During a recent press trip to London, I stumbled upon a hidden treasure—a Jewish cemetery nestled discreetly on Fulham Road. While exploring the renowned antiquarian and rare bookseller Sokol Books in central London, I glimpsed a Jewish cemetery through one of their rear windows. It serenely contrasts with the surrounding urban hustle and bustle, shielded by a five-foot wall and displaying no outward signs.
If you are interested in beautiful artifacts that offer a window to the past, I highly recommend a visit to Sokol Books. For me, it was an extraordinary experience—like stepping back in time or having my own personal museum. Shelf after shelf reveals prize after prize, making the shop a must-visit for history buffs and antiquities enthusiasts. It is filled with original antique books adorned with beautiful bindings and calligraphy, each carrying a fascinating story.
The Fulham Road Jewish Cemetery, also known as Fulham Cemetery or formerly Brompton Jewish Cemetery, holds a significant place in the history of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Established in 1815, it served as the primary burial ground for the Western Synagogue, which later became the Western Marble Arch Synagogue. The cemetery, spanning approximately one acre (0.40 ha), is accessed through a locked door on Fulham Road, presenting a hidden oasis amidst the surrounding urban landscape. Its atmosphere, adorned with ash and plane trees, has been likened to European settings such as Prague, offering a tranquil and unexpected contrast to its London surroundings.
Over the years, the Fulham Road Jewish Cemetery has become the final resting place for several notable individuals, each contributing significantly to their respective fields:
- Herschell Filipowski (1816–1872) was a distinguished hebraist, editor, mathematician, linguist, and actuary who achieved the honor of being elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London.
- Solomon Hart (1806–1881) was an esteemed artist and professor of painting at the Royal Academy (RA) from 1854 to 1863. Hart holds the distinction of being the first Jewish member of the RA.
- Zadok Jessel (1792–1864) was a prominent businessman and the father of Sir George Jessel, who served as the Master of the Rolls.
- Joseph Waley (1818–1873) was a distinguished figure who served as the first president of the Anglo-Jewish Association and held the position of professor of political economy at London University.
- Simon Waley (1827–1875): Noteworthy for his career as a stockbroker, pianist, and composer, leaving a legacy in multiple domains.
Despite ceasing regular burials in 1885, the cemetery continued to accommodate reserved plots until 1910. Its preservation and restoration in 1898 were made possible through the generosity of benefactors such as Ellis Franklin and Adel Hopkins, who contributed significantly to maintaining its historical integrity.
In the 1970s, the cemetery faced significant uncertainty due to looming redevelopment threats. In 1974, reports surfaced about plans to deconsecrate the site and relocate the remaining remains to Israel. Thankfully, these plans were never implemented, allowing the Fulham Road Jewish Cemetery to continue serving as a poignant testament to London’s rich Jewish heritage.
Today, the Fulham Road Jewish Cemetery remains a testament to London’s rich and diverse history. Hidden behind unassuming walls, it preserves the legacies of notable figures and offers a tranquil, reflective space amidst the city’s bustle. Despite past threats of redevelopment, its serene presence endures, providing a poignant reminder of the enduring contributions and heritage of the Jewish community in London. Visiting this hidden gem offers a unique and evocative connection to the city’s multicultural past, making it a significant and meaningful site amidst the modern urban landscape of Kensington and Chelsea.
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Authored by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide.com, and New York Jewish Guide.com
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