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Benjamin Franklin Medal Presented to Oldest Synagogue in Philadelphia

January 30, 1956
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A Franklin medal for distinguished service was presented to Congregation Mikveh Israel here yesterday. The medal, authorized by Congress, is being presented to societies, institutions and enterprises with which Benjamin Franklin was associated as member, founder or sponsor. Presentation of the medal was made by Congressman Hugh Scott.

Mikveh Israel, the oldest synagogue in this city and second oldest in the nation, was associated with the revolutionary leader when he was a member of a group of distinguished non-Jews who raised a substantial sum of money to save the synagogue from being foreclosed under a judgment for unpaid construction bills. A subscription list, date 1788 and bearing Franklins signature, was on display at the synagogue during the special Sabbath services.

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