The signature is big and bold. On a subscription list, (pictured left) Benjamin Franklin pledges five pounds (worth approximately $800 in today’s dollars) in support of a synagogue for “the people of the Hebrew society in the city of Philadelphia.” The building was the first home
of what is now known as historic Congregation Mikveh Israel and the subscription list signed by Franklin, and other distinguished Christian gentlemen who also made donations, is the centerpiece of a new temporary exhibition being mounted by the Museum as part of the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary. “Benjamin Franklin and Religious
Liberty” opens December 15, 2005 at the National Museum of American Jewish History and runs through May 31, 2006. The free exhibition will explore Franklin’s relationship with the Jewish community and illustrate his role in forging a pluralistic America.

The congregation of Mikveh Israel, which now shares its location with the NMAJH, dates back to 1740 with the creation of the first Jewish cemetery in Philadelphia. It was not until 1782 that the congregation purchased a space for their first synagogue, on Cherry Street, between
Third and Fourth streets. The subscription list is a record of the donations made to relieve the debt for the construction of this building, Philadelphia’s first synagogue.

“The subscription list illustrates Franklin’s openness toward Jewish religious expression in
America and is the most important example of his relationship to the Jewish community at this time,” said Museum Curator Dr. Nina Spiegel, who is organizing the exhibition. Indicative of these friendly relations, Dr. Spiegel noted, was “The Pennsylvania Gazette” obituary in 1790 that reported “All the Clergy of the city, including the Ministers of the Hebrew congregation” marched in Franklin’s funeral procession.

“Unlike in Europe where Jews were regarded as outsiders, we see that in America in this period, Jews were viewed as one of several religious minorities,” Dr. Spiegel said. Other objects in the exhibition, such as a book published by Franklin, “The History of the Rise, Increase, and Progress of the Christian People Called Quakers,” give further examples of Franklin’s support of religious liberty for all, she added. In conjunction with the exhibition, the museum will feature a theatrical storyteller in an original piece exploring the Jewish community in 18th century Philadelphia and Franklin's legacy of religious pluralism. Free performances by the storyteller will be presented on Fridays, noon to 3 p.m. Sundays, noon to 4 p.m.; and occasional weekdays.

“Benjamin Franklin and Religious Liberty” is being held in conjunction with “Ben Franklin 300
Philadelphia,” a region-wide celebration of all-things Franklin taking place beginning in the fall of 2005 and running through 2006. The Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary, a non-profit consortium established to reaffirm Franklin’s enduring legacy in his 300th birthday year, is presenting special projects that form the official national celebration. The key component is the exhibition “Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World,” which opens at the National Constitution
Center in Philadelphia December 15, 2005.

"The NMAJH exhibition is unique in its focus on Franklin's religious tolerance. This is another one of many aspects of Franklin that has strong contemporary relevance," said Nicola Twilley, Director of Public Programming for the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary.

For more information about Tercentenary events, visit www.benfranklin.org The National Museum of American Jewish History’s mission is to present educational programs and experiences that preserve, explore and celebrate the history of Jews in America. Our purpose is to connect Jews more closely to their heritage and to inspire in people of all backgrounds a greater appreciation for the diversity of the American Jewish experience and the freedoms to which Americans aspire.

CONTACT JAY NACHMAN AT 215-923-5978 OR BY EMAIL AT JNACHMAN@NMAJH.ORG