Who is Dr. Emin L. Nabakoff? A White Russian man that converted to pseudo-Islam in 1893?

Intro
Dr. Emin L. Nabakoff seems to have been a Russian and fake Muslim. He begins to appear in American newspapers in 1893 (Oct-8). By Dec-1893, Webb accuses Nabakoff of being a “nickel-in-the-slot machine” which would yield a love letters and fortunes. Webb alleges to have received letters of warning about Nabakoff too. Webb alleges that he told Nabakoff to “get-lost” and he hadn’t heard from him until his adhan in Union Square (See the New York Herald of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 1). Emin L. Nabakoff came to New York in August 1893 from Liverpool, England, and quickly joined the ranks of the American Moslem Brotherhood. Russian-born, he was an American citizen by virtue of his residency in Alaska during that territory’s transfer to the United States in 1867. However, prior to coming to New York, he had spent the previous several years in England as an active member within the Liverpool Moslem Institute. In Liverpool, he frequently gave lectures on various Muslim themes and chaired meetings of the Institute. He also served for two years on the Institute’s operating committee (See Dannin).

In the Oct-1893 edition of “The Crescent“, it is stated that Emin Nabakoff is in NY.

In 1893 (Oct-8), The New York Times of Sun, Oct 08, 1893 ·Page 21 reported that Mr. Webb had opened his “Moslem Temple” and was planning to open a “School of Morality”. Alexander Russell Webb, who recently returned to the USA from a long tour in Asia and intent on spreading Islam in America. It is reported that Webb has opened his Moslem Temple for his public lectures at 458 West 20th St, attendance was reported as “fair”. Emin Nabakoff, one of Mr. Webb‘s associates was wearing a roomy fez, Webb was also wearing the fez. John H. Lant (a new student of Islam) was there too and Leon Landsburg spoke on the morality, honesty and sobriety of Islamic life. Webb emphatically stated that he was not on a mission to get mass converts to Islam. Webb alleged that Islamic life was higher in morals. Webb proposes to open a “School of Morality”, which would be free to the public as well as free literature. Webb announces that there will be meetings every Friday evening as well as informal talks on Sunday afternoon. Webb proposes to create circles of 5 people which can help someone remain morally upright.

In 1893 (Dec-11), via the New York Herald of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 1, Islam in Union Square is reported on. Allegedly, Muezzin Nabakoff (aka Emin L. Nabakoff), gave the adhan (call to prayer). The headline tells the world that there seems to be a split in the white Moslems of New York, however, Webb says that he is the only Sheikh with the money and the others don’t count. On Dec-10-1893, at 10am, at 8 Union Square, NY, on the top of a stoop of an unpretentious brick building, was a grey bearded and of full figure was Emin L. Nabakoff, he recited the adhan. Muhammad Webb has called Nabakoff a fakir. A split in the white Moslem community is expected. It is mentioned how Islam in America has been financed by Haji Abdullah Arab (allegedly a merchant prince from Jeddah). The newspaper mentions how this money was used to start the Moslem World newspaper and the offices at 458 W. 20th St, Ny, NY. The newspaper explains how Webb isn’t interested in holding the 5 daily prayers, instead, Webb gives lectures on Friday evenings and on Sunday, meetings of inquiry are held. Western tours are being made by Webb‘s team. Within a few weeks, 4 teachers from India will be arriving and will help Webb with translations. Webb is not alarmed by Emin L. Nabakoff and his break-away group of white Moslems. Webb explains how he met Emin L. Nabakoff, Webb alleges that Nabakoff is 45 years old and is Russian and was vouched for by Quilliam. Webb even alleges that Quilliam is running an office for Webb in Liverpool. Webb accuses Nabakoff of being a “nickel-in-the-slot machine” which would yield a love letters and fortunes. Webb alleges to have received letters of warning about Nabakoff too. Webb alleges that he told Nabakoff to “get-lost” and he hadn’t heard from him until his adhan in Union Square. Webb also mentions John A. Lant and how he “conveniently” converted to pseudo-Islam when he heard how much money Webb had been given. Webb alleges that the newspaper reported that Webb had been given 100k and even 1 million (however, the currency is not mentioned, dollars or rupees?). Webb alleges that Lant showed up looking for work and is from Tarrytown, wherein he was running a newspaper. Webb alleges that Lant wanted $25 a week as salary and Webb refused, which caused Lant to leave and now team up with Nabakoff (aka the Union Square Movement). Webb is called “Sheikh ul Islam” in the USA. Webb scoffed at the adhan at 10am and called it blasphemy. Webb explains how 10am is never time for any daily prayer. Webb confessed that the daily prayers are not offered at his business offices. The Turkish consul in NY had heard about this meeting in Union square and sent a representative, who eventually made it to Webb‘s office (See also Democrat and Chronicle of Tue, Dec 12, 1893 ·Page 9)(See also Passaic Daily Herald of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 1)(See also The Atlanta Journal of Sat, Dec 16, 1893 ·Page 6)(See also the Stamford Advocate of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 2)(See also The Times of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 3)(See also the Mount Vernon Argus of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 2)(See also The Omaha Evening Bee of Fri, Dec 15, 1893 ·Page 4)(See also The Waterbury Democrat of
Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 4).

In 1893 (Dec-11), via the Chicago Tribune of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 2, Emin L. Nabakoff and John A. Lant are mentioned extensively as separate from Webb. Nabakoff delivered a lecture on “The progress of Islamism in the United States,” much of which the press dubbed as an attack on “Christian beliefs in unmeasured terms”. Webb had commented on Nabakoff ’s attacks on Christianity, stating that they were “most reprehensible,” did not represent the views of good Muslims, and were hurting the cause of Islam.

In 1893 (Dec-25), via The Inter Ocean of Mon, Dec 25, 1893 ·Page 3, reported that Dr. Nabakoff gave the adhan publicly and also lectured on the social position of women in Mohammedan lands. It is reported that Nabakoff argued that western women could never understand (incomprehensible) the life of an Asian woman (oriental). Nabakoff argues that most Muslims are following their tribal customs instead of adhering to the Islamic laws and thus this is their folly. Nabakoff argued: thus, in Morocco and Algeria there is more slavery and polygamy than in India and in Turkey. Nabakoff blamed polygamy on Daud (as) and Solomon (as). Nabakoff alleged that the practice of polygamy was dying in Turkey. Nabakoff argued that Muhammad (Saw) allowed 4 wives and this was an honorable way to treat a woman (See also New-York Tribune of Mon, Dec 25, 1893 ·Page 3).

In 1893 (Dec-29), via The Morning Journal-Courier of Fri, Dec 29, 1893 ·Page 1, the Mohammedan propaganda seems to making some progress. Emin L. Nabakoff (a Russian) keeps giving the adhan out of windows on Sunday in Union Square. The literary work of Webb is also mentioned. People who hear the Adhan go into a room to hear a lecture. The newspaper alleges that these white Moslem’s have been facing a backlash over Islam and women. The newspaper reports that Muhammad (Saw) had said that the majority of people in Hell will be women and in heaven, there will be black eyed women ready for sex. However, these white Moslems argued that salvation was for men and women. Nabakoff argued that the Quran doesn’t say that women have no soul. Nabakoff argued that polygamy is vanishing in Islamic lands under western supervision, Nabakoff also argued that whether a Muslim marries 1 or 4 wives, they will be held in esteem. The newspaper alleges a story wherein Muhammad (Saw) told an old woman that only young women were allowed in heaven (See also The Portland Daily Press of Fri, Dec 29, 1893 ·Page 4).

In 1893 (Dec-31), via The St. Joseph Herald of Sun, Dec 31, 1893 ·Page 4 (of St. Joseph, Missouri) it is reported about Islam in New York City. However, Mohammed Alexander Webb has nothing to do with it. Instead, a Russian man named Emin L. Nabakoff gives the Adhan every Sunday from the windows of 8 Union Square. From the streets, people hear the adhan and are ushered into a Hall. Nabakoff recently gave a lecture on Women in Islam and how salvation was equal for men and women in Islam. Nabakoff argued that if the Quran said that women have no soul, the Quran would be worthless. The newspaper makes a note how in George Sale’s English translation of the Quran, there is no such inference. Nabakoff argued that polygamy was vanishing in Islamic lands. Nabakoff argued that whether a man had 1 or 4 wives, they would all be respected and held in esteem (See also The News and Observer of Sat, Dec 30, 1893 ·Page 1).

In 1894 (Jan-15), The Brooklyn Citizen of Mon, Jan 15, 1894 ·Page 6 alleged that there is a Mahometan religious service every Sunday on Fulton Street. In a small suite of rooms at No. 515 Fulton Street called Jackson Hall a remarkable service was held yesterday afternoon. 22 people showed up, 14 women and only 8 men. Emin Nabakoff is described as an Arabian and he wore a Fez. Allegedly, at 3pm, the adhan was given by Nabakoff. Nabakoff gave a speech thereafter and alleged that Muslims don’t pray like Christians wherein they beg God for things. Nabakoff seems to argue that Allah of Islam has destined many things in the life of a Muslim, thus, there is no point in asking for anything. Nabakoff allegedly read some verses of the Quran, the verses of infanticide were read. Nabakoff made a comparison between infanticide and a man having 4 wives (polygamy) and alleged that both are in terms of population control. Nabakoff will have these weekly lectures every Sunday (See also The Brooklyn Daily Times of Sat, Jan 20, 1894 ·Page 8)(See also The Brooklyn Daily Times of Sat, Jan 27, 1894 ·Page 11).

In 1894 (Jan-22), via The New York Times of Mon, Jan 22, 1894 ·Page 5, there is a report on Mr. Nabakoff found an adversary in Paul Behman, a persian and a Christian. Nabakoff isn’t working with Webb anymore.

In 1894 (Feb-2), The Yazoo Herald of Fri, Feb 02, 1894 ·Page 1 wrote about Mr. Nabakoff and how he wants Muslim preachers to work for free.

In 1894 (Sep-26), Abdullah Quilliam suggested that Lant , Keep, and Nabakoff reorganize
and formally request affiliation with the Liverpool Moslem Institute. Quilliam
would then correspond with the Indian syndicate that originally funded Webb and ask
them to support the newly aligned group instead (See Abdullah W. H. Quilliam to John A. Lant, 26 September 1894, John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, MO, via Singleton).

In 1895 (Jan-March), Webb restructured his organization once again. He had left New York and set up the headquarters of the Moslem World Publishing Company at his home in Ulster Park, New York. In January, he published the first issue of the consolidated Moslem World and Voice of Islam newspaper. He did not use this paper to attack his rivals. Ironically, during the brief squabble between Lant and Nabakoff, Webb mentioned the newly formed groups in his paper, and he remained agreeable toward their prospects. He did, however, refrain from noting the groups’ affiliation with either gentleman. Perhaps he struck a conciliatory tone for the benefit of Islam in America, or maybe his departure from New York City eased tensions enough to mollify the abject bitterness between the men. Regarding the International Moslem Union, he stated, “The fact that organizations, taking Moslem names, are being formed quite numerously in New York, and elsewhere, speaks volumes in favor of our Islamic Propaganda . . . if its real purpose is to promulgate the truths of Islam we are disposed to give it a cordial welcome to the American Moslem Brotherhood” (See “The American Moslem Institute,” Moslem World and Voice of Islam, January 1895, p. 4; “News notes,” Moslem World and Voice of Islam, March 1895, p. 3, via Singleton). Webb published his supportive statements, despite a letter from Nabakoff castigating Webb that appeared in the January 1895 issue of the Crescent. Nabakoff defended Quilliam’s reputation against Webb’s accusations of financial improprieties in Liverpool. Nabakoff wrote, “Mr. Webb is the successful author of so many astonishing lies, that it is beyond the capacity of man to hunt them all up. I make it a rule to treat his stories with contempt, but I can’t afford a slanderer and backbiter to make mischief between friends” (“Nailing down a slander,” Crescent, January 2 1895, p. 2, via Singleton). Webb chose not to respond in kind and spent the remainder of the year publishing his paper, lecturing, and holding occasional meetings of the New York branch of the American Moslem Brotherhood. Increasingly, Webb devoted his limited column space to defending Turkey against charges of ill treatment of the Armenians and other negative characterizations of the Sultan. Nabakoff’s group was mentioned as “our American branch”. “Public Meeting of Our American Branch,” Crescent, January 2 1895, p. 5, via Singleton).

In 1895 (Jan-26), The Plain Dealer of Sat, Jan 26, 1895 ·Page 4 reported that Nabakoff is still preaching Islam to degenerate New Yorker and argued that countries that have Islam have NO lying, NO robbery and NO stealing of other men’s wives (See also The Sacramento Union of Wed, Feb 13, 1895 ·Page 8)(See also The Indianapolis Journal of Sat, Jan 26, 1895 ·Page 4)(See also The Savannah Morning News of Tue, Jan 29, 1895 ·Page 4).

In 1895 (Feb-4), The New York Times of Mon, Feb 04, 1895 ·Page 8, reported on a Fourth-Floor Mosque, which is the worship place of the “International Moslem Union”. It is reported that hats were taken off, there is no Qiblah and shoes are not removed. This is located at 835 Broadway @ 13th St, ny, NY. They are also called “the First Society For the Study of Islam”, the office is also the mosque and library of the group. A Muslim reporter for the NY Times made all of these observations. Emin Nabakoff (Leo Nabkoff is his real name) is in-charge and is named the successor of Webb,, Nabakoff is allegedly from South Russia and converted to Islam before he met Webb,. They seem to have read from literature that is Hindu-Muslim and talked about the reincarnation of the soul, the NY Times reporter scoffs at this and says that Muhammad (Saw) never said so. A few questions were asked.

In 1895 (Feb-21)(via the John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, MO, Abdullah W. H. Quilliam to John A. Lant, 21 February 1895), Mrs. Keep apparently wanted little to do with Nabakoff and Lant after their differences arose. Quilliam said of her, “She has been so be-fooled by Webb, that she became I feel convinced, suspicious of everyone in American
Islamic circles . . . In New York she would only be the ‘woman who spoiled Webb,’ here she is a representative of American Islam” (the John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, MO, Abdullah W. H. Quilliam to John A. Lant, 21 February 1895, via Singleton). In February 1895, Quilliam wrote to Lant, “I was sorry to hear of the little breeze with Bro N, which I trust will soon pass over & peace again reign supreme.

In 1895 (Mar-20), At various times, Quilliam’s newspaper, the Crescent, noted both Lant and Nabakoff’s groups as being affiliated with the Liverpool Moslem Institute. The American Moslem Institute was referred to as the “Western Branch of the Liverpool Moslem Institute.” “Editorial notes,” Crescent, March 20 1895, p. 1, via Singleton.

In 1895 (May-8), by April, Lant and Nabakoff had reconciled, and Lant once again appeared in news briefs about the International Moslem Union (See “News notes,” Crescent, May 8 1895, p. 146, via Singleton).

In 1895 (May-17), in America, the First Society continued meeting, but by April 1894, attendance was falling. They were forced to end the Sunday meetings due to the disruptions by Davidyan’s group, and according to the proprietor of the lecture hall, they had fallen behind in paying rent (See Theodore F. Price to John A. Lant, 10 April 1894, John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, via Singleton). At about this time, Hamid Snow sent a letter to the editor of the New York World trying to expose Webb as a fraud. However, he unintentionally drew negative attention upon himself and the First Society. The letter emboldened the World to investigate the state of both Islamic movements. Although Snow thoroughly castigated Webb, Webb in turn excoriated Snow and his American associates in an interview with the World. Webb said, “I know this man Hamid Snow, and he is not of the least consequence. He is a half-breed Mussulman, and is running a sort of independent church at Agra Fort. He is out for all the money in sight.” He further reminded readers of Lant’s run-ins with Comstock and reprised his version of the story of Lant’s departure from the American Islamic Propaganda. Webb said of Nabakoff, “He used to be an ice-cream peddler at Brighton, England, and knows no more about the religion of Islam than any other street fakir (destitute person).” Furthermore, he related, “When I turned Lant and Nabakoff out of my place they tried to establish a mission in Union Square. They made a failure of that, and now they are trying to injure me in India by writing to persons whose names Lant obtained from my personal papers.” He went on to chide them as “leeches,” “frauds,” and “sycophants.” Webb then focused his rage on Sheik Abdullah Quilliam, calling him “a charletan [sic] of the worst possible character” (“Far India wants to know,” New York World, May 17 1895, p. 8, via Singleton).

In 1895 (Aug-7), as 1895 progressed, few details emerged from the reconstituted International Moslem Union. Precisely this lack of information regarding the group gives evidence of its slow demise. Most significantly, no notices of the group’s meetings appeared in New York newspapers or the Crescent, although Nabakoff had a letter describing the Muslim concept of the soul published in the New York Sunday Advertiser in August (See Reprinted in “Islam in America,” Crescent, August 7 1895, pp. 86–87, via Singleton).

In 1895 (Oct-9), a report emerged that Nabakoff was considering relocating to Atlanta (See “Answers to correspondents,” Crescent, October 9, 1895, p. 282, via Singleton).

In 1896 (Jan-22), after the First Society for the Study of Islam ceased, Nabakoff and Lant continued to defend and promote Islam in America and corresponded with the Liverpool Muslims, albeit with ever-decreasing frequency. In January 1896, the Crescent announced that Lant supported forming branches of the International Moslem Union in the major cities of India, which would be affiliated with the Liverpool Moslem Institute (See “The International Moslem Union,” Crescent, January 22, 1896, p. 469). The following month, the same publication printed a letter from him scolding the American press’ reporting on the Armenian crisis in Turkey (See “The Armenian Fizzle,” Crescent, February 19 1896, p. 541, via Singleton).

In 1897 (Apr-28), the Crescent mentioned Nabakoff more than Lant, and despite his continued residence in New York the paper referred to him as a member of the Liverpool Moslem Institute. Nabakoff continued to lecture and debate for the cause of Islam. In April 1897, he debated at the Manhattan Liberal Club in favor of Turkey’s position concerning the Greco-Turkish war of the time (See “A Liverpool Muslim defends the faith in New York,” Crescent, April 28 1897, p. 268, via Singleton). Later that year, he appeared on the roster of speakers at the Tennessee Centennial Exposition’s conference of comparative religions (See “Henry H. Moore elected,” Brooklyn Eagle, October 15 1897, p. 7, via Singleton).

In 1897 (Oct-23), via the Chattanooga Daily Times of Sat, Oct 23, 1897 ·Page 2 there seems to have been a congress of Religions wherein Emin L. Nabakoff represented Islam.

In 1901 (Sep-1), the St. Louis Post-Dispatch of Sun, Sep 01, 1901 ·Page 3 reported on an Islamic mission in the Philippines. The newspaper alleges that there are currently 9 Moslem missionaries in Manila, of which 3 are white, 2 are Philippinos and 2 Malay’s. The head of the mission is Emin Nabakoff. Nabakoff had a brother in the Russian military 15 years ago. Nabakoff was previously a bishop in the Greek Church of Sitka, Alaska. Nabakoff allegedly converted to Islam by himself in Alaska. It is mentioned how Nabakoff was previously working under Webb and how they collapsed. After Webb, Nabakoff got involved with the “International Muslim Union” or “Young Turks Party”. Nabakoff was hired by the “International Muslim Union” in Ludhiana, British India to manage their missions in Malaysia and the Philippines. Mohammed Price and Ali Lant are working closely with Nabakoff (both are native born Americans and veterans of the civil war). It is reported that Hamid Snow will run the mission from Ludhiana and Nejib Selim from Singapore.

______________________________________________________________________________________________1893
Oct
The New York Times of Sun, Oct 08, 1893 ·Page 21
Oct 08, 1893, page 21 – The New York Times at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/20391911/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff

In 1893 (Oct-8), The New York Times of Sun, Oct 08, 1893 ·Page 21 reported that Mr. Webb had opened his “Moslem Temple” and was planning to open a “School of Morality”. Alexander Russell Webb, who recently returned to the USA from a long tour in Asia and intent on spreading Islam in America. It is reported that Webb has opened his Moslem Temple for his public lectures at 458 West 20th St, attendance was reported as “fair”. Emin Nabakoff, one of Mr. Webb’s associates was wearing a roomy fez, Webb was also wearing the fez. John H. Lant (a new student of Islam) was there too and Leon Landsburg spoke on the morality, honesty and sobriety of Islamic life. Webb emphatically stated that he was not on a mission to get mass converts to Islam. Webb alleged that Islamic life was higher in morals. Webb proposes to open a “School of Morality”, which would be free to the public as well as free literature. Webb announces that there will be meetings every Friday evening as well as informal talks on Sunday afternoon. Webb proposes to create circles of 5 people which can help someone remain morally upright.

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1893
Oct
The Crescent October 1893

Click to access The-Crescent-October-1893.pdf

In the Oct-1893 edition of “The Crescent“, a book entitled “Religion of the Sword” was marketed as well as others. It is stated that Emin Nabakoff is in NY. Bro Al-Hadji Elarbi Guesses is mentioned as in Gibraltor with his family. Bro Ismail Canaan of Constantinople arrived recently in the UK. A lecture entitled, “Islam in Africa” was given by Bro Haji Haroon Rashid.

They also mention receiving a newspaper from Sialkot entitled, “The Punjab”. The newspaper alleges that MGA attacked the “Knight of Aligarh” (Sir Syed?) and this was refuted by SirajudDin Ahmad.

The Ottoman Empire is worried about disease.

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1893
Dec-11
New York Herald of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 1
Dec 11, 1893, page 1 – New York Herald at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/466214036/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff
(See also Democrat and Chronicle of Tue, Dec 12, 1893 ·Page 9).
https://www.newspapers.com/image/135214415/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff
the Stamford Advocate of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 2

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1893
Dec-11
Chicago Tribune of Mon, Dec 11, 1893 ·Page 2
Dec 11, 1893, page 2 – Chicago Tribune at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/349504328/?match=1&clipping_id=new

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1893
Dec-25
The Inter Ocean of Mon, Dec 25, 1893 ·Page 3
Dec 25, 1893, page 3 – The Inter Ocean at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/33846797/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff
(See also New-York Tribune of Mon, Dec 25, 1893 ·Page 3).
https://www.newspapers.com/image/85529591/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff

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1893
Dec-29
The Morning Journal-Courier of Fri, Dec 29, 1893 ·Page 1
Dec 29, 1893, page 1 – The Morning Journal-Courier at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/466017035/?match=1&clipping_id=new
(See also The Portland Daily Press of Fri, Dec 29, 1893 ·Page 4)
https://www.newspapers.com/image/875207397/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff

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1893
Dec-31
The St. Joseph Herald of Sun, Dec 31, 1893 ·Page 4
Dec 31, 1893, page 4 – The St. Joseph Herald at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/230056697/?match=1&clipping_id=new
The News and Observer of Sat, Dec 30, 1893 ·Page 1)

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1894
Jan-15
The Brooklyn Citizen of Mon, Jan 15, 1894 ·Page 6
Jan 15, 1894, page 6 – The Brooklyn Citizen at Newspapers.com™
The Brooklyn Citizen of Mon, Jan 15, 1894 ·Page 6
https://www.newspapers.com/image/541813623/?match=1&clipping_id=new

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1894
Jan-20
The Brooklyn Daily Times of Sat, Jan 20, 1894 ·Page 8
Jan 20, 1894, page 8 – The Brooklyn Daily Times at Newspapers.com™ – Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/555780228/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff

______________________________________________________________________________________________1894
Jan-22
“Mohammed a bone of contention,” New York Times, January 22 1894, p. 5.
Jan 22, 1894, page 5 – The New York Times at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/20609463/?match=1&clipping_id=new
via Singleton

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1894
Jan-27
The Brooklyn Daily Times of Sat, Jan 27, 1894 ·Page 11
Jan 27, 1894, page 11 – The Brooklyn Daily Times at Newspapers.com™

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1894
Feb-2
The Yazoo Herald of Fri, Feb 02, 1894 ·Page 1
Feb 02, 1894, page 1 – The Yazoo Herald at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/265186794/?match=1&clipping_id=new

In 1894 (Feb-2), The Yazoo Herald of Fri, Feb 02, 1894 ·Page 1 wrote about Mr. Nabakoff and how he wants Muslim preachers to work for free.

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1894
Sep-26
See Abdullah W. H. Quilliam to John A. Lant, 26 September 1894, John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, MO, via Singleton

In 1894 (Sep-26), Abdullah Quilliam suggested that Lant , Keep, and Nabakoff reorganize
and formally request affiliation with the Liverpool Moslem Institute. Quilliam
would then correspond with the Indian syndicate that originally funded Webb and ask
them to support the newly aligned group instead (See Abdullah W. H. Quilliam to John A. Lant, 26 September 1894, John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, MO, via Singleton).
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1894
Dec-12
Buffalo Courier Express of Wed, Dec 12, 1894 ·Page 10
Dec 12, 1894, page 10 – Buffalo Courier Express at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/344200284/?match=1&clipping_id=new

In 1894, via the Buffalo Courier Express of Wed, Dec 12, 1894 ·Page 10 reported that Alexander Russell Mohammed Webb was ex-communicated by “The American Moslem Institute” because Webb instead of giving a lecture went and got drunk. This was posted from the New York Advertiser. The meeting of the “The American Moslem Institute” took place at No. 20 East 23rd St, ny, NY. Nafeesah M.T. Keep was also there as well as John A. Lant and Emin L. Nabakoff. There were also a few police officers on the scene, in case Webb showed up and tried to assault people. They were there to celebrate the 1-year anniversary of the first ever Adhan given in the USA in 1893. Princess Sophia Adelaide was there too as well as A.L. Rawson. Resolutions were passed which gave legality to the American Moslem Institute, it was a branch of the Moslem Institute of Liverpool (via Quilliam). By-laws were also established, Nafeesah was given salary of $30 per month. Nafeesah then accused Webb of being a drunkard, much to the confusion of Nabakoff and Lant. Nafeesah read from the “Commercial Gazette of Cincinnati” from Dec-1-1894. Webb was unanimously repudiated.

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1895
Jan-2
“Nailing down a slander,” Crescent, January 2 1895, p. 2.

In 1895 (Jan-March), Webb restructured his organization once again. He had left New York and set up the headquarters of the Moslem World Publishing Company at his home in Ulster Park, New York. In January, he published the first issue of the consolidated Moslem World and Voice of Islam newspaper. He did not use this paper to attack his rivals. Ironically, during the brief squabble between Lant and Nabakoff, Webb mentioned the newly formed groups in his paper, and he remained agreeable toward their prospects. He did, however, refrain from noting the groups’ affiliation with either gentleman. Perhaps he struck a conciliatory tone for the benefit of Islam in America, or maybe his departure from New York City eased tensions enough to mollify the abject bitterness between the men. Regarding the International Moslem Union, he stated, “The fact that organizations, taking Moslem names, are being formed quite numerously in New York, and elsewhere, speaks volumes in favor of our Islamic Propaganda . . . if its real purpose is to promulgate the truths of Islam we are disposed to give it a cordial welcome to the American Moslem Brotherhood” (See “The American Moslem Institute,” Moslem World and Voice of Islam, January 1895, p. 4; “News notes,” Moslem World and Voice of Islam, March 1895, p. 3, via Singleton). Webb published his supportive statements, despite a letter from Nabakoff castigating Webb that appeared in the January 1895 issue of the Crescent. Nabakoff defended Quilliam’s reputation against Webb’s accusations of financial improprieties in Liverpool. Nabakoff wrote, “Mr. Webb is the successful author of so many astonishing lies, that it is beyond the capacity of man to hunt them all up. I make it a rule to treat his stories with contempt, but I can’t afford a slanderer and backbiter to make mischief between friends” (“Nailing down a slander,” Crescent, January 2 1895, p. 2, via Singleton). Webb chose not to respond in kind and spent the remainder of the year publishing his paper, lecturing, and holding occasional meetings of the New York branch of the American Moslem Brotherhood. Increasingly, Webb devoted his limited column space to defending Turkey against charges of ill treatment of the Armenians and other negative characterizations of the Sultan.
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1895
Jan-22
See “Editorial notes,” Crescent, February 6 1895, p. 1
via Singleton

In 1895 (Jan-22), Nabakoff was nearly killed when a fire broke out in his apartment. He escaped with singed hair but lost nearly all of his possessions, including a Qur’an given to him by the Sultan of Turkey as well as his ubiquitous red fez (See “Editorial notes,” Crescent, February 6 1895, p. 1, via Singleton).
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1895
Jan-26
The Plain Dealer of Sat, Jan 26, 1895 ·Page 4
Jan 26, 1895, page 4 – The Plain Dealer at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/1074861975/?match=1&clipping_id=new
(See also The Sacramento Union of Wed, Feb 13, 1895 ·Page 8)(See also The Indianapolis Journal of Sat, Jan 26, 1895 ·Page 4)(See also The Savannah Morning News of Tue, Jan 29, 1895 ·Page 4).

In 1895 (Jan-26), The Plain Dealer of Sat, Jan 26, 1895 ·Page 4 reported that Email Nabakoff is still preaching Islam to degenerate New Yorker and argued that countries that have Islam have NO lying, NO robbery and NO stealing of other men’s wives (See also The Sacramento Union of Wed, Feb 13, 1895 ·Page 8)(See also The Indianapolis Journal of Sat, Jan 26, 1895 ·Page 4)(See also The Savannah Morning News of Tue, Jan 29, 1895 ·Page 4).

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1895
Feb-4
The New York Times of Mon, Feb 04, 1895 ·Page 8
Feb 04, 1895, page 8 – The New York Times at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/20523488/?match=1&clipping_id=new

In 1895 (Feb-4), The New York Times of Mon, Feb 04, 1895 ·Page 8, reported on a Fourth-Floor Mosque, which is the worship place of the “International Moslem Union”. It is reported that hats were taken off, there is no Qiblah and shoes are not removed. This is located at 835 Broadway @ 13th St, ny, NY. They are also called “the First Society For the Study of Islam”, the office is also the mosque and library of the group. A Muslim reporter for the NY Times made all of these observations. Emin Nabakoff (Leo Nabkoff is his real name) is in-charge and is named the successor of Webb, Nabakoff is allegedly from South Russia and converted to Islam before he met Webb. They seem to have read from literature that is Hindu-Muslim and talked about the reincarnation of the soul, the NY Times reporter scoffs at this and says that Muhammad (Saw) never said so. A few questions were asked.

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1895
Feb-21
the John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, MO, Abdullah W. H. Quilliam to John A. Lant, 21 February 1895, via Singleton).

In 1895 (Feb-21)(via the John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, MO, Abdullah W. H. Quilliam to John A. Lant, 21 February 1895), Mrs. Keep apparently wanted little to do with Nabakoff and Lant after their differences arose. Quilliam said of her, “She has been so be-fooled by Webb, that she became I feel convinced, suspicious of everyone in American
Islamic circles . . . In New York she would only be the ‘woman who spoiled Webb,’ here she is a representative of American Islam” (the John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, MO, Abdullah W. H. Quilliam to John A. Lant, 21 February 1895, via Singleton).
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1895
Mar-20
Crescent, March 20 1895, p. 1, “Western Branch of the Liverpool Moslem Institute.” “Editorial notes”, via Singleton

In 1895 (Mar-20), At various times, Quilliam’s newspaper, the Crescent, noted both Lant and Nabakoff’s groups as being affiliated with the Liverpool Moslem Institute. The American Moslem Institute was referred to as the “Western Branch of the Liverpool Moslem Institute.” “Editorial notes,” Crescent, March 20 1895, p. 1, via Singleton.
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1895
May-8
See “News notes,” Crescent, May 8 1895, p. 146, via Singleton

In 1895 (May-8), by April, Lant and Nabakoff had reconciled, and Lant once again appeared in news briefs about the International Moslem Union (See “News notes,” Crescent, May 8 1895, p. 146, via Singleton).
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1895
May-17
“Far India wants to know,” New York World, May 17, 1895, p. 8.

In 1895 (May), in America, the First Society continued meeting, but by April 1894, attendance was falling. They were forced to end the Sunday meetings due to the disruptions by Davidyan’s group, and according to the proprietor of the lecture hall, they had fallen behind in paying rent (See Theodore F. Price to John A. Lant, 10 April 1894, John A. Lant Papers, Missouri Historical Society, St Louis, via Singleton). At about this time, Hamid Snow sent a letter to the editor of the New York World trying to expose Webb as a fraud. However, he unintentionally drew negative attention upon himself and the First Society. The letter emboldened the World to investigate the state of both Islamic movements. Although Snow thoroughly castigated Webb, Webb in turn excoriated Snow and his American associates in an interview with the World. Webb said, “I know this man Hamid Snow, and he is not of the least consequence. He is a half-breed Mussulman, and is running a sort of independent church at Agra Fort. He is out for all the money in sight.” He further reminded readers of Lant’s run-ins with Comstock and reprised his version of the story of Lant’s departure from the American Islamic Propaganda. Webb said of Nabakoff, “He used to be an ice-cream peddler at Brighton, England, and knows no more about the religion of Islam than any other street fakir (destitute person).” Furthermore, he related, “When I turned Lant and Nabakoff out of my place they tried to establish a mission in Union Square. They made a failure of that, and now they are trying to injure me in India by writing to persons whose names Lant obtained from my personal papers.” He went on to chide them as “leeches,” “frauds,” and “sycophants.” Webb then focused his rage on Sheik Abdullah Quilliam, calling him “a charletan [sic] of the worst possible character” (“Far India wants to know,” New York World, May 17 1895, p. 8, via Singleton.
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1895
Aug-7
Reprinted in “Islam in America,” Crescent, August 7 1895, pp. 86–87, via Singleton

In 1895 (Aug), as 1895 progressed, few details emerged from the reconstituted International Moslem Union. Precisely this lack of information regarding the group gives evidence of its slow demise. Most significantly, no notices of the group’s meetings appeared in New York newspapers or the Crescent, although Nabakoff had a letter describing the Muslim concept of the soul published in the New York Sunday Advertiser in August (See Reprinted in “Islam in America,” Crescent, August 7 1895, pp. 86–87, via Singleton).
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1895
Oct-9
“Answers to correspondents,” Crescent, October 9 1895, p. 282, via Singleton

In 1895 (Oct-9), a report emerged that Nabakoff was considering relocating to Atlanta (See “Answers to correspondents,” Crescent, October 9 1895, p. 282, via Singleton).
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1896
Jan-22
Feb-19
“The International Moslem Union,” Crescent, January 22 1896, p. 469.
“The Armenian Fizzle,” Crescent, February 19 1896, p. 541

In 1897 (Apr), the Crescent mentioned Nabakoff more than Lant, and despite his continued residence in New York the paper referred to him as a member of the Liverpool Moslem Institute. Nabakoff continued to lecture and debate for the cause of Islam. In April 1897, he debated at the Manhattan Liberal Club in favor of Turkey’s position concerning the Greco-Turkish war of the time (See “A Liverpool Muslim defends the faith in New York,” Crescent, April 28 1897, p. 268, via Singleton). Later that year, he appeared on the roster of speakers at the Tennessee Centennial Exposition’s conference of comparative religions (See “Henry H. Moore elected,” Brooklyn Eagle, October 15 1897, p. 7, via Singleton).
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1897
Oct
Chattanooga Daily Times of Sat, Oct 23, 1897 ·Page 2
Oct 23, 1897, page 2 – Chattanooga Daily Times at Newspapers.com™
https://www.newspapers.com/image/604693389/?match=1&terms=Nabakoff

In 1897 (Oct-23), via the Chattanooga Daily Times of Sat, Oct 23, 1897 ·Page 2 there seems to have been a congress of Religions wherein Emin L. Nabakoff represented Islam.

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1898
Jan
“Editorial notes,” Crescent, January 26 1898, p. 57.

In 1898 (Jan), the final mention of Nabakoff in the Crescent is noted, when it was announced
that he was appointed as a Notary Public for the state of New York (See “Editorial notes,” Crescent, January 26 1898, p. 57, via Singleton).
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1901
Sep-1
the St. Louis Post-Dispatch of Sun, Sep 01, 1901 ·Page 3
https://www.newspapers.com/image/138260375/?match=2&clipping_id=193981645

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Links and Related Essay’s

https://www.newspapers.com/image/466017035/?match=1&clipping_id=new

https://www.newspapers.com/image/33846797/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff

https://www.newspapers.com/image/466214036/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff

https://www.newspapers.com/image/135214415/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff

Click to access The-Crescent-October-1893.pdf

https://www.newspapers.com/image/20391911/?match=1&terms=Emin%20Nabakoff

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