Discover the B'nai Israel Synagogue, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Council Bluffs, Iowa. This historic synagogue is not just a place of worship but a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the local Jewish community. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the B'nai Israel Synagogue offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of Jewish history in the region.
The story of the Jewish community in Council Bluffs begins in 1881 with the formation of the Bikur Cholim congregation. With 25 charter members, this Orthodox congregation held services in rented facilities, as they had neither a rabbi nor a building of their own. Despite these humble beginnings, the community's commitment to their faith and traditions laid the groundwork for the establishment of the B'nai Israel Synagogue.
In 1903, the Chevra B’nai Yisroel Congregation was organized with 14 adult male members. The following year, they acquired a property and built a frame synagogue. This building served as the heart of the community until tragedy struck on March 5, 1930, when a fire destroyed the synagogue. Remarkably, the congregation managed to save the Torah, sacred scrolls, and other religious items from the blaze.
Scavenger hunts in Council Bluffs
Discover Council Bluffs with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Council Bluffs with your team!
Determined to rebuild, the congregation formed a building committee and enlisted architect J. Chris Jensen to design a new synagogue. The cornerstone from the original building was recovered and inscribed for the new structure, symbolizing continuity and resilience. Completed on January 11, 1931, the new synagogue, built at a cost of $26,000 (approximately $400,000 in today’s values), could seat 500 people and featured an impressive design that blended tradition with modernity.
The mid-20th century saw significant changes within the congregation. Under the leadership of various rabbis, including Louis Leifer, David Korb, and Emil Klein, the community transitioned from Orthodox to Conservative Judaism. This shift allowed for the use of English in services and the integration of men and women sitting together, a departure from the previous practice where women and children sat in the balcony. In November 1953, the congregation officially changed its name to B'nai Israel.
In the early 1960s, architect I.T. Carrithers designed an addition to the synagogue, expanding the space to accommodate the growing congregation. Although only the back addition was built, this renovation marked a new era for B'nai Israel. However, despite these efforts, the congregation began to decline in numbers, leading to plans to disband and sell the property in the 1980s. Yet, the members' determination to keep the synagogue alive led to the recruitment of new members, ensuring its survival.
In 1989, Rabbi Sharon Steifel became the first Reconstructionist rabbi at B'nai Israel, followed by Rabbis Sheryl Shulewitz and Ruth Ehrenstein. This period marked another transformation for the congregation, embracing Reconstructionist principles and adapting to the changing needs of the community. Today, the synagogue no longer has a rabbi and is unaffiliated with any specific movement, holding one service per month attended by local Jews and members of other Omaha congregations.
The B'nai Israel Synagogue's exterior is a striking example of polychrome, rough-cast brickwork, topped with a classical entablature and galvanized iron cornice. The building sits on a raised basement, with three doorways leading into the sanctuary, reached by a set of concrete steps. Inset panels featuring the Star of David and the tablets of the Ten Commandments inscribed in Hebrew add to the building's distinctive character.
Inside, the synagogue's two-story interior includes a balcony, which was reduced in size during the 1960s renovation. The congregation boasts seven Torahs, two of which were saved from the 1930 fire. The Ark, a focal point of the sanctuary, is composed of dark wood paneling and classical pilasters, with louvered doors leading to the cabinet where the scrolls are kept.
Visiting the B'nai Israel Synagogue is not just an opportunity to explore a historic building but also a chance to connect with a community that has weathered adversity and embraced change while remaining steadfast in their faith. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or someone seeking to understand the rich cultural tapestry of Council Bluffs, the B'nai Israel Synagogue offers a unique and enriching experience.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.