AN OUTLINE OF THE HISTORY OF THE WORCESTER JEWISH
COMMUNITY
Golden Jubilee 1903-1953
-------------------------------------
In writing this booklet, the compilers have endeavoured to
present as complete and objective a record of events from the data obtained, as
space would allow.
In the mentioning of names of individuals every effort has
been made to observe strict impartiality, by only mentioning the names of
leaders of various organisations, although some of the earlier ones are
recorded mainly for their interest value. The compilers task has, however, been
rendered difficult as a result of the records of certain of the organisations
unfortunately being incomplete, and if any deserving names or organisations
have inadvertently been omitted, this has been done in all innocence.
---------------------------------
AN OUTLINE OF THE HISTORY OF THE WORCESTER JEWISH
COMMUNITY ON THE OCCASION OF THE GOLDEN JUBILEE OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE
WORCESTER HEBREW CONGREGATION
Written by HERBERT ABRAMOWITZ (Hon. Secretary, Worcester
Hebrew Congregation)
from material compiled by a Sub-Committee consisting of
Dr. I. KOSSEW (Convener)
I. J. SENNETT, Esq.
J. RABINOWITZ, Esq.
M. RABINOWITZ, Esq.
JACK BROWN, Esq.
Dr. J. LANGE
E. I. BROWN, Esq.
HERBERT ABRAMOWITZ, Esq.
With acknowledgments to S. A. Rochlin, Esq., Archivist of
the S.A. Jewish Sociological & Historical Society, for some of the very
early information.
-----------------------------
EXECUTIVE AND COMMITTEE of the WORCESTER HEBREW CONGREGATION
1952-1953
I. J. SENNETT, Esq., Hon. Chairman and Hon. Life President
N. KARPAS, Esq., Hon. Vice-Chairman.
J. RABINOWITZ, Esq., Hon. Treasurer and Hon. Life President.
H. ABRAMOWITZ, Hon. Secretary.
E. I. BROWN, Esq.
W. ELKIN, Esq.
SIMON HELLER, Esq.
SOLOMON HELLER, Esq.
Dr. J. LANGE.
L. LANGE, Esq.
I. KESSEL, Esq.
Dr. I. KOSSEW.
J. LEADER, Esq.
B. E. LIPMAN, Esq., Hon. Life Vice-President.
M. RABINOWITZ, Esq.
L. RABINOWITZ, Esq.
Dr. I. SAGOR.
M. SPIRO, Esq.
E. TRAUB, Esq., Representative on the Cape Jewish Board of
Deputies.
A. G. WILK, Esq.
Mrs. S. BROWN, Representing Union of Jewish Women. Mrs. H.
SANDLER, Representing Union of Jewish Women.
J. BROWN, Esq. Representative of the Cape Jewish Orphanage.
D. LEVIN, Esq. Representative of the Cape Jewish Old Aged
Home.
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FOREWORD
It is related of the late Cecil Rhodes that when he heard of
the existence of Jewish Settlers in his Colony, he remarked: "The success
of my undertaking is now assured."
The story of the rise, growth and development of the
Worcester Hebrew Congregation ab origine, as unfolded in this booklet,
is typical of the growth and development of the entire S.A. Jewish Community.
In each case this development has synchronised with the phenomenal economic
expansion of the Community as a whole. The part played by Worcester Jewry in
particular in this respect and its beneficial influence on inter-community
relationship, is outlined in the following pages and constitutes a most
gratifying feature in our communal life.
The whole story is one of grim struggle and resolute
endeavour and affords enthralling reading as well as just cause for pride and
satisfaction. Bearing in mind the economic hardships of the early settlers, the
difficulties of communications and limited resources, one looks back on their
primordial achievements with something akin to veneration. The inevitable
squabbles and dissensions, an integral and inseparable feature of all forms of
communal life, disappear completely in the ultimate satisfactory outcome. They
have resulted in a solid, firmly united and well organised community, able to
boast of social amenities, cultural activities and educational facilities
obtaining usually in only the few very large Jewish centres.
As in nearly all Jewish centres in this country, cultural
activities revolve in the main around Zionism and Zionist ideals. Zionism here
is not of the cheque book, stop order brand, nor are its activities confined to
fund raising and appeals. A live, healthy interest is displayed in the cultural
and idealistic aspects of the movement. As will be seen from the formidable
list of leading Zionist personalities who have been here, Worcester was always
the happy hunting ground of Zionist workers, as well as a popular venue for
Zionist gatherings and Youth rallies, its hospitality being proverbial. All
this finds expression in the bustling activities of the various bodies
enumerated herein.
The part played by Worcester youth in the War of Liberation
in Israel and in the upbuilding of the Land is a particular source of pride and
affords ample testimony to the prevailing spirit and sound Hebrew and Zionist
educational system. Gratifying, too, is the response of its members to the
cause of world freedom. Schemes are not lacking for the further development of
its cultural life. Foremost amongst these is the project for the establishment
of a Jewish kindergarten. It is hoped that time will see this vital facet of
Jewish communal life come into being.
Members of the Community are in the main, public spirited,
interested in all spheres of communal development, particularly in that of
Hebrew education where neither expense nor effort is spared.
The distinction Worcester now enjoys as one of the leading
towns in the Platteland has created a unique situation for Worcester Jewry.
Unlike so many country communities whose numbers are dwindling, Worcester's
Jewish population is increasing. This has thrown an additional responsibility
on the existing Community, but, true to tradition, Worcester will meet it.
Having now reached this proud landmark in its history, the
Worcester Hebrew Congregation looks back on the past with pride and to the
future with confidence. May the Almighty grant this confidence be vindicated.
M. L. SMITH, Rabbi.
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AN OUTLINE OF THE HISTORY OF THE WORCESTER JEWISH COMMUNITY
THE ERA BEFORE THE BOER WAR
IN TRACING THE HISTORY of the Jewish Community of Worcester,
it is appropriate to dwell for a moment on Worcester itself, to the prosperity
of which, its Jews have contributed in no small manner.
Having regard to the great distance between the two
magisterial districts of Tulbagh and Graaff-Reinet, the Governor of the Cape
Colony, Lord Charles Somerset, considered it of the utmost importance in 1818
to establish another landdrost seat between these two towns. The fertile valley
nestling under the shadow of the Brandwacht mountains and flanked by the Breede
River and the Hex River range was chosen. Thus the future town of Worcester was
accordingly laid out by the first landdrost, Captain Trappes, and in 1820 the
first erven were sold. Two years later the Drostdy, which still graces our
town, was built.
THE FIRST ARRIVAL
The first Jew on record to have settled permanently in
Worcester arrived here in 1848. He was Dr. Diederich Heinrich Frankel, M.D.,
who practised here as district surgeon until his death in 1861. Dr. Frankel's
father. Dr. Siegfried Frankel, was the first conforming Jew to make the Cape
his permanent home and he had the unique distinction of conducting the Neilah
Service at the first Yom Kippur Minyan (Day of Atonement Service) held in South
Africa in 1841. He also actively participated in establishing the South African
College, later to become the University of Cape Town, and his sons were amongst
its first students. Diederich and his brother, with four friends, formed the
first Students' Representative Council.
Dr. A. Kopelowitz, who was already living in Worcester in
1882, was Worcester's first Jewish dentist. From advertisements Kopelowitz
inserted in the local Press, making himself known as a dentist and surgeon with
consulting rooms at the Masonic Hotel, his methods of painlessly extracting
teeth appear to be strikingly modern.
In the hotel world Jews were represented in one Richard
Rothkugel, who ran the Darling Bridge Hotel at the foot of Bain's Kloof in the
early 1860's.
Apart from itinerant hawkers or "tochers" as they
were known, and who resided here temporarily, we know of two brothers Myers
who, after living here for some time, left Worcester to return to England round
about 1882.
Worcester also had a curio dealer, a certain I. Bernstein,
who displayed his wares near to the Masonic Hotel. Other names which appeared
in the pre-Boer War era were A. Landau, A. Lipman, the father of Mr. B. E.
Lipman presently residing in Worcester, and who later owned the Commercial
Hotel, and Moritz Hammerschlag who was the most prominent Worcester Jewish
business man of his day. In 1893 he founded the firm of Hammerschlag and
Company, produce and colonial liquor merchants, in partnership with M. Schonland.
This later became the South African Produce, Wine and Brandy Company.
Hammerschlag's funeral in 1907 was attended by nearly all the leading local
residents, including the then resident magistrate.
GOLD MINING
A most interesting enterprise worthy of mention was the
Worcester Exploration and Gold Mining Company. At a meeting of shareholders
held in the local Town Hall in 1898, one of the directors, Maurice Eilenberg, a
prominent Cape Town Jew, maintained that "the Worcester mine, small as it
was, had been regarded as a small gem of South Africa." Another Jew, J.
Sichel, later also figured on the Board of Directors.
In the social sphere of half a century ago and more, certain
Jews played a prominent part. The two daughters of Moritz Hammerschlag, one of
whom was a piano teacher, were members of the Worcester Glee Party and one took
a principal part in a public performance of Charles Dickens’
"Pickwick."
Jewish artistes of international fame who visited Worcester
included David Miranda, a Drury Lane tenor who performed here in 1869, and
Madame Albu, who charmed her audience with her singing in 1897. The Worcester
Standard of the period is most lavish in its praise of her performance. Ellie
Marx, a very well known South African born violinist, also performed here at
the turn of the century.
Even in the sporting world of Worcester of fifty years ago
did the Jews contribute their share. For example, Miss T. Hammerschlag was the
winner of a Tennis Tournament in June, 1900. Then there was the interesting
case of Morris V. Levy, Honorary Secretary of the Worcester Sporting and
Gymkhana Club, who arranged a most successful meeting of the club on Church
Square on New Year's Day, 1901. In a long article in praise of Levy, the
Worcester Standard remarked: "He slaved- that is the word for it and, if
he is still wise, he will not do so again."
ARRIVAL OF FIRST
CHAIRMAN
In the early 1880's, Mr. M. Jacobson, later to become the
Worcester Hebrew Congregation's first chairman, arrived and was followed by his
wife a little later. Shortly afterwards the Listeys arrived, and Mr. A. Brown,
Mrs. Jacobson's brother, arrived during the first part of the 1890's. It is
interesting to recall that Mrs. Jacobson, being intensely religious, prevailed
on her husband to engage the services of a shochet (ritual slaughterer). There
were only two permanent families here at the time as distinct from bachelors
and temporary residents, and in consulting the other half of the congregation
about the employment of a shochet, Mr. Jacobson said that he personally would
pay £5 to bring a shochet here. The other, however, exclaimed that he
personally would pay £5 to keep a shochet out!
The Jacobsons' house was the social and religious centre of
the Worcester Jews of those days. They had set aside a special room in their
house for religious services to which a Sefer Torah (Scroll of the Law) was
added some years later. As many as 40 "tochers" attended one Yom
Kippur Service at the Jacobsons house. Eventually the services of a shochet,
believed to have been a Mr. Raises, were obtained during the Boer War, and a
small congregation was started in the I.O.G.T. Hall in Porter Street. Mr.
Raises salary was the magnificent sum of £5 per month.
During the Boer War several local Jews served in the Town
Guard, a photograph of whom is still preserved in the Synagogue.
For a short while in 1901, the British Commandant at
Worcester was a Jew, Colonel Albert Edward. Goldsmit, who had recently arrived
in South Africa as Chief Staff-Officer to General Kelly-Kenny. Believed to have
been depicted as a principal character in George Eliot's famous novel, Daniel
Deronda, he was, however, better known as an enthusiastic Zionist, and was
before he died in London in March, 1904, chief of the Choveve Zion (Lovers of
Zion) Society of Great Britain. During his sojourn in Worcester he presided
over two meetings held in January, 1901, in the Court Room, convened for the
purpose of forming a local Town Guard.
SPIRIT OF AMITY
The amicable relationship which exists in Worcester between
Jew and non-Jew dates back to the early years. This was particularly seen in
the attitude of the local non-Jews to alleviating the distress of Jews
persecuted in the notorious Russian pogroms of 1881. For example, the Worcester
Weekly News of July 14th, 1881, made this appeal:
"We beg to draw the attention of the inhabitants of
our town and neighbouring divisions to the fact that there is another
opportunity to do an act of humanity. A fund has been raised with the purpose
of supporting the unfortunate distressed Jews in Russia; all gifts for the
above-mentioned purpose will be thankfully received by the Rev. J. A.
Hewett."
Also in respect of the fund cited above, the Cape Times of
March 22nd, 1882, published this report:
"Yesterday the Rev. Joel Rabinowitz returned from a
visit to Worcester and Wellington. At Worcester the Reverends W. Murray, J. A.
Hewett and L. F. Esselen have promised to make collections in their respective
churches in furtherance of a good cause, and with them are associated, as a
kind of committee for otherwise raising funds, the Hon. T. Heatlie, and Messrs.
Jacobus Meiring, Sharpe, Hall, Perkins and other gentlemen."
Issues of the Worcester Standard of 1896 and 1899
displayed a very sympathetic attitude towards Zionism and the Dreyfus trial
which aroused world-wide interest at the time.
FIRST WEDDING
During the Boer War the first Jewish wedding in Worcester
took place, that of two cousins named Kirkel. As is still the case to-day, the
wedding ceremony was attended by every Jew in Worcester, which included the
Jewish members of the Town Guard as well as Jewish soldiers stationed here. The
Rev. Lyons of Cape Town officiated, the chupah (canopy) having been brought
from there as well. There were no poles and the canopy was held aloft by four
young men.
During the outbreak of a smallpox epidemic,
"tochers" who arrived in the village were not allowed to leave. Mrs.
Jacobson took a leading part in looking after the welfare of the visitors and
it is recorded that she collected sixpences from them daily to buy the
necessary food for their meals.
THE BIRTH OF THE WORCESTER HEBREW CONGREGATION AND ITS
ACTIVITIES DURING LATER YEARS.
By 1903 the Jewish Community had grown to a sizeable extent,
as is evidenced by some thirty Jewish names listed in the "Worcester Year
Book and Directory" of 1904. Neither the room attached to the Jacobsons'
house nor the I.O.G.T. Hall was able to accommodate the Jewish Community during
High Festivals any longer, and serious thought was accordingly given to the
establishment of a congregation on a proper basis, and to the building of a
Synagogue. The first Jewish Congregation was accordingly established in 1903
with Mr. M. Jacobson as Chairman, Mr. I. Nowitz, Vice-Chairman, Mr. D. Paletz,
Secretary, and a committee consisting of Messrs. M. Lange, M. Cohen and A.
Brown.
Mr. Brown was instrumental in securing a piece of ground
from the Municipality for a cemetery in 1902. At the same time a Burial Society
was established under the chairmanship of Mr. S. Spiro, Later Chairmen of the
Burial Society were Messrs. J. Spiro, I. Nowitz, J. Leader, Snr., and the
present Chairman, Mr. J. Rabinowitz. To show the state of the finances of the
new Congregation, no funds were available with which to provide a fence for the
cemetery and they had accordingly to plant a hedge instead..
Ground on which to build a Synagogue was purchased in Lower
Russel Street during the existing wave of enthusiasm, without taking into
account the fact that a much better building and site was being offered for
sale at the same time as well. The Congregation therefore decided also to buy
this new site, on which the existing Synagogue now stands, for £712. The
finances of the young Congregation could not stand this double burden, however;
but fortunately they found a contractor to take the first purchase off their
hands as part payment for the building of the new Shul. The existing building
was altered to meet the requirements of the Congregation and a gallery was
added, the work being completed in 1904.
Unfortunately, Mr. Jacobson did not live to see his life's
ambition realised, as he died just before the Synagogue was consecrated, Rev.
Klein, of Robertson, officiating at his funeral. It was a sad stroke of fate
that the man who was responsible more than anyone else for the establishment of
the first Jewish Congregation in Worcester should also have been almost the
first person to be buried in the new cemetery.
Shortly before Mr. Jacobson's death, a little Jewish girl,
the daughter of Mr. M. Cohen, had been buried here, and she was accordingly the
first Jewish person to be buried in the official Jewish cemetery. Soon after
Mr. Jacobson's death a fence was erected round the cemetery at the instigation
of his widow.
THE CARPENTER FROM
SHAVEL
In the building of the new Shul no architect was consulted
and as far as the construction of the ark and bimah was concerned, it was felt
that only a Jew would know how to do it. Fortunately a Jewish carpenter was
found who had just arrived from Shavel in Russia, and he agreed to construct
the ark and bimah. This carpenter, Mr. Bial, had other talents as well, and he
was accordingly engaged not only to do the structural alterations, but also to
daven (lead the prayers) during the High Festivals, the remuneration being a
lump sum for both services rendered. Contrary to what might perhaps be
expected, the arrangement turned out to be highly successful. Similarly, the
painting and decoration of the Shul was also done by a Jew.
OPENING OF
SYNAGOGUE
The Synagogue was accordingly opened in 1904 by Mr. Hyman
Liberman, the Mayor of Cape Town and Chairman of the Cape Town Hebrew
Congregation, the consecration of the Synagogue being conducted by the Reverend
Mr. Alfred Philipp Bender, Minister to the Cape Town Hebrew Congregation.
It is interesting to record for the sake of comparison that
Rev. Bender laid the foundation stone of the Paarl Synagogue in 1904, and in
1903 he officially opened the Synagogue at Laingsburg. Rev. Bender also
consecrated the burial ground at Robertson in 1896.
The original subscription fees of the newly-formed
congregation which, in Hebrew, was called Knesseth Israel, were 5/- per month
from married men and 3/- per month from unmarried men. A non-member requiring
kosher meat had to pay extra. A strange feature of the membership arrangements
was that, although the male members had permanent seats in the Synagogue, all
the ladies' seats were auctioned every year.
The Jewish Community of those days was, needless to say, a
struggling one in more ways than one. Martial Law, which was imposed for the
duration of the Boer War, severely hit many of Worcester's small traders
economically, as the licences of all hawkers were suspended and they were
forbidden to move about and ply their trade. An influx of refugees from the
Transvaal did not ease matters either. The later arrivals were striving to
bring their near and dear ones from overseas, and the aftermath of the war
brought a business slump as bad as any in South African history. Therefore,
their efforts in establishing a Congregation and a Synagogue required more
energy and self-denial than can be realised to-day, and in retrospect those
pioneers cannot be honoured enough. Like all pioneers they had to contend with
disruptive elements in their midst and, as a result of an argument, a dissatisfied
faction broke away from the Congregation in 1905 or 1906 and held their own
Synagogue services. Fortunately this breach, which is the only recorded in the
history of this Congregation, was soon healed and the stray sheep returned to
the fold.
The visit of a speaker or organiser was something spoken of
for days. The late Advocate Morris Alexander was very fond of coming to
Worcester to lecture. Rumour has it that the Alexander family resided in the
Worcester district round about 1890.
FIRST ZIONIST
SOCIETY
The first Zionist Society was formed in 1904, three of the
leaders and founders being Messrs. M. Cohen, M. Windush and J. L. Kavonik. More
information will be given later.
The first resident Minister to the Worcester Hebrew
Congregation was a Mr. Wolpert, who also conducted the Hebrew school which was
situated behind the Synagogue. This Cheder (Hebrew School) was enlarged and
rebuilt in 1916 under the chairmanship of Mr. S. Spiro, the sum involved being
£150.
A Masonic "Grand Order of Israel" existed from
1905 to 1910. The first Masters were Messrs. J. L. Kavonik and M. Windush, with
Mr. M. Cohen as Secretary. A photograph of the members of this Lodge hangs in
one of the ante rooms of the Synagogue.
Although this was the only attempt at forming a Jewish
Lodge, Worcester Jews have always played a leading part in the Masonic world,
several of them reaching very high office.
As poor as many of the Worcester Jews were at the time, they
did not fail to respond to an appeal made in 1906 by the Reverend A. P. Bender
for the relief of Russian Jewry, every member volunteering to pay 2/6 weekly.
In 1917 during the First World War a Polish Ukrainian Fund was opened under the
chairmanship of Mr. S. Spiro. The finances of the congregants apparently having
improved in the interim, members volunteered to pay from 5 to 10/- weekly
towards the Fund. An auspicious event, held in 1913, was a special synagogue
service conducted by Rev. A. P. Bender for the benefit of Jewish soldiers
stationed at a Defence Force camp here. Many Jewish soldiers under Captain
Blumberg attended.
THE NEW SHUL
With the passing of the years the Worcester Hebrew
Congregation continued to grow, until it was found that the congregants had
outgrown the Synagogue. In 1926 a new Shul was accordingly built on the site of
the old one at a cost of about £4,800. At the same time a Communal Hall was
constructed at a cost of about £1,200. In order to pay off the large sum of
£6,000, about £1,200 had been saved by the congregation in anticipation of the
event and £800 was contributed by members. About £1,500 was collected from
Gentile farmers and tradespeople as well as from Jews and non-Jews in Ceres and
the surrounding villages. The Ladies' Society, which was formed in 1912 under
the Chairmanship of Mrs. E. Windush, was also particularly active in raising
money for this purpose, and by means of socials and dances they contributed
over £400. The bond of £2,500 which remained, was paid off during the period of
office of Mr. S. Lange, the then Chairman.
The executive of the Ladies' Society at the time is,
unfortunately, not known, but it is believed that Mrs. M. Simon or Mrs. Sadman
was Chairman. In 1929 the membership of the Ladies' Society totalled
fifty-five, the subscriptions being one shilling per month. Other activities of
the Ladies' Society at that time included the presentation of a fully equipped
bed to the local hospital and a further donation of £300 towards the furniture
of the Synagogue. It is also recorded that they collected a good deal of money
during the First World War for charitable purposes.
The laying of the foundation stone of the new Shul was
performed by the Rev. A. P. Bender, a large gathering being present including a
number of clerical members of other denominations. The foundation laying ceremony
was followed by a reception in the new Communal Hall, which was attended by the
Mayor, Mr. P. A. Malan. On this auspicious occasion the Congregation executive
consisted of:
Mr. S. Lange, who had already been Chairman since 1917.
Mr. I. J. Sennett, Vice-Chairman.
Mr. Joseph Rabinowitz, Hon. Treasurer.
Mr. H. Simon, Hon. Secretary.
The minister when the Synagogue was rebuilt, was Rabbi E.
Stein, who became the spiritual leader of the Congregation in 1924. The
Synagogue, which even to-day compares very favourably with other synagogues of
similar size, is furnished throughout in teak. Amongst its many treasures, to
mention but a few, are a silver menorah (candelabra) on a teak stand, a silver
pointer, a silver nameplate and crowns, beautiful tablets above the ark
representing two lions of Judah supporting the Ten Commandments. There are also
three magnificent chandeliers, which were switched on by Mrs. M. Lange at a
special ceremony held in 1931. The names of all the donors are suitably
recorded in the entrance hall of the Shul. In one of the Synagogue chambers
hangs a memorial tablet recording the names of all the Jews in Worcester who
have died since 1904. The foundation stone contains a casket in which the names
of the committee members at the time, as well as important events in the
history of the Congregation, are written. Mr. A. Volks succeeded Mr. S. Lange
as Chairman in 1927 and held this position for about six months, after which
Mr. I. J. Sennett assumed office. Mr. Sennett carried out his duties with
distinction for nearly eighteen years during a period which can be described as
possibly the most momentous in Jewish history or indeed in world history.
CULTURAL
ACTIVITIES AND THE EVENTFUL "THIRTIES"
The depression years of the early thirties heralded the
birth of a tyranny of a magnitude the world had never known - Nazism, at whose
bestial hand six million of our brethren eventually succumbed during the World
War of 1939-45. The Congregation on more than one occasion identified itself by
practical means with problems affecting the Jews.
To return to communal matters once more, we find a proposal
being adopted in 1930 that the Worcester Community should become affiliated to
the Cape Town Hebrew Congregation. A year later also it was decided to become
affiliated to the Cape Jewish Board of Education.
TWO IMPORTANT
TOPICS
From this period onwards two topics occupied the attention
of the Congregation for several years, namely, the necessity for engaging an
additional Hebrew teacher and the enlargement of the Communal Hall. As far as
the latter is concerned, various meetings were called for the purpose of
purchasing ground adjoining the Synagogue or Hall, and options were obtained.
It was finally decided, however, in 1933, not to purchase ground but to enlarge
the Hall on the existing site. This decision was not implemented, however,
until 1935, when the Hall was rebuilt from funds largely provided by the
Ladies' Society and private donations.
The discussions concerning the Hebrew teacher were of a far
more animated nature and many a heated discussion is recorded in the minutes.
As all were agreed that an additional teacher was necessary, the main problem
was the method by which the necessary funds to cover the additional expenditure
would be raised, as an increase in the membership subscriptions was not
favoured. An alternative suggestion that part of the expense be defrayed by
reducing Rabbi Stein's salary did not meet with much favour and eventually, at
a special general meeting held on the 15th of October, 1933, the following
resolution was adopted, there being no fewer than five counter proposals:
"That the Congregation employ an assistant teacher
at a salary not exceeding £15 per month, £7 10s. 0d. of which was to he
provided by the congregation and £7 10s. 0d. by a Talmud Torah (Jewish
Education) Society to be established for this purpose."
At a committee meeting held immediately thereafter, the
Chairman intimated that he was not prepared to appoint a teacher unless funds
were definitely available for this purpose. This precipitated a heated argument
lasting several hours when it was finally decided to call another special
general meeting at which the committee would recommend raising the
subscriptions or, alternatively, reducing Rabbi Stein's salary by £7 10s. 0d.
per month. If neither was accepted the committee would take this as a vote of
no confidence and resign en bloc. The committee members would also not
seek re-election.
Such was the character of Rabbi Stein, however, that he
voluntarily offered to accept a £5 per month reduction in his salary and so
avoid a split in the Congregation. The offer was accepted, albeit with much
opposition: but happy to relate, this decision was never implemented.
Eventually a teacher, Mr. L. Goodman, was engaged. The
proposed Talmud Torah was also established, the decision to do so having been
taken at a mass meeting held on the 18th November, 1934.
HEBREW INSTRUCTION
The choice of Mr. Goodman as the additional Hebrew Teacher,
and afterwards as Headmaster, was a happy one and apart from his success as a
teacher, he had a special bent towards play production. Numerous excellent
plays in Hebrew were staged by the cheder children which are still remembered
to-day. Hebrew was introduced as the natural medium of instruction in our
cheder and was also taught as an ordinary school subject by Mr. Goodman. Many
Jewish boys and girls consequently took Hebrew as an additional language
instead of Latin for their Senior or Junior Matriculation examinations.
The years immediately preceding the Second World War are
regarded by many as the golden era in the social and cultural activities of our
Congregation, although, as will be seen, this activity was displayed much
earlier as well. Converzationes were held very frequently, concerts were staged
and Worcester became the mecca for visiting speakers on diverse topics. In
1937, for example, no fewer than ten communal Zionist functions and meetings
were held apart from other cultural activities. Internationally-known Jewish
figures always included Worcester in their itineraries, as this centre was
known to be one of the most active Zionist centres in the Union.
At this stage it is appropriate to dwell for a moment on the
history of the Zionist movement in Worcester. The first Society established in
1904 did not last very long and it was not before 1912 that it was revived at a
communal picnic held at Brandvlei Lake. Mr. M. Hertz who served as Minister
from 1911 to 1921, was elected as Chairman with Mr. Harris Rabinowitz as
Treasurer and Mr. Morris Spiro as Secretary.
A Zionist Youth Group was also organised by Mr. Hertz and
amongst its first Chairmen were Messrs. Ben Lange, H. Windush and Jacob Leader.
YOUTH RALLIES
Both Societies flourished and as far as the Youth is
concerned, many will remember with nostalgia the excitement of many
inter-Society Zionist youth rallies regularly held here during the June school
holidays which Societies from all the neighbouring towns attended. Exciting
football matches are recalled as well as plays and several successful debates
with the Senior Zionist Society. In 1922 the first and possibly the only Jewish
eisteddfod was held at Worcester. Entrants from numerous surrounding areas
competed and the standard was remarkably high. The Habonim (Jewish Scout)
movement was started in the thirties under Mr. Robert Sakinofsky and Miss Reeve
Rabinowitz and had a very enthusiastic following.
Quite a few of our Zionist youth later served on the Western
Province Zionist Youth Executive and many of them are to-day taking an active
part in communal and Zionist affairs here and elsewhere. It is with pride that
we record that three Jewish boys, former members of our Zionist youth, fought
in the Israeli War of Independence. They are Lionel Hodes, Goodman Bloch and
Simeon Wilk. The last two have made Israel their permanent home.
Zionism in Worcester from 1920 to 1938 was dominated by the
personality of Mr. J. J. Wilk, who, although he was Chairman of the Society for
only one year (1926), was, nevertheless, at the forefront of all local Zionist
activities during the above period.
Mr. J. Rabinowitz, together with Messrs. J. J. Wilk, I. J.
Sennett and A. Volks, were honoured by being elected Honorary Life Presidents
of the Zionist Society in recognition of their sterling services rendered over
many years.
DR. & MRS.
CHAIM WEIZMANN
By far the most outstanding event in the Zionist history of
Worcester was the visit of Dr. and Mrs. Chaim Weizmann to the town on the 21st
February, 1932. A fleet of cars met the future President of the State of Israel
and his wife outside the town and escorted them to the Zionist Hall where a
banquet for the whole Community and for visitors from as far afield as
Oudtshoorn was held that evening. A photograph commemorating this auspicious
occasion, which established Worcester as a stronghold of Zionism, is still to
be seen in the Zionist Hall.
Other outstanding visitors included Dr. Nahum Sokolow in
1934, Mr. Baruch Zuckerman in 1936, Rabbi Myer Berlin, Mr. Maurice Samuel and
Mr. Vladimir Jabotinsky in 1937. Worcester was also honoured by being addressed
by Judge and Mrs. Frumkin in 1937, Dr. Soloweitzick in 1938, Colonel Kisch and
Mrs. Warburg in 1939 and Dov Hos and the Hon. Mrs. Edwin Samuels in 1940.
Somewhat later, in 1946, we were visited by Prof. Selig Brodetsky and Dr. James
McDonald. The response to various appeals by the Jews of Worcester was,
proportionately speaking, amongst the highest in the Union.
The Worcester Study Circle, afterwards renamed the Worcester
Cultural Group, which is still active, also saw the light of day round about
1937, due largely to the initiative of its first and present Chairman, Mr.
Michael Rabinowitz. This body's discussions are not confined to Zionist matters
and many an interesting evening has been spent in discussing topics ranging in
diversity from music to hypnotism.
LIBRARY STARTED
Some years earlier, in 1921, a Jewish Literary Society was
formed under the leadership of Mr. J. Rabinowitz. This Society started a Jewish
library which, at one stage, boasted a collection of over 250 books, and was
also responsible for the production of a most successful play in Yiddish,
"Jewish King Lear," by Jacob Gordon. Performances were also staged at
Paarl and Robertson resulting in £150, a considerable sum of money in those
days, being collected on behalf of the "Ukrainian Orphans Fund."
A most commendable feature of all this activity was the
complete absence of personal rivalries and animosities. Personal beliefs and
politics, although often voiced openly, were not allowed to interfere with the
well-being of the Community a feature which still exists to-day. Personal
joys and celebrations were, and are still, shared by the Congregation as a
whole, and likewise personal sorrows, although perhaps not to the same extent
now, due to the growth of the Congregation. It is with considerable
satisfaction, however, that we can record that every member of the Jewish
Congregation still is welcome at a Jewish wedding or Barmitzvah and that
willing helpers on the part of the ladies are not absent.
The outbreak of the Second World War in 1939 brought to an
end this era of great cultural activity, and although the Jews of Worcester
responded magnificently to the various calls made on them for relief of their suffering
brethren and the establishment of a Jewish National Home in Palestine, an epoch
had been completed. In spite of this intense purely Jewish activity, our Jews
have never permitted this to interfere with their responsibilities, as such, in
the non-Jewish spheres in Worcester, and beyond, and in their duty towards
their country, South Africa.
THE WAR YEARS
Worcester Jews were amongst the first to volunteer for
Active Service and 37 out of a total Jewish population of some 350 souls, men,
women and children, served in various branches of the Armed Forces. Three young
Jews, Cpl. J. B. Abramowitz, Gunner Max Lange and Captain S. Levin, made the
supreme sacrifice. Their memories are perpetuated in a magnificent plaque,
unveiled in 1952, which was erected in the entrance hall of the Synagogue. The
names of the other local Jews who went on Active Service are also recorded on
the plaque. Those who returned unscathed were welcomed at a communal gathering
held at the Zionist Hall early in 1946.
Many Worcester Jews served in the National Volunteer
Reserve, and our ladies were particularly active in the Women's Auxiliary
Services and other National War and Welfare Organisations.
To return to Congregation matters, a ban was placed on
elaborate functions shortly after War broke out, but was lifted some time
later. In 1939 two plots of ground opposite the Synagogue were purchased for
the purpose of eventually building two houses for the Congregation's officials
thereon.
A link with the past was broken in 1943 when it was decided
to dismantle the Mikvah (Ritual Bath) with a view to turning it into a Succah
(Tabernacle). In earlier years this Mikvah was used very frequently, a small
fee being charged for the pleasure of having a bath. The Mikvah was always a
hive of activity on the day before the High Holydays.
At the same time it was found that the original Trust Deed
drawn up in 1905, shortly after the Congregation purchased its first property,
setting out the conditions under which the immovable property of the Congregation
might be sold or mortgaged, was very much out of date. This again raised the
question of drawing up a new Constitution to replace the original one brought
into force in 1924.
THE "NEW
ORDER"
After having served as Chairman of the Worcester Jewish
Congregation for nearly eighteen years, Mr. Sennett's office was taken over by
Mr. Wolf Heller in December, 1944. At the same time Mr. I. J. Sennett and Mr.
J. Rabinowitz were elevated to the office of Honorary Life Presidents in
recognition of their years of service to the Community, an honour which they
both richly deserved.
Mr. Heller applied himself to his duties with great energy
and the period of his chairmanship is generally regarded as the revolutionary
period in the history of the local Congregation.
Under the able guidance of Mr. Jack Friedman, a completely
new Constitution was drawn up in record time and this formed the basis of the
reorganisation. Schnoddering, or voluntary donation of funds in the
Synagogue, which provided the bulk of the income of the Congregation, was
abolished and the more reliable system of definite subscriptions paid by bank
stop orders based on location of seats in the Synagogue, introduced. The seats
were grouped into four categories, providing for corresponding ladies' seats,
at different rentals depending on their location. These subscriptions entitled
a member, inter alia, to all the services undertaken by the Congregation,
including the services of the Talmud Torah, free of charge, and the right to
hold honorary office in the Congregation with full voting rights. Under the new
Constitution, members are also entitled to a portion of the burial ground for
the interment of themselves, their wives and children and the reservation of an
adjoining piece of ground next to the deceased spouse for the interment of the
surviving spouse upon his or her death.
Furthermore, the system of aliyahs or honours in
Synagogue based on the amount schnoddered, or the recipient's position
in the Community, was abolished in favour of a democratic system of drawing
lots. This procedure was, however, subsequently replaced by choosing the names
in alphabetical sequence.
A Pension Fund for the benefit of officials of the
Congregation was brought into being, the capital sum of £5,000 being
subscribed, by members of the Congregation, to be paid off over a period of
three years.
The "new order" met with some opposition at the
outset, but it is generally agreed that the changes were for the better and
thoroughly in keeping with the development and status of the Worcester Jewish
Community.
POST-WAR PROBLEMS
AND THE IMMEDIATE PAST
Little was it realised, however, that the Pension Fund would
be made practical use of so soon after its introduction in 1946, for, on the
7th July, 1947, our beloved and revered Rabbi Ephraim Stein passed away.
A man of quiet and unassuming personality but nevertheless a
most erudite Hebrew and Talmudic scholar, he never sought the limelight. He was
content to play his unobtrusive part without the glare of publicity for the 23
years that he served as our spiritual leader. giving wise counsel where needed.
The words "Deeply mourned by the whole Jewish Community" appearing on
his tombstone, came from the heart of every Jew in Worcester.
The new Chairman, Mr. Jack Friedman, who succeeded Mr.
Heller in November, 1946, lost no time in endeavouring to find a successor for
Rabbi Stein and enquiries were made in both the Union as well as in England.
Until Rabbi Stein was replaced in September, 1948, Rev. Josephowitz, of
Robertson, acted as Shochet and the services in the Synagogue were conducted by
the Hebrew teacher.
Another problem which the congregation had to face was the
necessity of providing accommodation for the new Rabbi, and tenders were
accordingly called for the erection of a house on one of the Congregation's
plots opposite the Shul. Building operations were commenced early in 1948, and
some few months later it was decided to build a second house for the use of the
Congregation's other official. The construction of both houses was financed by
Pension Fund moneys on loan to the General Fund at five per cent. interest per
annum.
ARRIVAL OF RABBI
SMITH
Rabbi Mark Lazarus Smith, Mrs. Smith and their family
arrived in Cape Town from London on the 8th September, 1948. They were met at
the docks by representatives of all the Jewish communal bodies in Worcester and
informally introduced to the Congregation at a function in their honour held at
the Zionist Hall that evening. Prior to accepting the call to Worcester, Rabbi
Smith, who obtained his Rabbinical degree at the Hebron Yeshivah, served as
Minister to the Stoke Newington Congregation for 15 years. Applying himself
assiduously to his duties as spiritual head right from the outset, he has
identified himself with numerous aspects of communal activity both Jewish and
non-Jewish. In the latter sphere he has served on the Executive of the National
Health Foundation and is at present on the Executive of the local Council for
Adult Education. He also has the honour of being Vice-Chairman of the Jewish
Ecclesiastic Society of South Africa.
The induction of Rabbi Smith was performed by Chief Rabbi
Prof. Israel Abrahams in an impressive service held in the Synagogue on the 5th
December, 1948, under the Chairmanship of, Mr. Michael Rabinowitz.
Rev. G. H. Kahan joined the Congregation in 1950 as Baal
Tefillah (Reader in Synagogue), Hebrew Teacher and Shochet. He has also taken
an active part in communal activity, recently displaying hitherto latent talent
as an accomplished actor in a play produced under the auspices of the Union of
Jewish Women.
In order to cover the increased expenses of the Congregation,
it was necessary to raise the subscriptions by fifty per cent. as from the 1st
September, 1948. The subscriptions were further increased by 15% early in 1953.
Highlights during Mr. Rabinowitz's term of office include
the visit of the Israeli Consul-General, Mr. Goitein and the Consul, Mr.
Gaulan, and their wives in 1949 and the Chief Rabbi of the British Empire,
Rabbi Brodie, in 1950. The most important world event as far as we Jews are
concerned was the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948-a cause for
great rejoicing in Worcester as everywhere else.
EXTRA GROUND
BOUGHT
Mr. W. Elkin succeeded Mr. M. Rabinowitz as Chairman of the
Congregation in November, 1950. А desire of many years standing was brought to
realisation during Mr. Elkin's term of office by the purchase of a large piece
of ground adjoining the Zionist Hall. The purchase price of the ground was
largely subscribed by contributions from members of the congregation. In 1951,
a beautiful Succah complete with sliding roof, was presented to the
Congregation by Messrs. Wolf and Simon Heller in memory of their late mother.
To provide part of the space on which to build the Succah the old Mikvah
building was finally demolished. The remaining piece of vacant ground was
utilised for the erection of a men's toilet block and storeroom.
A most successful Regional Conference of the Cape Jewish
Board of Deputies was held at Worcester on the 3rd August, 1952. Delegates from
most of the neighbouring centres attended and matters of common concern and
interest were discussed.
It was also decided in 1952 to establish a special book to
be housed in the Synagogue in which would be inscribed the names of benefactors
to the Community to the value of £50 or more in money or kind.
THE LADIES OF
WORCESTER
Before coming to our final phase, it is fitting that we
should dwell for a moment on the activities of our ladies, who are responsible
for much of the progress of our Congregation. Reference has already been made
to some of the activities of the Ladies Society, but unfortunately many
official records cannot be found and as such much of this Society's
achievements cannot be told.
In 1944 the Jewish Ladies Society was reorganised and became
the Worcester Branch of the Union of Jewish Women. The first Chairman of the
reconstituted body was Mrs. A. Lipman. During the War, the Union convened
numerous fund-raising functions in aid of the Red Cross Drive and the Jewish
War Appeal. They were responsible for entirely equipping the kitchen at the
Zionist Hall, supplying new chairs for the Hall and furnishing the ladies'
cloakroom in the Synagogue. The Union also arranges public meetings of general
and varied interest to which both Jews and non-Jews are invited. In addition,
they convene the annual Jewish Ball and the annual Fete alternately with the
Women's Zionist League.
Amongst the numerous non-Jewish bodies on which the Union is
represented are the Regional T.B. Committee; Child Welfare Society: Blood
Transfusion Services: Adult Education Council and the Coloured Creche. The
Union was also represented on the Van Riebeeck Tercentenary Committee.
Donations are made annually to the local hospital, the Jewish Aged Home, the
Jewish Orphanage, Parasitological Laboratory, the Child Welfare Society, the
Coloured Creche and the Hebrew University.
Recently the Union has undertaken the catering on a profit
basis at private functions such as weddings and the like. A Cookery Digest, of
which 4,500 copies have already been sold, was sponsored by the Union. Two
outstanding functions were organised last year by the Union. They were an
outstandingly successful play, "Abie's Irish Rose," performed to a
Jewish and non- Jewish audience and an excellently organised Mock Wedding.
The Women's Zionist League was formed in 1935, the first
Chairman being Mrs. M. Brenner. This body has done sterling work in the
collection of funds and the making and collection of garments, for Israel and
previous to that in the collection of funds for the establishment of the Jewish
National Home. Although the two ladies' societies are run as separate bodies,
many ladies serve on both committees, rendering their work even more
commendable.
THE WORCESTER OF
TO-DAY
1953, the Fiftieth Jubilee year of the Worcester Hebrew
Congregation, again sees two old stalwarts occupying executive positions. They
are Mr. I. J. Sennett, as Chairman, and Mr. Joseph Rabinowitz as Treasurer.
Another hard worker, mostly behind the scenes, who was recently honoured by
being elected Honorary Life Vice-President, is Mr. B. E. Lipman, who serves on
the Committee.
The Worcester of to-day is a thriving industrial and
agricultural centre with a population of 25,000 in the town, apart from the
district, as against 6,800 in 1903.
As one of the most important fruit growing areas of the
Union, Worcester is well known as being one of the chief centres of the South
African wine, raisin and export grape industries. So also its canned fruits,
jams and dried fruits are exported to the four corners of the world. In
addition, it boasts of several other industries, and is the proud possessor of
a huge new Power Station, supplying electricity to many towns in the Boland and
providing the current for the electrification of the railway line from Cape
Town.
Commensurate with the growth of the town, the Jewish
population has increased from a modest 30 odd names at the time of the
establishment of the Congregation to some 120 families and over 30 unattached
adults to-day.
COMMERCE &
INDUSTRY
The modern factories and other commercial undertakings owned
by Jews, employing hundreds of people, the leading roles played by our Jews in
the spheres of culture, society, civic affairs, commerce and sport is ample
testimony to their integration into the overall. local communal life and their
contribution to the general well-being and prosperity of the town and beyond.
In the Jewish sphere we have, apart from the Congregation,
an Ein Jankov Circle and Tanach Group, a Senior and Junior Zionist Society, a
branch of the Union of Jewish Women and the Women's Zionist League, a Hebrew
Speaking Circle and a Cultural Group.
The same harmony prevailing for many years still exists
to-day. To uphold the true spirit of democracy and by established tradition,
anyone may speak his mind with absolute impunity at a communal Brocha
(Blessing) held in the Succah annually, but far from being a forum for
vituperation and abuse this is one of the most pleasant communal gatherings of
the year.
THE NEEDS OF THE
CHILDREN
The modern Hebrew School with Rabbi Smith and Rev. Kahan as
teachers, and controlled by a Talmud Torah Sub-Committee, attend to the needs
of our children. The Zionist Hall has also just been completely renovated in
honour of the Jubilee celebrations.
Our Congregation's achievements over the last half a century
will shortly be celebrated and the memories of those indomitable pioneers who
built the solid foundations of our Community will be honoured. May the next
fifty years see our Congregation continue to grow from strength to strength.
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