Biography

Henry Ansell served as congregation secretary for several years and was a trustee of the synagogue. He married Hannah Cohen in Hobart in 1874. Ansell lived at times in Hobart and Melbourne as well. As a commercial traveller, even when living interstate, he made frequent trips to Hobart and was the subject of synagogue correspondence in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

A framed testimonial was presented to Ansell by the congregation in 1895. It hangs in the synagogue's board room.

Ansell died suddenly while waiting for a tram in Sandy Bay after attending a Shabbat service in 1911.

Rev. Isack Morris spoke very highly of Ansell in an oration, praising his kindness and love of children.