August 13th , 1846
Otto Jaffe, a prominent businessman and politician in Belfast, Northern Ireland, was born on August 13, 1846, in Hamburg, Germany. Jaffe is notable for his contributions to the Jewish community in Belfast and his role as the first Jewish Lord Mayor of the city.
Early Life and Background
Family Background: Otto Jaffe was born into a well-established Jewish family in Hamburg. His father, Daniel Joseph Jaffé, was a successful merchant who later moved the family to Belfast in 1852 when Otto was still a child. The Jaffe family became one of the most influential Jewish families in Belfast.
Education and Career: Otto Jaffe was educated in Hamburg and at Queen’s College in Belfast. He entered the family business, Jaffe Brothers, which was involved in the linen trade. Under his leadership, the business flourished, and he became one of the leading industrialists in Belfast.
Contributions to Belfast
Community Leadership: Otto Jaffe was deeply involved in the civic and cultural life of Belfast. He was a benefactor to many causes and contributed to the growth of the Jewish community in the city. Jaffe was instrumental in the construction of the Belfast Hebrew Congregation’s synagogue in Annesley Street, which opened in 1904.
Political Career: Jaffe’s success in business and his dedication to public service led to his election as a councilor in Belfast. He served as the Lord Mayor of Belfast twice, in 1899 and again in 1904, making him the first Jewish person to hold this office. His leadership was marked by his efforts to improve the city’s infrastructure and public services.
Philanthropy: Jaffe was known for his philanthropy, particularly towards education and health. He supported many charitable causes in Belfast, including the Belfast Royal Academy and the city’s hospitals. He was also a significant supporter of the Jewish community, both locally and internationally.
Later Life and Legacy
World War I and Anti-German Sentiment: During World War I, Jaffe faced considerable anti-German sentiment in Belfast due to his German origins. Despite his long-standing contributions to the city, this sentiment forced him to leave Belfast in 1916. He returned to England, where he lived in relative obscurity until his death.
Death: Otto Jaffe died on April 29, 1929, in London. Despite the difficulties he faced later in life, he is remembered for his significant contributions to the civic life of Belfast and for his leadership within the Jewish community.
Legacy: Jaffe’s legacy in Belfast is still recognized today. He is remembered as a pioneering figure who helped shape the city’s development during a time of significant growth and change. The Jaffe Fountain in Victoria Square, Belfast, originally erected in 1874 and restored in recent years, stands as a testament to his impact on the city.
Otto Jaffe’s life story is one of remarkable achievement, overcoming the challenges of his time to leave a lasting legacy in Belfast. His contributions to the city and his role as a bridge between communities make him an important figure in the history of Northern Ireland.
