Document from the Batei Moshav Zekeinim V’Zekeinot Yerushalayim, signed by rabbis, including Rabbi Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld. The letter expresses support for the plan to construct a building for the Bikur Cholim Hospital on land purchased for this purpose. Jerusalem, [1907].
[2] leaves. 21×27 cm. Each leaf is written on one side. 7 signatures and 2 stamps.
The hospital was founded in the Old City in 1867 by the Peirushim, under the auspices of the German consulate. In 1908, Yoel Moshe Solomon, who was on the hospital committee, purchased land outside the Old City. Although the cornerstone was laid in 1912, construction wasn’t completed until after the First World War. The second leaf features a handwritten supplement by prominent Jerusalem rabbis, including Rabbi Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld, Rabbi Yehosef Ralbag, and others.
Rabbi Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld (1848-1932) was one of the leaders of the Old Yishuv in Eretz Yisrael and was the first rabbi of the Eidah HaChareidis. He was born in Slovakia and was educated by Torah giants, including the Ketav Sofer, son of the Chatam Sofer. He immigrated to Eretz Yisrael in 1873, and was one of the spiritual leaders of the Agudat Yisrael.
Very fine condition.