Ottoman Armenian Document #21
Name/Title
Ottoman Armenian Document #21Scope and Content
Lease and Sublease Contract (Îcar ve istîcar mukâvelenâmesi), 1903–1904: The contract pertains to a property in the district of Sivas, situated next to the Yeni Taşhan (New Caravanserai). The tenant (müste’cir) is Mirijan Odabashian, who leased and operated the Bon Marché store, a property owned by Avedis and Garabed Shahinian. The rental fee was 60 Ottoman liras, payable in cash. The agreement was signed by Avedis and Garabed Shahinian, with the tenant’s signature listed as “Odabashian Shirinian Corp.” (Օտապաշեան Շիրինեան եւ ընկ.) At Bon Marché, Mirijan Odabashian sold jewelry and ornaments, fragrances and perfumes, and a wide array of household goods in partnership with Vosgan Shirinian and Nshan Ambrugian. In the years leading up to the Armenian Genocide, Mirijan Odabashian, along with Garabed Shahinian and other community leaders, was summoned by Vali Muammer Bey, who informed them that the deportation of the Armenian population had been decided. During the subsequent period, Mustafa Sabri Bey, serving as President of the Court Martial, is reported to have played a key role in the plunder of Armenian property and the destruction of their homes. According to multiple accounts, he seized the merchandise of Mirijan Odabashian—who had converted to Islam—and later set fire to the Bon Marché store. Testimonies also implicate him in numerous assaults against Armenian women.Category
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