Did you know that Congregation Tifereth Israel in Queens is more than a century old? It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Jewish immigrants in New York City. The synagogue’s story begins in the early 1900s. Ashkenazi Jews moved from Manhattan’s Lower East Side to Corona. They sought to establish a community. They founded Congregation Independent Chevra Tyfers Israel Anshei Corona around 1906 or 1907.
Initially, the synagogue was known as the “Home Street Synagogue”. This name reflected the original name of the street. The founders wanted a place for prayer and spiritual growth. They also wanted to bury their dead. The Articles of Incorporation highlighted these intentions.
Among the early members was Estée Lauder and her parents. They lived near the synagogue and owned a hardware store. Lauder’s early connection adds a touch of glamour to the synagogue’s history.
In 1911, the congregation built its own synagogue building. Crescent L. Varrone designed it. The design mirrored the narrow tenement synagogues of the Lower East Side. The building combined Gothic and Moorish architectural elements. It featured pointed-arched windows and a Star of David in colored glass. Originally, the exterior had wood clapboard siding. Over time stucco was added.
The synagogue also opened a yeshiva on 53rd Avenue. It provided religious education. However, the yeshiva closed in the 1970s. Madonna even lived there for a time.
As demographics changed, many Jewish residents moved to Long Island. By the 1990s, Congregation Tifereth Israel faced challenges. The membership dwindled. The building deteriorated. They struggled to afford repairs. Finding enough men for a prayer quorum was difficult.
A new chapter began in the 1990s. Bukharan Jews started moving to Corona. They began worshipping in Tifereth Israel’s basement. Disputes arose between the old congregation and the new Bukharan community. Lawsuits followed. Eventually, the Bukharan congregation took over the synagogue.
Despite the conflicts, efforts to preserve Congregation Tifereth Israel continued. The New York Landmarks Conservancy stepped in. They provided grants and assistance for restoration work. The synagogue received landmark status in 2008. This recognition brought additional funding for repairs.
Today, Congregation Tifereth Israel stands as the oldest surviving synagogue in Queens. It is the oldest synagogue building in Queens continuously used for worship. Restoration work has helped to revive its original appearance. The building’s wood clapboard siding and Moorish-style details have been brought back to life.
Walking around Congregation Tifereth Israel, you’re not just seeing a building. You are witnessing a story of community. You are seeing perseverance and the echoes of generations. It is a unique blend of architectural styles. The building stands proudly in its neighborhood. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and heritage.