The Constitution of the Female Hebrew Benevolent Society of Philadelphia [Rebecca Gratz], Philadelphia: Printed for the Society, 1825

12 pages (8 1/4 x 5 in.; 212 x 126 mm). Lightly browned and spotted; minor creases. Modern half morocco over marbled paper; title gilt on spine.

Rosenbach 270, Singerman 0428, Shoemaker 20505.

A rare copy of the foundational document of the Philadelphia philanthropic organization, founded in 1819 to assist the Jewish indigent. As the first non-synagogue-related Jewish charitable society in America, it would provide a national model for similar societies which would later spring up in New York and other Jewish communities. In addition to the text of the constitution itself, this exceedingly rare pamphlet includes a set of "rules and regulations," the original membership roll of approximately 125 individuals, and a report on the Society’s early activities, presumably written by Rebecca Gratz in her role of secretary. In addition to Gratz, widely recognized as the prime mover in the formation of the Society, the other officers included co-directors Rebecca J. Phillips and Bell Cohen, and treasurer S. Bravo.