About Jew Street

Jew Street

Photo by Maureen Brand

A brief history

By Maureen Brand, North Laine resident

Jew Street, built circa 1780-9, is thought to have earned its name because Brighton's first synagogue was probably at the southern end from about 1792 and it is said also to have had a school. The synagogue had moved by 1808.

Fly-by-nights

In his History of Brighthelmston, John Ackerson Erredge recalls a carpenter, John Butcher of Jew Street, who in 1809 had an accident whilst working on the erection of the Royal Stables. "Upon his recovery, not being able to resume the heavy work of his trade, he constructed a machine of a similar make to the sedan chair, and placed it upon four wheels. It was drawn by hand, in the same manner as Bath chairs, while an assistant, when the person conveyed was heavy, pushed behind." It proved popular with the nobility and a second one was soon built and both vehicles were patronised by the Prince of Wales and his companions. Often used for night activities, they received the name 'Fly-by-nights'.

Jew Street today

Today Jew Street leads from Church Street and ends at a small car park at the rear of Bond Street and Bond Street Lane. Old warehouses are occupied now with modern businesses.