Draft:Clara Lewisohn Rossin

Clara Lewisohn Rossin (1880–1927) was a notable American philanthropist and patron of the arts, recognized for her contributions to New York City’s cultural and educational landscape.

Early Life and Family

Born on September 20, 1880, Clara was the daughter of Adolph Lewisohn, a German-Jewish immigrant who became a prominent industrialist and philanthropist. The Lewisohn family was deeply involved in New York’s cultural and philanthropic activities, which influenced Clara’s lifelong commitment to the arts and public service.

Marriage and Family

On April 25, 1899, Clara married Alfred S. Rossin, a partner in his family’s tobacco firm, S. Rossin & Sons. The wedding took place at her father’s newly completed residence at 9 West 57th Street, described as “one of the most beautiful of New York’s newer houses.” [1] The couple had five children: Edgar, Natalie, Florence, Carol, and Alfred Adolph.

Philanthropy and Cultural Contributions

Clara was deeply involved in promoting music and the arts[2]. She hosted monthly musicales at her home on East 68th Street, featuring contemporary composers such as Maurice Ravel, Edgard Varèse, Béla Bartók, and Paul Hindemith. These gatherings provided a platform for emerging artists and introduced avant-garde music to New York audiences. (The New York Trust[3])

In addition to her musical patronage, Clara served as the president of the Hebrew Technical School for Girls, an institution dedicated to providing vocational education to young women. Her leadership reflected her commitment to advancing educational opportunities and empowering women through skill development.[4]

Death

On December 17, 1927, Clara experienced a sudden illness during her customary afternoon walk along Fifth Avenue and into Central Park. She returned home by taxi but passed away shortly after from a heart attack at the age of 47.[3]

Legacy

Clara Lewisohn Rossin’s contributions to New York’s cultural and educational institutions left a lasting impact. Her support for contemporary music, dedication to women’s education, and patronage of the arts continue to be remembered as integral to the city’s rich cultural history.

  1. ^ "TREASURES IN THE ADOLPH LEWISOHN COLLECTION". New York Times. March 2, 1913.
  2. ^ "Correspondences From the Collection: O'Keeffe, Georgia, 1887-1986". Yale University Library.
  3. ^ a b "New York Community Trust".
  4. ^ "The Suffragist". Congressional Union for Woman Suffrage. 7: 15. February 8, 1919.