Seventeenth-century Bischheim a haven for Strasbourg’s Jewish community. Many Jews worked in Strasbourg. They lacked settlement rights there. So they lived with their families in Bischheim. This practice likely began in the early 1700s.
Bischheim’s Jewish history is rich and complex. It intertwines with the larger narrative of Jewish life in Alsace. The town’s strategic location near Strasbourg made it an ideal place for this community to flourish. In 1774 less than 40 Jewish families lived in Bischheim. This number doubled within a decade. By the mid-1800s 759 Jews called Bischheim home. The number gradually decreased to less than 300 by the start of the 20th century. The Holocaust tragically decimated the community. Half perished during that dark period.
The community’s resilience is remarkable. After the war they rebuilt. By 1959 52 Jewish families had returned to Bischheim. This shows the enduring spirit of the people. Their connection to their heritage was unbroken.
Cerf-Berr a prominent figure lived in Bischheim. He played a vital role in Jewish emancipation. His work built upon the writings of Moses Mendelsohn. Mendelsohn pleaded for improved conditions for European Jews. Cerf-Berr’s efforts influenced other leaders. They helped advance citizenship rights for French Jews. David Sintzheim Cerf-Berr’s brother-in-law became France’s first Chief Rabbi. He presided over Napoleon’s Sanhedrin. Chief Rabbi Isaac Baer another notable figure educated Zadoc Kahn in Bischheim. Kahn himself later became a Chief Rabbi.
Bischheim’s first synagogue was established around 1780 by Cerf Berr. It quickly became too small. A new synagogue was inaugurated in 1838. A Jewish school also existed with about 100 students. David Sintzheim’s mikveh was another important site. Sadly the synagogue was destroyed during World War II. It was rebuilt in 1959.
For a long time Bischheim Jews were buried in Rosenwiller and Ettendorf cemeteries. Since 1797 a cemetery exists between Bischheim and Hoenheim. It’s a poignant reminder of the community’s enduring presence. Today a mikveh and a museum dedicated to this history are open for visits. Reservations are needed to experience this important part of Bischheim’s heritage.
In 2024 paving stones were installed in Bischheim. They honor a family murdered in Oradour-sur-Glane. They also commemorate four Resistance members. These stones serve as lasting memorials. They remind us of the struggles and triumphs of the past. They also highlight the ongoing commitment to remembering. This stands as a testament to Bischheim’s enduring spirit.