Benjamin Tarnopolsky Paul

12/24/1898 – 05/17/1970   

Benjamin Tarnopolsky was born in Rzhishchev, Ukraine in 1898. He was the youngest son of Chaim and Sure and was affectionately known as Benchik to his family. He followed his brother, David, to Dnepropetrovsk where he operated a textile and clothing store. His brother, Moses, and his nephew helped him in the store. Benchik immigrated to America in 1920, while still single. He changed his name to Benjamin Paul and opened several clothing stores in Philadelphia. A sharp dresser, Benjamin loved buying clothes for the store. Family members frequented the stores and were entertained by Ben. His addresses in Philadelphia included 2013 S. 7th Street, 7th and Jackson and 7th and [Whitin Street].

Ben met Esther Black (nee Tcharnieka), who had immigrated from Uman, Russia (now Ukraine). They married in 1922 and had three children; Herbert, Harry and Shirley.

Benjamin was raised in a chassidic environment and deeply devoted to Jewish causes. He was Vice-President of Bnei Chayim and a member of the executive of the National Jewish Labor Union, Branch 25, where he was inscribed in the Golden Book for his achievements, active between the Poale Zion, former president of the 7th Street Business Association, member in orphanage and old age home, and a liberal contributor to other charity institutions.

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1930 U.S. Census