A flash of insight: Congregation Bnai Israel stands as a testament to faith and community in Fleischmanns. This Conservative synagogue wasn’t always as you see it today. Its story is interwoven with the history of Jewish settlers in the Catskills.
In the late 19th century, Jews began arriving in the Catskills. Many initially tried farming. Soon, they discovered that the hotel business was more profitable. They catered to urban Jews seeking mountain vacations that respected their dietary needs. By 1918, six of these farmers formed Congregation Bnai Israel. They had previously met in each other’s homes for study.
Just a month later, they bought land for a dollar intending to construct a proper synagogue. Fundraising was a challenge. In 1919, they organized a ball attended by a thousand guests. It became legendary for its success. Affluent Jews contributed $3,500. This enabled construction to commence in 1920.
Local builders Crosby and Kelly erected the building. Their prior work included the Skene Memorial Library. The synagogue’s design reflects diverse influences. Its layout and Stars of David honored Orthodox traditions. The gable roofs and classical details echoed local Protestant churches. Uniquely, Congregation Bnai Israel features an exposed truss ceiling. This is a nod to Episcopalian design.
Originally an Orthodox synagogue, Congregation Bnai Israel has evolved into a Conservative congregation. It holds the distinction of being the only synagogue in the Catskills with an exposed truss roof. Moreover, it is the sole synagogue in Delaware County listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Later, the sanctuary was partitioned creating a community room, a kitchen, and a vestibule. The original rear wall’s finishings were preserved. They were reinstalled in the community room.
Look closely at the exterior. Flat pilasters with Doric capitals grace the south and side elevations. These support an architrave with a wide frieze. Lancet arch frames surround the windows on the south façade. Colored glass fills the lower panes. The upper panes feature a Star of David design.
Inside, note the tripartite ark on the north wall. It rests on a balustraded platform. Corinthian columns support an entablature. Carved lions sit atop either side projection. The center section houses the Torah. It is adorned with a round-arched panel depicting the Ten Commandments.
The bimah stands before the ark. Heavy posts with finial carvings mark its corners. Foliate moldings embellish the pews. Exposed wooden trusses support the ceiling.
Nearly all original Catskills synagogues were renovated district schools. These buildings mirrored the gable-facing façades of New York District Schools. They often featured Greek Revival or Neo-Classical styles.
Congregation Bnai Israel stands as a symbol of resilience. It represents adaptation and community spirit. From its humble beginnings to its present form, it remains a cherished landmark. Bernard Rosenberg, descendant of a founding member, successfully nominated the synagogue to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. This ensured its preservation for generations to come.