Benton Harbor, MI ~ House of David Israelite Girls’ Band Private Mailing Card

Description: Benton Harbor, MI ~ House of David Israelite Girls’ Band Private Mailing Card. Early and scarce post card depicting Benjamin Purnel and House of David Israelite Girls’ BandVery Good Condition considering age. Unposted. Minor wear, corner bumps, old age toning and light soiling. See photos for details.The House of David began in 1903 by Benjamin Purnel and his wife Mary. Benjamin claimed to be prophet of God. Thousands relocated to Benton Harbor, Michigan to follow Purnell’s “House of David” and live in the commune that promised Heaven on Earth. Members abstained from all vices, and all worldly goods were shared among the community. The colony was perhaps best known for its traveling baseball team but also fielded nationally known musical bands that toured the country almost non-stop on the Vaudeville circuit.In the 1920's the commune would meet its demise when Benjamin was accused by 13 young women testifying, under oath that they had sexual relations with the patriarch while still minors. Benjamin was conviceted of fraud but not rape charges and would die before he was sentenced. I have made my best effort to accurately describe the item and to take enough photos to accurately depict the item’s true condition and content. I do not try to hide or misrepresent any item. Please view all the photos as the are intended to be part of the description and ask any questions you may have prior to bidding. I’m always willing to take additional photos or answered detailed questions. Ultimately I want you to be happy with your purchase but returns are costly and therefore are only accepted if the wrong item is sent or arrives significantly different than it was described. Thank you for understanding

Price: 22.95 USD

Location: Saco, Maine

End Time: 2025-01-08T23:55:04.000Z

Shipping Cost: 6 USD