Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By richards on May 7, 2014

Historic New Haven synagogue celebrates a milestone

By Cindy Mindell

Credit: Samantha Annette Photography

NEW HAVEN A decade ago, the handful of elderly members still davening at Congregation Beth Israel, founded in 1913, never thought their congregation would make it to its 90th birthday. Known as the Orchard Street Shul, the Colonial Revival-style traditional Orthodox synagogue built in 1926 and listed on the Connecticut State Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places, is the only structure of its kind in the region.

But with the building and membership in poor condition, it looked like the one-time anchor of New Havens thriving Oak Street-Legion Avenue Jewish neighborhood might have to be mothballed or sold.

In 2009, a revival began to take shape. Diehard supporters and the Cultural Heritage Artists Project worked to preserve the landmark building and keep it relevant to the Jewish community, raising funds for the renovations that would allow for High Holiday services in 2012.

Rabbi Mendy Hecht became the third generation of his family to serve the congregation as spiritual leader. He started adult education classes, regular Shabbat services with an enviable kiddush, and a monthly Friday night minyan. Numbers increased, the age range stretching to include teens and college students along with the longtime seniors and even nonagenarians.

This month, the Orchard Street Shul marks the 100th anniversary of Congregation Beth Israel, a milestone that defies the cumulative effect of urban renewal and white flight of the 60s and 70s, an aging congregation, and dwindling synagogue affiliation of the 90s and beyond.

New Haven has a special Jewish history and this is the last piece left of that community and time, says Hecht. The fact that were able to use it is very special, and its really cool to be part of something that has meant so much to so many people.

Read more:
100 years on Orchard Street

Category: Jewish American Heritage Month
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