Judah Touro

1853 or 1854

Judah Touro (1775-1854), born in Newport 16 June 1775, was one of the two sons of Reverend Isaac Touro, first rabbi of the Touro Synagogue, and Reyna Hays. After the death of his mother and father, young Touro was reared and educated by his mother's brother, in whose counting-house he was later employed. In 1802 he settled in New Orleans where he built up a thriving trade in New England products. Later he became owner of many ships and valuable real estate, until he was numbered among the most prominent merchants. Judah and his brother, Amos, gave generously to many projects, including the Bunker Hill Monument. Another object of their generosity was their native city of Newport, where Amos gave to Touro Synagogue and Judah became the benefactor of the Redwood, donating two thousand dollars in 1814 for improvements to the building and three thousand dollars after his death in New Orleans 13 January 1854. He was named an honorary member of the library in 1843.

oil paint on panel

15 x 13 in. oval (38.1 x 33 cm)

Gift of Peter Chardon Brooks

PA.141