'The New Colossus' Poet Has Roots in Jewish Newport
Emma Lazarus, famous for her poem now on the Statue of Liberty, also wrote about Touro Synagogue.
While 19th century poet Emma Lazarus is most noted for her sonnet “The New Colossus,” which was written about the Statue of Liberty, she also drew inspiration in Newport.
The New York Times wrote today about Lazarus's roots in the Sephardic Jewish families, who were leaders in establishing the country's first synagogues, including Touro Synagogue.
Lazarus penned “In the Jewish Synagogue at Newport” in response to Longfellow's “The Jewish Cemetery at Newport.”
Her great-great uncle is also said to have welcomed President George Washington to the Jeshuat Israel congregation in Newport in 1790, the paper writes.
This past August, Gov. Lincoln Chafee referenced her 1867 poem during one of his remarks at the synagogue, noting Touro as “the consecrated spot.”
Emma Lazarus: Poet of Exiles is on exhibit in New York through summer 2012 as part of the 125th anniversary of the dedication of the Statue of Liberty.
