Lewis John Phillips
Lewis John Phillips, real estate broker and philanthropist, died in May, in New York City.
Mr. Phillips was born in London, England, April 26, 1831, and three years later his father, J. A. Phillips, brought him to New York. In 1860 he formed the fur house of L. J. & J. Phillips, but in 1868 the business was changed, to real estate. Lewis Phillips was active in it until last November, his last transaction being one involving more than $1,000,000.
Mr. Phillips was dean of the real estate brokers. He was, until 1873, one of the largest operators in the market, but subsequently did business solely as a broker. He was the owner at one time of nearly all of the realty at Elberon, Long Branch, and died the owner of important properties.
He was the representative of the United States Government in the purchasing of the site for the Appraisers' Stores and other Federal property, and appraised the realty on which the new Custom House is being erected. In politics he was a Republican and served a term as Alderman. He was nominated in 1884 for the Mayoralty, but declined in favor of Frederick S. Gibbs. who was defeated. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce and widely known as a philanthropist. A tablet in recognition of his altruism was placed in the Mount Sinai Hospital, and he had membership in every local Jewish organization of importance.
Source: The New Era Illustrated Magazine, Volume VI, December, 1904; published monthly by The New Era Illustrated Magazine Company, 38 Park Row, New York City; Pgs. 657-658
