Congregation B'nai Israel (Jackson, Tennessee) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Congregation B’nai Israel |
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Reform Judaism |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Synagogue |
| Leadership | Rabbi Cantor John M. Kaplan |
| Status | Active |
| Location | |
| Location | 401 West Grand Street, Jackson, Tennessee 38308 |
| Country | United States |
 Location in Tennessee
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| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Carl Heyer |
| Architectural type | Synagogue |
| Architectural style | Romanesque Revival |
| General contractor | Hubert Owen |
| Date established | 1885 (as a congregation) |
| Completed | 1941 |
| Materials | Brick |
Congregation B’nai Israel is an important Jewish place of worship in Jackson, Tennessee. It is a synagogue that follows Reform Judaism, a modern way of practicing the Jewish faith. You can find it at 401 West Grand Street.
This synagogue building is considered so special that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. This means it's a historic site worth protecting.
Contents
History of the Synagogue
Starting the Congregation
The B'nai Israel congregation officially began in 1885. A "congregation" is a group of people who gather for religious worship. In its early days, the members didn't have their own building.
They held their services in different places. Sometimes they met in people's homes. Other times, they gathered in a hall above a store owned by M. Tuchfeld. This store later became known as Kisber's Department Store.
Finding a Permanent Home
In 1897, the congregation found its first real home. They bought an old church building that used to belong to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. They made it ready for Jewish worship and celebrated its new purpose.
A few years later, in 1907, the congregation decided to join Reform Judaism. This made them part of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, a larger group of Reform synagogues.
Building the Current Temple
The old church building served the congregation for many years. But by 1941, they had a new, special building ready. This new temple is the one you see today.
Money for the new building had been saved up since 1924. A famous Memphis architect named Carl Heyer designed the building. A local builder from Jackson, Hubert Owen, constructed it.
Interestingly, some of the Pews (long benches for sitting) from the old Cumberland Presbyterian Church building were moved into the new synagogue. These same pews are still used by the congregation today! Later, in 1962, more classrooms were added to the building.
A Historic Landmark
Because of its history and importance, the temple was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 16, 2008. This helps make sure this special building is preserved for future generations.
