Kosher and Jewish Life in Port Of Spain

The first major Jewish immigration to the islands of Trinidad and Tobago occurred in the late 18th century. Then a second wave of Portuguese Jews arrived in the late 19th century, with a few also arriving from Curacao. Nevertheless, many of these Jews assimilated and intermarried with locals. By the beginning of the 20th century, only 31 practicing Jews remained on the island. One of the most recognized Jews was Sir Nathaniel Nathan who served as Associate Justice of the Trinidad Supreme Court from 1893 to 1900 and Chief Justice from 1900 to 1903. During the 1930s, many Jews fled to Trinidad from Europe escaping Nazi persecution. These new immigrants found housing rented by a Jewish aid society in the capital, Port of Spain. By 1939, the Jewish community had soared to 600 people. It was during this time that the first synagogue was erected on Duke Street in Port of Spain. Today, the Jewish community numbers around 25-67 people, depending on who is inquired. Occasionally, communal services are held for Shabbat and holidays.