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 a historic synagogue located in Jackson, Tennessee. It is a place of worship for a Jewish community that follows Reform Judaism. The building is found at 401 West Grand Street.
This synagogue building is important because it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. This means it is recognized as a special place in American history.
Contents
History of the Congregation
Early Beginnings
The B'nai Israel congregation officially started in 1885. A "congregation" is a group of people who come together for religious worship. In its first years, the group did not have its own building. They held their services in members' homes. They also met in a hall above a local store.
First Permanent Home
In 1897, the congregation found its first permanent home. They bought an old church building on College Street. This building used to belong to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The Jewish community then made it their own place for worship.
Becoming Reform Jewish
In 1907, the congregation decided to join Reform Judaism. This is a branch of Judaism that often adapts traditions to modern life. They became a member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations. This organization helps connect Reform Jewish communities across the United States.
Building the Current Synagogue
The old church building served the congregation until 1941. By then, the current synagogue building was finished. The money for this new building had been saved up since 1924.
A man named Carl Heyer from Memphis designed the building. Hubert Owen, a builder from Jackson, constructed it. Interestingly, the pews (long benches) from the old church building were moved into the new synagogue. These same pews are still used today! In 1962, more classrooms were added to the building.
National Recognition
The temple building was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 16, 2008. This listing helps protect and recognize important historical places.
