“If it’s Jewish, we have it!” That’s what a bright neon sign once declared outside an old Jewish bookstore. Now this relic graces the walls of the Capital Jewish Museum. This museum stands as a landmark near the Capitol. It explores Jewish Washington’s past, present, and future.
The Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum invites us to delve into a unique history. It is dedicated to the story of Jewish life in the nation’s capital region. It is the first museum in D.C. of its kind.
The Capital Jewish Museum’s story began in 1960. It started as the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington. In 1969, the original Adas Israel Synagogue faced demolition. WMATA headquarters threatened its existence. The Society stepped in to save it. They achieved landmark status and physically moved the building.
The museum connects communities. It encourages reflection. It inspires action. These pillars guide the museum’s mission. It prompts visitors to explore their role in making change.
The Capital Jewish Museum’s exhibits showcase a wide array of artifacts. These include a lace collar worn by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Also find a notebook used by Justice Louis Brandeis. A banner carried by lobbyist Hyman Bookbinder at the 1963 March on Washington is present. There is even a kippah from a White House Hanukkah celebration.
The museum’s location has shifted over time. The original Adas Israel Synagogue was built in 1876. It stood at 6th and G Streets NW. President Ulysses S. Grant attended its dedication. This marked the first Jewish service attended by a sitting president.
In the late 1960s, the synagogue faced demolition. It was saved and moved. Today, it resides within the Capitol Crossing development. This move allowed for expansion of its cultural purpose.
The Capital Jewish Museum incorporates the historic synagogue. The sanctuary is restored to its original appearance. It serves as the centerpiece. The museum also features a modern glass structure. This connects to the original synagogue.
Visitors are greeted with the question: “Who is Jewish Washington?” Interactive displays showcase photos of Jewish Washingtonians. These range from activists to Supreme Court Justices. The aim is to allow visitors to see themselves. It extends to those who wish to learn more.
The Capital Jewish Museum addresses the unique history. Jews settled in Washington and their lives in the capital. It also covers the ways American Jews have been part of the U.S. political system. Washington has a massive Jewish community. The museum felt responsible to teach the wider community. It also teaches the Jewish community about itself.
The Capital Jewish Museum’s exhibits connect the political history. It is tied to the city’s Jewish story. Relics of now-defunct Jewish institutions line the walls. The museum opened after a years-long construction. The original building was moved from its prior location.
Remember the museum’s goals. Connect, reflect, act. Consider how you can make an impact. As Esther Safran Foer said, “This is Washington. This is a place where important decisions are made. You can have an impact on these decisions.”