Picture this. A grand Renaissance Revival building stands before you. This is the East Midwood Jewish Center. Its buff and red brick facade gleams. Two copper domes crown its majestic form.
The East Midwood Jewish Center is more than just a synagogue. It’s a living testament to the vibrant Jewish community of Brooklyn. Founded in 1924 by Dr Jacob R Schwartz a dentist concerned about a lack of Hebrew schools. This building which opened in 1929 cost a staggering $1 million. That’s about $18 million today.
The Center’s creation wasn’t without challenges. Initial plans placed it on Avenue L. Members preferred Ocean Avenue. The move to the current location required overcoming hurdles. High Holiday services were held in the partially complete structure in 1926. The cornerstone was laid a year prior.
Imagine the excitement as the building neared completion in 1929. It was designed to be more than a place of worship. It incorporated a synagogue auditorium kitchens a restaurant classrooms a gymnasium and even a swimming pool. For years it was the only synagogue in Brooklyn with a functioning pool.
The Great Depression brought financial hardship. Membership declined. The Center faced tough choices. Dues were increased teachers received endorsed notes instead of paychecks and even pews were sold. Yet the congregation persevered. By 1941 it boasted 1100 member families. In 1950 an adjoining school was built its enrollment peaking at nearly 1000 students.
The East Midwood Jewish Center is steeped in history. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was confirmed there. She was thirteen and the lack of bat mitzvah ceremonies at the time baffled her. The building remains architecturally unchanged since its construction a remarkable feat. In 2006 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places a testament to its architectural and historical significance.
The East Midwood Jewish Center is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a symbol of resilience faith and community. It’s a place where history unfolds and stories continue to be written. A place worth exploring.