Bradda View Platform Memorial Benches - The Hyman Family

In Memory of Samuel and Beatrice Hyman who was always known as Dolly

Dedicated by Dolly and Sam’s Granddaughters Karen Abramson (Spiero) and Ruth Benson (Spiero)

Samuel and Dolly Hyman owned jewellery shops in Port Erin from the 1920s to the 1970s.  They had two daughters Denise and Leila.  They were respected members of the village community and devoted members of the small Jewish group on the Island, to whom they presented a Torah, which is still in use today.

During World War II, Port Erin and Port St Mary became the Rushen Internment Camp.  4000 women, mainly Jewish ladies fleeing Germany, were housed in luxury hotels, guest houses and private homes.  Dolly helped many of the internees, doing whatever she could to ease the pain of separation felt by many of the women. 

 In October 1940, a unique celebration of Rosh Hashanah took place in Port Erin, with no Rabi or Minyan (a male committee of 10) available to officiate at the High Holy Day in the Jewish Calendar.  Dolly organised the service of worship.  It is recorded that over 200 women gathered in the village cinema to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and all thanks to Dolly.