Old Ohavi Zedek Synagogue facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Old Ohavi Zedek Synagogue(now Ahavath Gerim Synagogue) |
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The Old Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, now used by Congregation Ahavath Gerim
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Conservative Judaism |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Synagogue |
| Leadership | Rabbi: vacant |
| Status | Active |
| Location | |
| Location | Archibald and Hyde Sts., Burlington, Vermont |
| Country | United States |
 Location in Vermont
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| Architecture | |
| Architectural type | Synagogue |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| Date established | 1876 (as a congregation) |
| Completed | 1885 |
| Materials | Timber; brick cladding |
The Old Ohavi Zedek Synagogue is a very old and important building in Burlington, Vermont. A synagogue is a special place where Jewish people gather to worship and learn. The name "Ohavi Zedek" means "Lovers of Justice" in Hebrew.
This historic building was built in 1885. It was originally home to Ohavi Zedek, which is the oldest Jewish community in Vermont. Today, another group called Congregation Ahavath Gerim uses the building. The synagogue has a unique look, inspired by the Gothic Revival style. Because of its history and special design, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. This means it's recognized as a very important landmark.
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History of the Synagogue
Vermont's Oldest Jewish Community
The Ohavi Zedek community started in 1876. It was formed by Jewish immigrants who came to Vermont from countries in Eastern Europe, especially Lithuania. This makes Ohavi Zedek the oldest Jewish community in Vermont.
The community built this synagogue in 1885. It was their main gathering place for many years. In 1952, the Ohavi Zedek community moved to a new, larger building. The old building was then sold to the Ahavath Gerim community. Ahavath Gerim is a traditional Jewish group that follows Conservative traditions.
Building Design and Features
The Old Ohavi Zedek building is located at the corner of Archibald and Hyde Streets in Burlington. It is a rectangular building made of brick. It has a pointed roof and features that are typical of the Gothic Revival style.
Outside the Building
The front of the synagogue has arched windows. These windows are on either side of an arched main entrance. You reach the entrance by walking up stairs that face the sides. Above the entrance, there is a round window. This window has a Star of David design, which is a symbol of Judaism.
The sides of the building also have arched windows. Above these, there are smaller round windows called oculus windows. These small windows help bring light into the women's gallery inside the synagogue.
Inside the Building
The synagogue was first built in 1885. It is one of the oldest synagogue buildings still standing in the United States. When it was first built, it was made of wood. In 1902, brick was added to the outside, and the building was made bigger.
The synagogue was made even larger in 1928. At that time, the special cabinet called the Torah ark was built. The Torah ark is where the holy Torah scrolls are kept. This ark has a classic design. It shows the Ten Commandments and is decorated with golden lions and pineapple-shaped ornaments.
More to Explore
- Oldest synagogues in the United States
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Chittenden County, Vermont
