(Foremost Orthodox Rabbi in Germany, 1808-88). Autograph Letter (draft) written to the Oldenburg Jewish Community, in German with trace Hebrew,

HIRSCH, SAMSON RAPAHEL

(1855)

thanking them for their congratulations marking the 25th anniversary since he was first elected Landesrabbiner of the principality of Oldenburg. “If anything was suited at yesterday's commemoration…to move me joyfully, yet also deeply, it was the the consecrated memory, after such a long time, with which you, dear sirs, had the kindness to surprise me with. For your friendly circle was the first to be so benevolent as to trust my youthful energies. How eventful such thoughtful provision has shaped my life ever since. The eleven years that I and my loved ones were privileged to spend in your midst…remains a matter of fond remembrance.”

Provenance: By direct family descent from Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, to the consignor. Oldenburg (Lower Saxony) was the location of R. Hirsch’s first pulpit. Aged just 22 when appointed, he remained fond of the eleven years he served its locals Jews, many of whom lived simple lives in rural villages. Due to his relative freedom from communal responsibilities, R. Hirsch was at his most productive in regard to scholarship. It was in Oldenberg that, among other works, both Horeb and the Nineteen Letters were published.