Jersey City Historic Synagogues | Jewish Historical Society

Continuing with the historic synagogues of North Jersey, this week we feature synagogue photos from Jersey City. At one point Jersey City had at least seven congregations. Many of the photos presented are part of the Steven Weintraub Collection.

Temple Beth El of Jersey City (NJ), Isaac Ephraim Congregation 1874, 1891, 1920 — Temple Beth El of Jersey City began as the Isaac Ephraim Congregation in 1874 and took its present name in 1891. The domed structure that houses the synagogue today was erected in 1920.

Congregation Agudath Shalom, 1895, Merged Beth Abraham in 1915,148 Summit Ave — Congregation Agudath Shalom was organized in 1895 and built their synagogue at 148 Summit Ave. Later the congregation combined with Congregation Beth Abraham and built their new synagogue which was dedicated May 1915. Below is a photo of the sanctuary.

Congregation B'nai Jacob, 347 West Side Ave, 176 West Side Ave, Jersey City NJ, 1960 — Congregation B’nai Jacob’s first house of worship was established in 1960 at 347 West Side Avenue. Below on the left is a view of the pulpit taken in 1960. On the right is a view of the present-day pulpit at their synagogue located at 176 West Side Avenue, Jersey City.

Congregation Mt. Sinai of Jersey City (NJ), 1906, Copper Cupolas — Congregation Mt Sinai of Jersey City came into being in 1906. On top is a view of the sanctuary, on the bottom is the building’s exterior view showing the distinctive landmark copper cupolas.

Good Shepard Church of Christ, 1981 — Temple Emanu-El was located at Bergen and Jewett Avenues, Jersey City. It was founded in 1930. The building was sold to the Good Shepard Church of Christ in November 1981.