He was born in Hamburg, Germany, to Jewish parents, Julie and Samuel Lewisohn.

As early as 1868, the firm turned its attention to the metal trade, becoming prominent dealers in lead during that year.

He contributed to the Alliance colony in New Jersey, founded in 1882, and to almost every philanthropic institution in New York, regardless of creed.

He likewise acted as treasurer of the Hebrew Sheltering Guardian Society in New York City, to which institution he gave his counsel and large sums of money.

He was one of the largest contributors to the Jewish Theological Seminary of America and to the Montefiore Sanatorium for consumptives.