corner 20th Avenue and East Fir Street. Seattle, Washington. March 29, 1939. Addressed to Dr. Isidore Kahan, 150 West 95th Street, New York City, New York. Baruch writes that "our city it excited for your arrival in Seattle at Ezra Bessaroth". Also includes regards to Dr. De Sola Poole, "who, after all, is directly responsible for the privilege and honor that our Community is about to experience in having you to look upon for their very much needed spiritual guidance."

One page typed letter from the board of the Jewish Community of Rome dated Jan. 31, 1935. This letter appears to be a contract for Rabbi Kahan to serve as the temporary Cheif Rabbi of Rome.

Typed letter from the board of the Jewish Community of Rome dated Dec. 10, 1935. Signed by the President of the community Giuseppe Recanati.

File includes a photocopy of the original document and and English translation. This letter does not contain a date but appears to have been from 1935 and signed by the community president Giuseppe Recanti. It states that the Jewish Community of Rome is pleased with the role Rabbi Kahan has played in the absence of the Chief Rabbi, since his death, and asked the he continue in this role.

File includes a photocopy of the original document and and English translation. Typed letter from the board of the Jewish Community of Rome dated 2/2/1939. This letter states that Rabbi Kahan (b. Aug. 24, 1887) has fulfilled his duties as rabbi and hazzan in Rome, and was part of a Rabbincal Advisory Board when the Chief Rabbinate was vacant in Feb. 1935.

One page certificate dated June 30, 1938 and signed by the President of the Board of Directors of the Rabbinical College Boarding School in Rhodes, Vitalis-Strumza. It states that Rabbi Kahan was the director of this Rabbinical College from March 1926 to approximately June 1932, and that he served with full satisfaction during these 4 years.

One page letter of Military Conscription for the Province of Rome, conscription for those born prior to 1917.

One page letter from the Governatorato di Roma IV - Delegazione "il scottoscritto Governatore di Roma - Certifiica che Kahan, Isidoro di Farkas and Jetti Eisenberger nato a Tissabersel (Ungheria) il 24.8.1887, di razza ebraica, acqyisto la cittadinanza italiana per effetto di concessione fatta con R. Decreto 22.7.1937. Si rilascia salvo gli effetti del R.D. Legge 17.11.1938, XVII n.1728. Il Governatore - Giovanni Camppsecchi." Includes a 50 cent Italian postage stamp.

Doctorate degree awarded to Isidoro Kahan from Dr. Rudolf Fueter at the University of Zurich. Dissertation titled: "Das Delikt der Hehlerei und Seine Behandlung im Zukunftigen Schweizerischen Strafrecht." "The offense of receiving stolen property and its treatment in the Swiss Criminal Future." Karl Rudolf Fueter (30 June 1880, Basel – 9 August 1950, Brunnen) was a Swiss mathematician, known for his work on number theory. During WWII he was a colonel of artillery in the Swiss army, an outspoken opponent of German National Socialism, and an advocate for freedom of the press.

One page letter from the Governatorato di Roma IV - Delegazione "il scottoscritto Governatore di Roma - Certifiica che Buchbinder Toni di Pinkas e di Amalia Heldenmuth nata a Francoforte sul Meno il 15.6.1905, di razza ebrica, acqyisto la cittadinanza italiana per effetto di concessione fatta con R. Decreto 22.7.1937. Si rilascia salvo gli effetti del R.D. Legge 17.11.1938, XVII n.1728. Il Governatore - Giovanni Camppsecchi." Includes a 50 cent Italian postage stamp.

Identical certificate to item ST001148. This is a different copy, see the slight difference in the placement of the mail stamp.

One page certificate [I.D] dated Feb. 3, 1939 for Toni Buchbinder [Kahan] daughter of Pinkas and Amalia Heldenmuth, from Frankfurt, Germany. Born June 17, 1905.

A 1970 copy of Toni Rosi Buchbinder's birth certificate. Born June, 17 1905 in Frankfurt am Main. Born in Hamburg, the daughter of Pinkas and Amalie Buchbinder.

Two tickets from Napoli to New York. One made out to Sig. Isidor Kahan, other made out to Sig.ra Antonietta Kahan, Bambina Nolseni lette Kahan ag.5, Bambina Iudith Kahan ag.9. Issued March 9th, 1939. The family was set to sail on March 16, 1939 aboard SS Rex.

Article on the arrival of the Kahan family from The Jewish Transcript : "Sephardics will honor new rabbi with banquet." Seattle. May 19, 1939.

Article on the arrival of the Kahan family from The Jewish Transcript : "New Rabbi For Sephardic Jews" Seattle. Feb. 17, 1939.

Contains an article about Kahan and family's arrival in Seattle, "In Land of Free, Leave Italy Behind".

Small article on the reception of Rabbi Kahan in Seattle.

Large cream colored Jewish marriage contract. Small print at the bottom of the kettubah in Hebrew script and languages states that it was printed by Hachacham Ezra Reuben Dangor (S.T.) in Bagdad. The traditional Aramaic text is printed in Hebrew script and the testimonial/witness information is handwritten in a (Hebrew/Rashi/Judeo-Arabic) script. Printed at the top in Hebrew script "Kol sasson ve-kol simha, kol hatan ve-kol kalla." An image of two hands embracing above the words (English) "Unity is Strength" at the top center of the kettubah. The names written on the kettubah appear to that of Yaqub Eliahu Muradad and Dinah Yusuf Hisqail Rashti.

A. Afsa/Amulet עפצה, contains an unknown parchment sewn inside of a piece of black fabric, square shaped (2 inches) Long (5 inch) black thread hangs from the cloth. B. Silver hamsa (1 ½ inches) engraved with the tetragrammaton (above) Samarchad צרמכד (middle) and "Kel Shakai" (below) attached with a safety pin to an oval shaped piece of silver (1 inch) that also contains the angelic name צרמכד / sarmachad engraved in the center. C. Afsa/ amulet (1 ½ inches). Triangle shaped. Thin clear/grey cloth cover sewn together with brown thread. Afsa is thick and densely packed. Unknown contents inside of this afsa. D. Afsa/ amulet. Soft, white striped cloth cover sewn together with white thread. Afsa is thin and loosely packed (1 ½ inches). Triangle shaped. Unknown contents inside of this afsa. E. Four Talisman stones / "ojos". Polished turquoise stones used for protection against the "evil eye." Two medium sized (½ inch) stones and two small (¼ inch) stones.

Two clippings and a passenger list. 1. Photocopy of an article on Albert Ovadia from the Seattle Times. Article about Ovadia winning the Seattle Times Humanity Award. 2. Original newspaper clipping featuring a color photograph of Albert Ovadia, Times Humanity Award winner, in the Caroline Kline Galland Home for the Aged greenhouse. 3. A photocopy of Albert Ovadia's June 1, 1905 immigration document. "List or manifest of alien passengers for the U.S. Immigration Officer at port of arrival. Other passengers include Isaac Calvo, Solomon Funes, Marco Funes. Seven passengers' destination appear to be in Seattle Washington. Four passengers listed the home of Solomon Calvo, 119 Washington Street, Seattle, WA. Three passenger including Isaac Ovadia listed (either Leon or Policar) 910 Washington St. Seattle WA. Date May to June 1905. S.S. Germania from Naples to New York. Passengers to Seattle all appear to be from Marmara.

Letters on very thing paper sent from Rev. Morris and Esther Scharhon to her parents Azaria (his nephew) and Rachel Scharhon. A. The first letter is dated Jan. 29, 1948. Written in Soletreo a single of paper that feature the letterhead of Moreno Benbassa - Fabrica de Tejido in Buenos Aires. B. The second letter is dated March 2, 1948. Written in Soletreo a single of paper that feature the letterhead of Moreno Benbassa. C. The third letter is on the same stationery paper, written in English, dated 4.18.1948 (2 pages). D. The fourth letter is on Rev. Morris L. Scharhon's personal stationery paper, from Buenos Aires, dated Nov. 26, 1947 and written in Soletreo, signed in English (1 page with writting on the back). E. The 5th letter is also on Rev. Scharhon's personal stationery from Buenos Aires, dated Dec. 7, 1947, written in Soletreo (2 pages). F. The sixth letter is on Rev. Scharhon's stationery, Buenos Aires, Dec. 17, 1947 and written in Soletreo (2 pages). G. The seventh letter is from Azaria Scharhon addressed "Dear Grandmother" (Querida Abuelita) written in Ladino in Latin script, Oct. 4, 1950. H. The eighth letter is written in Ladino in Latin script to Ray and Azaria from Fortuna (?) and Moise in Buenos Aires, date unclear. I. The ninth letter is from Buenos Aires dated Jan 5, 1948 to Azaria, Rashel and Ester in Ladino in Latin script (2 pages). J. The tenth letter is dated Feb. 15, 1948. Written in Ladino in Latin letters on paper that feature the letterhead of Moreno Benbassa. K. The 11th letter is dated Feb. 15, 1948. Written in Soletreo on paper that feature the letterhead of Moreno Benbassa. This letter is from Rev. Scharhon and Jack Habif, 395 Broadway, New York.

Soletreo letter in blue written in blue ink. Includes the date 1932 underlined at the top of the page. A large letter A is written in red ink at the top of the page. The date appears to possibly be the 8th of Tamuz. Also includes a typed description.

Handwritten letters written in Latin script by Al Shemarya's mother, Rachel Shemarya, to her daughter Sylvia Moskovitz, her husband Eddy and her other daughters Stella, who must have been visiting in Williamson, West Virginia. Approximately 45 pages, one envelope and approximately 23 handwritten Ladino letters. Approximately 7 letters are written on Airmail stationery from the 1948 to 1955.

One double sided letter written in Soletreo script. File includes the envelope postmarked from Rodi [Rhodes] 4/12/1922. The letter was sent from Monsieur Abraam Capelouto addressed to Madam Rachel di Jack Shemarya, Portland, Oregon.

The postcard includes notation indicating the family house in Rhodes and 1985 photograph of the same house. The postcard includes Ladino handwriting in Latin script. The postcard is dated 28/2/1966. Sent from Victor Capelouto c/o Soriano M. Rhodes, Greece and addressed to Mrs. Rachel Shemarja of Seattle. Also includes an explanation note.

Eleven double sided pages of handwritten letters in Soletreo script. The letters were sent from Abraham Capelouto in Rhodes to Rachel Shemarya in Seattle. Includes the envelope with additional Soletreo inscriptions on the back. Italian postage stamp on the envelope. Addressed to "Madam Rachel G. Shemarya, No. 114, 24th South, Seattle Washington, American." Printed on verso "Abraham Capeluto, Rhodes, Italie." The envelope is dated 10/24/1936. Translation, summary, and transliteration provided by Izo Abram.

Interviews by Felice Moskowitz with grandmother Rachel Shemarya, and her parents Sylvia Moskowitz and Edward Moskowitz, for her [college?] paper "Jewish Traditions, Beliefs & Interpretations Of Law," May 12, 1971. Contains a transcript of the conversation (mostly in English with some Ladino words), and a copy of Moskowitz's final paper, which itself is mostly transcripts of the interviews.

One double-sided page titled "Boureka di Patata." Text is in Ladino in Latin script.

One small page with a recipe handwritten in Soletreo on both sides of the paper.

Isaac Youchah and Lena Alcaser family tree, two page photocopy. Isaac Youchah of Monastir, Turkey was a grain merchant. Isaac had six sisters. Isaac and Lena had 8 children, five of them immigrated to the U.S. Haim, Saul, Louis, Beatria (?). Jack, Rachel, Sophia, Arnesta. The family moved to Manhattan, NY. The family tree follows Jack Youchah (1888 to Oct. 20 1955) who married Jennie Couo (1899, Salonika). It appears that Jennie Couo was the daughter of Samuel Couo who ran a newspaper in Salonika. Samuel married Ester Levy (1873-1940, Salonika) the daughter and of Haim Levy ben Cadie Levy.

Turkish-Arabic script.

Jacob Youchah's passport from the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovens, N.Y. Text and and signatures on front and back of the document. Stamped Feb. 28.1919. and April 21, 1919. Includes a photograph of Jacob Youchah (age 33). Passport template from the reign of Pierre I.

Jacob Youchah's identity card from the Royal Consulate General of Greece in New York. Includes another (illegible) name. Dated July 29, 1922. Document is torn in half. Includes a two torn fragments of a similar document that also appears to be from the Royal Consulate General of Greece.

Lena Youchah's passport from the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovens, N.Y. Text and and signatures on front and back of the document. Stamped May 10, 1919. Include a photograph of Lena Youchah (age 72). Passport template from the reign of Alexandre.

Gentile [Jenie] Covo Greek identity document. Document is torn into three to five pieces and in fragile condition. Includes a photograph of Gentile Covo. Printed on the document "Au Nom du Gouvernement du Royaume De Grece [Greece]... American Consulate Saloniki, Greece, June 26, 1917." Handwritten on the document "Juin 1917, Salonique."

Jennie Youchah's Affidavit of Identity and Nationality document to be used in lieu of Passport. Jennie is listed as a housewife from 1263 Grant Avenue Bronx, NY. Born in Salonica, on March 7th 1899. She lost her nationality when her husband became a U.S. citizen on July 17th 1930. Jennie desired to travel to Salonica to visit her sick father by sailing on the S.S. Conte Di Savoia leaving New York on July 3rd 1937. Stamps and other information in Greek on the back side of the documents.

Document is torn and in fragile condition. "Declaration of alien about to depart for the United States. Jacob Isaac Youchah, occupation : packer, subject of Serbia (took Serbian passport in New York to find my mother in Monastir now Serbia who was reported to be (me) lost) Declaration of Intention No. 18903." Dated January, 31, 1919. Wife Jennie, Saloniki then Turkey not known, living at 146 ? Fifth Avenue, New York. "I was born at Monastir Turkey (now Serbia) on October 21, 1885, my father was subject of Turkey, of the Jewish race, my mother was born a subject of Turkey, of the Jewish race, [identical information for paternal grandfather and maternal grandfather.]

Kettubah in fragile condition. Minister: Jacob Nehama. The printed Hebrew text follows the Ashkenazi formulary of a ketubbah, obviously taken from a standard American type (see below). The Sephardi scribe, however, inserted common Sephardi idioms wherever it was possible.

Two photocopies of Honorary Degree from the Rite Mason : Oriental de Misraim (ou d' Egypte). S.G.C.G. pour la France... Le Representant legitm et delegue special de l'Ordre pour les Etats Uni d'Emerique. To the Br. M. Kessler - City - New York, December 24th 1890.

Raphael Camhi letter to Jacob Isaac Youchah dated October 25th 1909 from Monastir. The letter is in French and Raphael Camhi's signature is in Soletreo script. The letter is torn and in fragile condition. The letter is written on Raphael Camhi's personal stationery.

A letter to Jack Youchach from the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovens in New York, N.Y.

Jacob Youchah's letter to the American Consular regarding a U.S. visa for Samuel Covo. A half page Ladino inscription handwritten on the back of this letter. The American Consul John F. Simons responded that he acknowledges Jacob desire to obtain a visa for Samuel Covo [his brother-in-law]. This appears to be a mistake since Samuel Covo is his father-in-law. Raphael Covo is his brother-in-law.

Two page document informing Jack Youchah that the American Red Cross could not locate American Raphael Covo.

Youchah family letter typed and handwritten in Greek. Date at the top margin: 1915. The document is torn and very fragile.

Three photographs including one with a Ladino inscription on the back of the photograph. Photo A. features [Raphael Covo] a middle aged man wearing a hat and a neck tie standing behind his parents who are sitting on chairs. Mr. Covo [Papa Samuel Covo] has a beard and a black hat. Mrs. Covo [Nana] appears to have her hair parted on the side and her hands folded in her lap. Inscribed on the back of the photo "Souvernes de el anio 1934 - 5695 de Nana, Papa y Rafel I cop de anio fou ermano. - R.S. Covo (Couo)."

One double-sided handwritten letter in Ladino in Latin characters. Photocopy. The letter is addressed to; "Kerido Ermano Nissim i kerida Rebeca" and signed by Yom Tov, writing from Istanbul.

Document in the shape of a house, mounted on board. The year 1887 is written in pencil. Writing appears to be in Hebrew.