Moses Raphael Levy

The German-born Moses Levy—the name Raphael (God heals) wasbestowed on him as he lay on his deathbed—moved with his brotherSamuel to London as young men. In the late-eighteenth century theyhad made their way to New York, although strong business and familyconnections to London were maintained, and Levy would return Englandon business.

Thebrothers married a pair of sisters, the daughters of Asher Michallsde Paul, Moses marrying Rycha and his brother Rachel. Levy emerged asa very successful merchant in New York, involved in shipping andtrade with Europe and the Caribbean. In 1695 he was made a freeman inNew York. His attentions turned as well to the city’s small Jewishcommunity, and he served as parnas of Shearith Israel. He isalso on record as having contributed to the fund to build a spire forTrinity Church.

WithRycha he had five children, including daughter BilhahAbigail. In 1716 Rycha died, and two years later he marriedGrace Mears in London. They would haveanother seven children together.

Moses Raphael Levy

c. 1735