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{{short description|Wikipedia list article}}
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[[File:Touro_Synagogue,_Newport,_Rhode_Island.jpg|thumb|[[Touro Synagogue]], Newport, Rhode Island (founded c.1658, built 1759–63)]]
[[File:Touro_Synagogue,_Newport,_Rhode_Island.jpg|thumb|[[Touro Synagogue]], Newport, Rhode Island (founded c. 1658, built 1759–63)]]
[[File:Kahal_Kadosh_Beth_Elohim_Synagogue,_Charleston,_SC_(49330765257).jpg|thumb|[[Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue]], Charleston, South Carolina (founded 1749, built 1840–41)]]
[[File:Kahal_Kadosh_Beth_Elohim_Synagogue,_Charleston,_SC_(49330765257).jpg|thumb|[[Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue]], Charleston, South Carolina (founded 1749, built 1840–41)]]
[[File:Congregation Shearith Israel 001.JPG|thumb|[[Congregation Shearith Israel]], New York, New York (founded 1654, built 1896–97)]]
[[File:Congregation Shearith Israel 001.JPG|thumb|[[Congregation Shearith Israel]], New York, New York (founded 1654, built 1896–97)]]


Synagogues may be considered "oldest" based on different criteria such as oldest surviving building or oldest congregation. Some older synagogue buildings have been in continuous use as synagogues, while others have been converted to other purposes, and a few, such as the [[Touro Synagogue]], were shuttered for many decades. Some early established congregations have been the in continuous existence, while other early congregations have ceased to exist.
Synagogues may be considered "oldest" based on different criteria such as oldest surviving building or oldest congregation. Some older synagogue buildings have been in continuous use as synagogues, while others have been converted to other purposes, and a few, such as the [[Touro Synagogue]], were shuttered for many decades. Some early established congregations have been in continuous existence, while other early congregations have ceased to exist.


==Oldest congregations==
==Oldest congregations==


===Sephardi congregations===
===Sephardi congregations===

All of the oldest congregations in the new world were founded by [[Sephardi Jews]] and followed the Sephardic liturgy.
All of the oldest congregations in the new world were founded by [[Sephardi Jews]] and followed the Sephardic liturgy.
[[File:GA_Savannah_HD_Mickve_sq_pano01.jpg|thumb|[[Congregation Mickve Israel]], Savannah, Georgia (founded 1733, built 1876–78)]]
[[File:GA_Savannah_HD_Mickve_sq_pano01.jpg|thumb|[[Congregation Mickve Israel]], Savannah, Georgia (founded 1733, built 1876–78)]]
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* [[Congregation Mikveh Israel]] of Philadelphia was organized in the 1740s.<ref name="American Judaism 2004, p. 19"/>
* [[Congregation Mikveh Israel]] of Philadelphia was organized in the 1740s.<ref name="American Judaism 2004, p. 19"/>
* [[Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue]], Charleston, South Carolina, was founded in the 1740s.<ref name="American Judaism 2004, p. 19"/>
* [[Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue]], Charleston, South Carolina, was founded in the 1740s.<ref name="American Judaism 2004, p. 19"/>
* Kahal Kadosh Beth Shalom, [[Richmond, Virginia]], was founded in 1789. In 1898, it merged with [[Congregation Beth Ahabah]], which was founded in 1841.
* [[Kahal Kadosh Beth Shalome]], [[Richmond, Virginia]], was founded in 1789. In 1898, it merged with [[Congregation Beth Ahabah]], which was founded in 1841.
* The [[St. Thomas Synagogue]] in the [[United States Virgin Islands]] was founded in 1796.
* The [[St. Thomas Synagogue]] in the [[United States Virgin Islands]] was founded in 1796.
* Nefutzoth Yehudah (Congregation Dispersed of Judah) in [[New Orleans, Louisiana]], was founded in 1846. In 1881, it merged with the Ashkenazic congregation Shanarai-Chasset (Congregation Gates of Mercy) to form [[Touro Synagogue (New Orleans)|Touro Synagogue]]. The congregation joined the Reform movement in 1891.<ref name="tourosynagogue.com">"[http://www.tourosynagogue.com/about/our-history/ The History of Our Congregation]". ''Touro Synagogue''.</ref>
* Nefutzoth Yehudah (Congregation Dispersed of Judah) in [[New Orleans, Louisiana]], was founded in 1846. In 1881, it merged with the Ashkenazic congregation Shanarai-Chasset (Congregation Gates of Mercy) to form [[Touro Synagogue (New Orleans)|Touro Synagogue]]. The congregation joined the Reform movement in 1891.<ref name="tourosynagogue.com">"[http://www.tourosynagogue.com/about/our-history/ Our History]". ''Touro Synagogue''.</ref>


===Ashkenazi congregations===
===Ashkenazi congregations===
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Until 1795, all documented congregations in the United States followed the [[Sephardic]] [[minhag]]. However, many included [[Ashkenazi]] members as well.
Until 1795, all documented congregations in the United States followed the [[Sephardic]] [[minhag]]. However, many included [[Ashkenazi]] members as well.


* There are a few references to an Ashkenazi Beth Elohim in Charleston prior to 1791, although this may have been a subgroup within the Sephardic Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim rather than a fully independent congregation <ref>[[Jonathan Sarna|Sarna, Jonathan]]. ''American Judaism''. [[Yale University Press]], 2004. pp. 18ff, 56ff.</ref>
* There are a few references to an Ashkenazi Beth Elohim in Charleston prior to 1791, although this may have been a subgroup within the Sephardic Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim rather than a fully independent congregation<ref>[[Jonathan Sarna|Sarna, Jonathan]]. ''American Judaism''. [[Yale University Press]], 2004. pp. 18ff, 56ff.</ref>
* The first Ashkenazic rite synagogue in the US was founded in 1761 in [[Easton, Pennsylvania]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Queen II |first=Edward L. |title=The Encyclopedia of American Religious History |last2=Prothero |first2=Stephen R. |last3=Shattuck Jr. |first3=Gardiner H. |publisher=Proseworks |year=1996 |isbn=0-8160-3545-8 |volume=2 |location=New York |pages=487 |author-link2=Stephen Prothero}}</ref>
* [[Congregation Rodeph Shalom (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)]], founded in 1795, is usually considered the oldest existing Ashkenazi congregation in the United States.
* [[Congregation Rodeph Shalom (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)]], founded in 1795, is usually considered the oldest existing Ashkenazi congregation in the United States.
* [[K.K. Bene Israel]] in [[Cincinnati, Ohio]], now known as the [[Rockdale Temple]] (1824) is the oldest congregation west of the [[Allegheny Mountains]].
* [[K.K. Bene Israel]] in [[Cincinnati, Ohio]], now known as the [[Rockdale Temple]] (1824) is the oldest congregation west of the [[Allegheny Mountains]].
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This list includes only buildings originally built as synagogues that are still standing. Some continue in use as Jewish houses of worship; others have been adaptively reused. Fewer than 100 purpose-built synagogues constructed prior to 1900 remain standing.<ref name=Gordon>Gordon, Mark W., ''[http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/american_jewish_history/v084/84.1gordon_tab01.html Rediscovering Jewish Infrastructure: Update on United States Nineteenth Century Synagogues]''. ''American Jewish History'', 84.1, 1996, p. 11–27. [http://www.ajhs.org/rediscovering-jewish-infrastructure 2019 article update].</ref> A portion of these are highlighted below.
This list includes only buildings originally built as synagogues that are still standing. Some continue in use as Jewish houses of worship; others have been adaptively reused. Fewer than 100 purpose-built synagogues constructed prior to 1900 remain standing.<ref name=Gordon>Gordon, Mark W., ''[http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/american_jewish_history/v084/84.1gordon_tab01.html Rediscovering Jewish Infrastructure: Update on United States Nineteenth Century Synagogues]''. ''American Jewish History'', 84.1, 1996, p. 11–27. [http://www.ajhs.org/rediscovering-jewish-infrastructure 2019 article update].</ref> A portion of these are highlighted below.



[[File:Plum_Street_Temple_1.jpg|thumb|[[Plum Street Temple]], Cincinnati, Ohio (1865–66)]]
[[File:Plum_Street_Temple_1.jpg|thumb|[[Plum Street Temple]], Cincinnati, Ohio (1865–66)]]
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* [[Moses Montefiore Congregation]], Bloomington, Illinois (1889)
* [[Moses Montefiore Congregation]], Bloomington, Illinois (1889)
* [[Ligonier Historical Museum|Ahavas Sholem]], Ligonier, Indiana (1889)
* [[Ligonier Historical Museum|Ahavas Sholem]], Ligonier, Indiana (1889)
* Tifereth Israel, [[Alliance Colony]], [[New Jersey]] (1889)
* Tifereth Israel, [[Alliance Colony]], [[New Jersey]] (1889)<ref>https://www.acreboot.org/sica</ref>
* [[Temple Beth Tefilloh (Brunswick, Georgia) ]](1889–90)
* [[Temple Beth Tefilloh (Brunswick, Georgia) ]](1889–90)
* [[B'nai Israel Temple (Salt Lake City, Utah)|B'nai Israel Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah]] (1890–91)
* [[B'nai Israel Temple (Salt Lake City, Utah)|B'nai Israel Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah]] (1890–91)
* [[Shaarai Shomayim (Lancaster, Pennsylvania) ]] (1895–96)
* [[Shaarai Shomayim (Lancaster, Pennsylvania) ]] (1895–96)
* [[Ahavath Beth Israel (Boise, Idaho)|Ahavath Beth Israel, Boise, Idaho]] (1895–96)<ref name=synarch>Stolzman, Henry; Stolzman, Daniel ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=tfJNHoiMDSoC&pg=PA131&dq=%22Ahavath+Beth+Israel%22&hl=en&ei=zl_pTeH9H9G1tweRkIW3AQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CDMQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=%22Ahavath%20Beth%20Israel%22&f=false Synagogue Architecture in America: Faith, Spirit & Identity]''. The Images Publishing Group Pty Ltd. 2004.</ref>
* [[Ahavath Beth Israel (Boise, Idaho)|Ahavath Beth Israel, Boise, Idaho]] (1895–96)<ref name=synarch>Stolzman, Henry; Stolzman, Daniel ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=tfJNHoiMDSoC&dq=%22Ahavath+Beth+Israel%22&pg=PA131 Synagogue Architecture in America: Faith, Spirit & Identity]''. The Images Publishing Group Pty Ltd. 2004.</ref>
* [[Rosenhayn Synagogue]], [[Rosenhayn, New Jersey|Rosenhayn]], New Jersey (c.1898)
* [[Rosenhayn Synagogue]], [[Rosenhayn, New Jersey|Rosenhayn]], New Jersey (c.1898)
* [[Temple B'nai Sholom (Huntsville, Alabama) ]] (1898–99)
* [[Temple B'nai Sholom (Huntsville, Alabama) ]] (1898–99)


==By state==
==By state==

[[File:Adas Israel Synagogue.JPG|thumb|[[Adas Israel Congregation (Washington, D.C.)|Adas Israel]], Washington, D.C. (1876)]]
[[File:Adas Israel Synagogue.JPG|thumb|[[Adas Israel Congregation (Washington, D.C.)|Adas Israel]], Washington, D.C. (1876)]]


===Alabama===
===Alabama===

* [[Congregation Sha'arai Shomayim (Mobile, Alabama)|Congregation Sha'arai Shomayim]], located in [[Mobile, Alabama|Mobile]], the oldest congregation in Alabama, was formally organized on January 25, 1844. Their first synagogue was Emanuel Street Synagogue, dedicated on December 27, 1846. The current Springhill Avenue Temple is their fifth location.<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/mobilealabama.html Shaarai Shomayim (Gates of Heaven)]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* [[Congregation Sha'arai Shomayim (Mobile, Alabama)|Congregation Sha'arai Shomayim]], located in [[Mobile, Alabama|Mobile]], the oldest congregation in Alabama, was formally organized on January 25, 1844. Their first synagogue was Emanuel Street Synagogue, dedicated on December 27, 1846. The current Springhill Avenue Temple is their fifth location.<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/mobilealabama.html Shaarai Shomayim (Gates of Heaven)]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>


===Alaska===
===Alaska===

* Congregation Beth Sholom was first organized on September 5, 1958, in Anchorage.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20110726070239/http://www.frozenchosen.org/cbs/aboutus/history/ About Us]". ''Congregation Beth Sholom''. Archived from the [http://www.frozenchosen.org/cbs/aboutus/history/ original] on July 26, 2011.</ref>
* Congregation Beth Sholom was first organized on September 5, 1958, in Anchorage.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20110726070239/http://www.frozenchosen.org/cbs/aboutus/history/ About Us]". ''Congregation Beth Sholom''. Archived from the [http://www.frozenchosen.org/cbs/aboutus/history/ original] on July 26, 2011.</ref>


===Arizona===
===Arizona===

* Emanu-El dedicated the first synagogue in the Arizona Territory on October 3, 1910, in Tucson. The congregation stopped holding services there in 1949. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and currently houses the Jewish Heritage Center of the Southwest.<ref>"[http://www.nmajh.org/exhibitions/postcards/cards/04.htm Stone Avenue Temple: Tucson AZ] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080907065413/http://www.nmajh.org/exhibitions/postcards/cards/04.htm |date=2008-09-07 }}". ''Jewish Postcards''. National Museum of American Jewish History.</ref>
* Emanu-El dedicated the first synagogue in the Arizona Territory on October 3, 1910, in Tucson. The congregation stopped holding services there in 1949. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and currently houses the Jewish Heritage Center of the Southwest.<ref>"[http://www.nmajh.org/exhibitions/postcards/cards/04.htm Stone Avenue Temple: Tucson AZ] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080907065413/http://www.nmajh.org/exhibitions/postcards/cards/04.htm |date=2008-09-07 }}". ''Jewish Postcards''. National Museum of American Jewish History.</ref>


===Arkansas===
===Arkansas===

* Congregation B'nai Israel was founded in [[Little Rock]] in 1866.<ref>Adler, Cyrus; Currick, M. C. "[http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=1781&letter=A Arkansas]". ''Jewish Encyclopedia''. 1906.</ref><ref>'[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/littlerockarkansas.html Arkansas Jewish History]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* Congregation B'nai Israel was founded in [[Little Rock]] in 1866.<ref>Adler, Cyrus; [[Max C. Currick|Currick, M. C.]] "[http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=1781&letter=A Arkansas]". ''Jewish Encyclopedia''. 1906.</ref><ref>'[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/littlerockarkansas.html Arkansas Jewish History]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>


===California===
===California===

* [[Temple Israel (Stockton, California)]], founded 1851. Congregation has been in continuous existence, housed in four different locations over time.
* [[Temple Israel (Stockton, California)]], founded 1851. Congregation has been in continuous existence, housed in four different locations over time.
* The two next oldest congregations in California are [[Congregation Emanu-El (San Francisco)|Emanu-El]] and [[Congregation Sherith Israel (San Francisco, California)|Sherith Israel]], in San Francisco. Both were founded in 1851. The two synagogues were founded simultaneously because the city's Jews could not agree on whether to follow the prayer customs of the Polish or German Jews. Emanu-El was therefore, founded as the congregation of the German Jews and Sherith Israel as the congregation of the Polish Jews.<ref>[[Jonathan Sarna|Sarna, Jonathan]]. ''American Judaism''. [[Yale University Press]], 2004. p. 73</ref>
* The two next oldest congregations in California are [[Congregation Emanu-El (San Francisco)|Emanu-El]] and [[Congregation Sherith Israel (San Francisco, California)|Sherith Israel]], in San Francisco. Both were founded in 1851. The two synagogues were founded simultaneously because the city's Jews could not agree on whether to follow the prayer customs of the Polish or German Jews. Emanu-El was therefore, founded as the congregation of the German Jews and Sherith Israel as the congregation of the Polish Jews.<ref>[[Jonathan Sarna|Sarna, Jonathan]]. ''American Judaism''. [[Yale University Press]], 2004. p. 73</ref>
* [[Congregation B'nai Israel (Sacramento, California)]] is the oldest congregation in [[Sacramento, California]], tracing its history back to September 2, 1852,<ref name="B'nai History">Panneton, Judie. "[https://web.archive.org/web/20120902143545/http://www.bnais.com/history.cfm History – How Beautiful is Our Heritage: 160 years and Still Going Strong]". Congregation B'nai Israel. Archived from the [http://www.bnais.com/history.cfm original] on September 2, 2012.</ref> making it the first synagogue owned by a congregation west of the Mississippi River.
* [[Congregation B'nai Israel (Sacramento, California)]] is the oldest congregation in [[Sacramento, California]], tracing its history back to September 2, 1852,<ref name="B'nai History">Panneton, Judie. "[https://web.archive.org/web/20120902143545/http://www.bnais.com/history.cfm History – How Beautiful is Our Heritage: 160 years and Still Going Strong]". Congregation B'nai Israel. Archived from the [http://www.bnais.com/history.cfm original] on September 2, 2012.</ref> making it the first synagogue owned by a congregation west of the Mississippi River.
* [[Temple Sinai (Oakland, California)]], founded in 1875, oldest Jewish congregation in the [[East Bay]] ([[San Francisco Bay Area]]).
* [[Congregation Beth Israel (San Diego, California)]]'s 1889 building is the second oldest extant synagogue in California.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Congregation Beth Israel (San Diego, California)]]'s 1889 building is the second oldest extant synagogue in California.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Temple Beth Sholom (San Leandro, California)]]'s 1889 building is the oldest extant synagogue in California.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Temple Beth Sholom (San Leandro, California)]]'s 1889 building is the oldest extant synagogue in California.<ref name=Gordon/>


===Colorado===
===Colorado===

* [[Temple Aaron]] in [[Trinidad, Colorado]], built in 1889.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.historycolorado.org/story/preservation/2020/12/10/trinidads-temple-aaron-looks-past-secure-its-future |title=Trinidad's Temple Aaron Looks to the Past to Secure Its Future |last=Grant |first=Kim |date=2020-12-10 |website=History Colorado |publisher= |access-date=2021-08-26 |quote=}}</ref>
* [[Temple Aaron]] in [[Trinidad, Colorado]], built in 1889.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.historycolorado.org/story/preservation/2020/12/10/trinidads-temple-aaron-looks-past-secure-its-future |title=Trinidad's Temple Aaron Looks to the Past to Secure Its Future |last=Grant |first=Kim |date=2020-12-10 |website=History Colorado |publisher= |access-date=2021-08-26 |quote=}}</ref>
* Temple Emanuel Synagogue in [[Pueblo, Colorado]], built in 1900, is the city's oldest synagogue, according to the synagogue itself.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Temple Emanuel Pueblo|title=Our History|url=https://templeemanuelpueblo.net/history|access-date=16 October 2020|website=templeemanuelpueblo.net|language=en-US}}</ref> The building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Waller|first=Allyson|date=15 October 2020|title=White Supremacist Pleads Guilty to Plotting to Bomb Colorado Synagogue|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/15/us/richard-holzer-synagogue-bomb.html|access-date=16 October 2020|issn=0362-4331}}</ref>
* Temple Emanuel Synagogue in [[Pueblo, Colorado]], built in 1900, is the city's oldest synagogue, according to the synagogue itself.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Temple Emanuel Pueblo|title=Our History|url=https://templeemanuelpueblo.net/history|access-date=16 October 2020|website=templeemanuelpueblo.net|language=en-US}}</ref> The building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Waller|first=Allyson|date=15 October 2020|title=White Supremacist Pleads Guilty to Plotting to Bomb Colorado Synagogue|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/15/us/richard-holzer-synagogue-bomb.html|access-date=16 October 2020|issn=0362-4331}}</ref>
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===Connecticut===
===Connecticut===

*[[Congregation Mishkan Israel]] ([[Hamden, Connecticut]]) was founded in 1840 in [[New Haven]]. Mishkan Israel and [[Congregation Beth Israel (West Hartford, Connecticut)]] were both incorporated in 1843, the year the Connecticut legislature first permitted public worship by Jews in the state.<ref>[[Kerry Olitzky|Olitzky, Kerry M.]]; Raphael, Marc Lee. ''The American Synagogue: A Historical Dictionary and Sourcebook'', [[Greenwood Publishing Group|Greenwood Press]]. June 30, 1996. pp. 76–80.</ref>
*[[Congregation Mishkan Israel]] ([[Hamden, Connecticut]]) was founded in 1840 in [[New Haven]]. Mishkan Israel and [[Congregation Beth Israel (West Hartford, Connecticut)]] were both incorporated in 1843, the year the Connecticut legislature first permitted public worship by Jews in the state.<ref>[[Kerry Olitzky|Olitzky, Kerry M.]]; Raphael, Marc Lee. ''The American Synagogue: A Historical Dictionary and Sourcebook'', [[Greenwood Publishing Group|Greenwood Press]]. June 30, 1996. pp. 76–80.</ref>
* [[Temple Beth Israel (Hartford, Connecticut)]]'s 1875–76 building is the oldest in the state.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Temple Beth Israel (Hartford, Connecticut)]]'s 1875–76 building is the oldest in the state.<ref name=Gordon/>


===Delaware===
===Delaware===

* [http://www.akse.org Adas Kodesch Shel Emeth] in [[Wilmington, Delaware]], is the oldest congregation in the state. It was formed from the merger in 1957 of the Orthodox Adas Kodesch Congregation, which was established in 1885, and the Chesed Shel Emeth Congregation. It is usually referred to simply as Adas Kodesch and is billed as "The First Synagogue in the First State".<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/wilmingtondelaware.html Ohabe Shalom – Lovers of Peace]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* [http://www.akse.org Adas Kodesch Shel Emeth] in [[Wilmington, Delaware]], is the oldest congregation in the state. It was formed from the merger in 1957 of the Orthodox Adas Kodesch Congregation, which was established in 1885, and the Chesed Shel Emeth Congregation. It is usually referred to simply as Adas Kodesch and is billed as "The First Synagogue in the First State".<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/wilmingtondelaware.html Ohabe Shalom – Lovers of Peace]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>


===District of Columbia===
===District of Columbia===

* [[Washington Hebrew Congregation]], congregation founded in 1852.<ref name= dc>"[https://www.jhsgw.org/history/synagogue Illustrated History of 1876 Synagogue]". ''Lillian and Albert Small Jewish Museum''. Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington.</ref>
* [[Washington Hebrew Congregation]], congregation founded in 1852.<ref name= dc>"[https://www.jhsgw.org/history/synagogue Illustrated History of 1876 Synagogue]". ''Lillian and Albert Small Jewish Museum''. Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington.</ref>
* [[Adas Israel Congregation (Washington, D.C.)|Adas Israel Congregation]]'s original building, now known as the [[Lillian & Albert Small Jewish Museum|Lillian and Albert Small Jewish Museum]], was built in 1876, after the congregation split from Washington Hebrew Congregation over the issue of organ music during services. Originally located at 6th and G Streets, the dedication was attended by [[President of the United States|President]] [[Ulysses S. Grant]] on June 9, 1876.<ref name= dc/> The building has been relocated several times due to redevelopment and now sits at 3rd and F Streets NW.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://wamu.org/story/19/01/09/yes-that-was-d-c-s-oldest-synagogue-moving-down-the-street-again/|title=Yes, That Was D.C.'s Oldest Synagogue Moving Down The Street (Again)|website=WAMU|language=en|access-date=2019-07-03}}</ref>
* [[Adas Israel Congregation (Washington, D.C.)|Adas Israel Congregation]]'s original building, now known as the [[Lillian & Albert Small Jewish Museum|Lillian and Albert Small Jewish Museum]], was built in 1876, after the congregation split from Washington Hebrew Congregation over the issue of organ music during services. Originally located at 6th and G Streets, the dedication was attended by [[President of the United States|President]] [[Ulysses S. Grant]] on June 9, 1876.<ref name= dc/> The building has been relocated several times due to redevelopment and now sits at 3rd and F Streets NW.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://wamu.org/story/19/01/09/yes-that-was-d-c-s-oldest-synagogue-moving-down-the-street-again/|title=Yes, That Was D.C.'s Oldest Synagogue Moving Down The Street (Again)|website=WAMU|language=en|access-date=2019-07-03}}</ref>


===Florida===
===Florida===

[[File:Templebethel.jpg|thumb|Temple Beth-El, Pensacola, Florida (1933)]]
[[File:Templebethel.jpg|thumb|Temple Beth-El, Pensacola, Florida (1933)]]
* [[Ahavath Chesed]] in Jacksonville, and [[Temple Beth-El (Pensacola, Florida)|Temple Beth-El]] in Pensacola each has claims to being the oldest Jewish congregation in Florida. The Jacksonville congregation was meeting for prayer by 1867, but appears to have incorporated later than Pensacola which dedicated its first building in 1876, well before Jacksonville's 1882 building. The current synagogue building in Pensacola opened in 1933.<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/pensacolaflorida.html Pensacola, Florida]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* [[Ahavath Chesed]] in Jacksonville, and [[Temple Beth-El (Pensacola, Florida)|Temple Beth-El]] in Pensacola each has claims to being the oldest Jewish congregation in Florida. The Jacksonville congregation was meeting for prayer by 1867, but appears to have incorporated later than Pensacola which dedicated its first building in 1876, well before Jacksonville's 1882 building. The current synagogue building in Pensacola opened in 1933.<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/pensacolaflorida.html Pensacola, Florida]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
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===Georgia===
===Georgia===

* [[Congregation Mickve Israel]] of Savannah, Georgia was organized in 1733.
* [[Congregation Mickve Israel]] of Savannah, Georgia was organized in 1733.
* [[Congregation of B'nai Israel Synagogue]] of Augusta, Georgia, was organized in 1846, and its 1869 building is still present on Telfair Street in downtown Augusta and is currently being restored as the future home of the Augusta Jewish Museum.
* [[Congregation of B'nai Israel Synagogue]] of Augusta, Georgia, was organized in 1846, and its 1869 building is still present on Telfair Street in downtown Augusta and is currently being restored as the future home of the Augusta Jewish Museum.
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===Hawaii===
===Hawaii===

* [[Temple Emanu-El (Honolulu, Hawaii)|Temple Emanu-El]] dates back to 1938 when 35 Jewish families on [[Oahu]] formed the Honolulu Jewish Community. In 1939, in cooperation with the Jewish Welfare Board, a small chapel on Young Street was leased and converted into a Jewish Community Center (JCC), which also served as Honolulu's first permanent synagogue.<ref>"[https://shaloha.com/content/history-jews-hawaii-kalakaua-torah A History of Jews in Hawaii & the Kalakaua Torah]". ''Temple Emanu-El''.</ref>
* [[Temple Emanu-El (Honolulu, Hawaii)|Temple Emanu-El]] dates back to 1938 when 35 Jewish families on [[Oahu]] formed the Honolulu Jewish Community. In 1939, in cooperation with the Jewish Welfare Board, a small chapel on Young Street was leased and converted into a Jewish Community Center (JCC), which also served as Honolulu's first permanent synagogue.<ref>"[https://shaloha.com/content/history-jews-hawaii-kalakaua-torah A History of Jews in Hawaii & the Kalakaua Torah]". ''Temple Emanu-El''.</ref>


===Idaho===
===Idaho===

* [[Ahavath Beth Israel (Boise, Idaho)|Ahavath Beth Israel]], Boise, Idaho (1895–96).<ref name=synarch /> The synagogue was built for Beth Israel, founded in 1895. In the 1980s, the congregation was formed as a merger of Congregation Beth Israel and Ahavath Israel, founded in 1912.
* [[Ahavath Beth Israel (Boise, Idaho)|Ahavath Beth Israel]], Boise, Idaho (1895–96).<ref name=synarch /> The synagogue was built for Beth Israel, founded in 1895. In the 1980s, the congregation was formed as a merger of Congregation Beth Israel and Ahavath Israel, founded in 1912.


===Illinois===
===Illinois===

* [[KAM Isaiah Israel]] merged several older congregations in [[Chicago]]. The oldest congregation of these was Kehillat Anshe Maariv, which was founded in 1847.
* [[KAM Isaiah Israel]] merged several older congregations in [[Chicago]]. The oldest congregation of these was Kehillat Anshe Maariv, which was founded in 1847.
*[[Congregation Anshai Emeth]], [[Peoria, Illinois|Peoria]] is a Reform congregation founded in 1859 and continuing to the present.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.anshaiemeth.org/|title=Home|website=Congregation Anshai Emeth|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
*[[Congregation Anshai Emeth]], [[Peoria, Illinois|Peoria]] is a Reform congregation founded in 1859 and continuing to the present.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.anshaiemeth.org/|title=Home|website=Congregation Anshai Emeth|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
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===Indiana===
===Indiana===

* [[Congregation Achduth Vesholom]] of Fort Wayne was formed in 1848.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20130419044144/http://archive.jta.org/article/1948/02/27/3013204/oldest-synagogue-in-indiana-celebrates-100th-anniversary-special-sermons-scheduled Oldest Synagogue in Indiana Celebrates 100th Anniversary; Special Sermons Scheduled]". ''Jewish News Archives''. February 27, 1948. Archived from the [http://archive.jta.org/article/1948/02/27/3013204/oldest-synagogue-in-indiana-celebrates-100th-anniversary-special-sermons-scheduled original] on April 19, 2013.</ref>
* [[Congregation Achduth Vesholom]] of Fort Wayne was formed in 1848.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20130419044144/http://archive.jta.org/article/1948/02/27/3013204/oldest-synagogue-in-indiana-celebrates-100th-anniversary-special-sermons-scheduled Oldest Synagogue in Indiana Celebrates 100th Anniversary; Special Sermons Scheduled]". ''Jewish News Archives''. February 27, 1948. Archived from the [http://archive.jta.org/article/1948/02/27/3013204/oldest-synagogue-in-indiana-celebrates-100th-anniversary-special-sermons-scheduled original] on April 19, 2013.</ref>
* [[Temple Israel (Lafayette, Indiana)]] was founded in 1849. Its 1867 building is the oldest in the state.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Temple Israel (Lafayette, Indiana)]] was founded in 1849. Its 1867 building is the oldest in the state.<ref name=Gordon/>


===Iowa===
===Iowa===

* [[Temple Emanuel (Davenport, Iowa)|Temple Emanuel]] of Davenport was formed as B'nai Israel Congregation on October 21, 1861.<ref>Baker, Deirdre Cox. "[http://qctimes.com/news/local/article_3f3774ac-6648-11e0-b014-001cc4c002e0.html Temple Emanuel celebrates 150 years]". ''The Quad City Times''. April 14, 2011.</ref>
* [[Temple Emanuel (Davenport, Iowa)|Temple Emanuel]] of Davenport was formed as B'nai Israel Congregation on October 21, 1861.<ref>Baker, Deirdre Cox. "[http://qctimes.com/news/local/article_3f3774ac-6648-11e0-b014-001cc4c002e0.html Temple Emanuel celebrates 150 years]". ''The Quad City Times''. April 14, 2011.</ref>
* B'nai Israel Congregation, Keokuk, Iowa. First permanent Jewish house of worship in Iowa, 1877.<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/keokukiowa.html B'nai Israel Congregation – First Permanent Jewish House of Worship in Iowa]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* B'nai Israel Congregation, Keokuk, Iowa. First permanent Jewish house of worship in Iowa, 1877.<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/keokukiowa.html B'nai Israel Congregation – First Permanent Jewish House of Worship in Iowa]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>


===Kentucky===
===Kentucky===

* [[Congregation Adath Israel Brith Sholom]], founded 1842, is the oldest congregation in Kentucky.
* [[Congregation Adath Israel Brith Sholom]], founded 1842, is the oldest congregation in Kentucky.
* [[Temple Adath Israel (Owensboro, Kentucky)|Temple Adath Israel]]'s 1877 building in [[Owensboro, Kentucky]], is the oldest in the state.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Temple Adath Israel (Owensboro, Kentucky)|Temple Adath Israel]]'s 1877 building in [[Owensboro, Kentucky]], is the oldest in the state.<ref name=Gordon/>


===Kansas===
===Kansas===

* Temple B'nai Jeshurun, founded in 1859, in [[Leavenworth, Kansas]], is the oldest congregation in the state.<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/leavenworthkansas.html Temple B'Nai Jeshurun]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* Temple B'nai Jeshurun, founded in 1859, in [[Leavenworth, Kansas]], is the oldest congregation in the state.<ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/leavenworthkansas.html Temple B'Nai Jeshurun]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>


===Louisiana===
===Louisiana===

[[File:JacksonAvMonkey18Oct2008.jpg|right|thumb|Shaare Tefilah, New Orleans, Louisiana (1860–65)]]
[[File:JacksonAvMonkey18Oct2008.jpg|right|thumb|Shaare Tefilah, New Orleans, Louisiana (1860–65)]]
*[[Touro Synagogue (New Orleans)|Touro Synagogue]] in [[New Orleans, Louisiana]], is the oldest congregation in the state. Touro Synagogue traces its origins back to Shanarai-Chasset (Congregation Gates of Mercy), which was founded in New Orleans in 1828.<ref name="tourosynagogue.com"/><ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/neworleansla1.html Shangarai Chasset: Gates of Mercy Synagogue: First permanent Jewish House of Worship in the State of Louisiana]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
*[[Touro Synagogue (New Orleans)|Touro Synagogue]] in [[New Orleans, Louisiana]], is the oldest congregation in the state. Touro Synagogue traces its origins back to Shanarai-Chasset (Congregation Gates of Mercy), which was founded in New Orleans in 1828.<ref name="tourosynagogue.com"/><ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/neworleansla1.html Shangarai Chasset: Gates of Mercy Synagogue: First permanent Jewish House of Worship in the State of Louisiana]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
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===Maine===
===Maine===

* [[Congregation Beth Israel (Bangor, Maine)|Congregation Beth Israel of Bangor]], formally organized in 1888, is the oldest congregation in Bangor and Maine.
* [[Congregation Beth Israel (Bangor, Maine)|Congregation Beth Israel of Bangor]], formally organized in 1888, is the oldest congregation in Bangor and Maine.
* [[Congregation Shaarey Tphiloh]] is the oldest congregation in [[Portland, Maine|Portland]], founded in 1904.<ref>[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/bangormaine.html Bangor, Maine: Congregation Beth Israel 1897]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* [[Congregation Shaarey Tphiloh]] is the oldest congregation in [[Portland, Maine|Portland]], founded in 1904.<ref>[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/bangormaine.html Bangor, Maine: Congregation Beth Israel 1897]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>


===Maryland===
===Maryland===

* [[Baltimore Hebrew Congregation]], incorporated in 1830, is the oldest congregation in [[Maryland]].
* [[Baltimore Hebrew Congregation]], incorporated in 1830, is the oldest congregation in [[Maryland]].
* [[Congregation Shearith Israel (Baltimore, Maryland)]], founded 1851, remaining Orthodox since its founding.
* [[Lloyd Street Synagogue]], located in [[Baltimore]], is the oldest synagogue building in Maryland.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Lloyd Street Synagogue]], located in [[Baltimore]], is the oldest synagogue building in Maryland.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[B'er Chayim Temple]] in [[Cumberland, Maryland|Cumberland]] was founded during the [[American Civil War|Civil War]], and its current building was constructed in 1865–67. It is the oldest continuously operating Maryland synagogue.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[B'er Chayim Temple]] in [[Cumberland, Maryland|Cumberland]] was founded during the [[American Civil War|Civil War]], and its current building was constructed in 1865–67. It is the oldest continuously operating Maryland synagogue.<ref name=Gordon/>


===Massachusetts===
===Massachusetts===

[[File:600 Columbus Ave Boston.jpg|thumb|Temple Israel, Boston (1884–85)]]
[[File:600 Columbus Ave Boston.jpg|thumb|Temple Israel, Boston (1884–85)]]
* [[Temple Ohabei Shalom (Brookline, Massachusetts)|Ohabei Shalom]], founded in 1843, is the oldest congregation.
* [[Temple Ohabei Shalom (Brookline, Massachusetts)|Ohabei Shalom]], founded in 1843, is the oldest congregation.
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===Michigan===
===Michigan===

* [[Temple Emanuel (Grand Rapids, Michigan)]] is the oldest extant synagogue building in the state (1881);<ref name=Gordon/> the congregation was founded in 1857.
* [[Temple Emanuel (Grand Rapids, Michigan)]] is the oldest extant synagogue building in the state (1881);<ref name=Gordon/> the congregation was founded in 1857.


===Minnesota===
===Minnesota===

* [[Mount Zion Temple]], organized in 1856 in [[St. Paul, Minnesota|St. Paul]].
* [[Mount Zion Temple]], organized in 1856 in [[St. Paul, Minnesota|St. Paul]].


===Mississippi===
===Mississippi===

* B'nai Israel was organized in [[Natchez, Mississippi|Natchez]] in 1843, making it the oldest congregation in Mississippi.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20120508085648/http://www.isjl.org/downloads/050106_bani_marker.pdf B'Nai Israel to Unveil Historical Marker]". The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson, Mississippi). April 28, 2006. Archived from the [http://www.msje.org/downloads/050106_bani_marker.pdf original] on May 8, 2012.</ref><ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/natchezmississippi.html Temple B'Nai Israel: Natchez, Mississippi]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* B'nai Israel was organized in [[Natchez, Mississippi|Natchez]] in 1843, making it the oldest congregation in Mississippi.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20120508085648/http://www.isjl.org/downloads/050106_bani_marker.pdf B'Nai Israel to Unveil Historical Marker]". The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson, Mississippi). April 28, 2006. Archived from the [http://www.msje.org/downloads/050106_bani_marker.pdf original] on May 8, 2012.</ref><ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/natchezmississippi.html Temple B'Nai Israel: Natchez, Mississippi]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* An historic marker on the corner of South Street and South Main Street in [[Jackson, Mississippi|Jackson]] marks the site of the first synagogue built in the state, Beth Israel, built in 1867. The building was destroyed by fire on July 10, 1874.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20120508082804/http://www.isjl.org/media/article_dedication.htm Site of Mississippi's First Synagogue Dedicated]". ''Goldring-Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life''. 2006. Archived from the [http://www.isjl.org/media/article_dedication.htm original] on May 8, 2012.</ref><ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/jacksonmississippi.html Temple Beth Israel – Jackson, Mississippi]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
* An historic marker on the corner of South Street and South Main Street in [[Jackson, Mississippi|Jackson]] marks the site of the first synagogue built in the state, Beth Israel, built in 1867. The building was destroyed by fire on July 10, 1874.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20120508082804/http://www.isjl.org/media/article_dedication.htm Site of Mississippi's First Synagogue Dedicated]". ''Goldring-Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life''. 2006. Archived from the [http://www.isjl.org/media/article_dedication.htm original] on May 8, 2012.</ref><ref>"[http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms1/jacksonmississippi.html Temple Beth Israel – Jackson, Mississippi]". ''Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation''.</ref>
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===Missouri===
===Missouri===

* [[United Hebrew Congregation (Chesterfield, Missouri)|United Hebrew Congregation]], 1837, is the oldest congregation in Missouri and the oldest congregation west of the [[Mississippi River]].
* [[United Hebrew Congregation (Chesterfield, Missouri)|United Hebrew Congregation]], 1837, is the oldest congregation in Missouri and the oldest congregation west of the [[Mississippi River]].
* [[Temple Beth El (Jefferson City, MO)|Temple Beth El, Jefferson City]] has continuously operated in the same location and building since 1883.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Temple Beth El (Jefferson City, MO)|Temple Beth El, Jefferson City]] has continuously operated in the same location and building since 1883.<ref name=Gordon/>


===Montana===
===Montana===

[[File:Temple Emanu-El 02.jpg|thumb|Temple Emanu-El, Helena, Montana (1890–91)]]
[[File:Temple Emanu-El 02.jpg|thumb|Temple Emanu-El, Helena, Montana (1890–91)]]
* Congregation B’nai Israel Temple in [[Butte, Montana]] was built in 1903.
* Congregation B’nai Israel Temple in [[Butte, Montana]] was built in 1903.
* [[Temple Emanu-El (Helena, Montana)]] was built in 1890–91.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nrhp.focus.nps.gov/natregsearchresult.do?fullresult%3Dtrue%26recordid%3D0 |title=Archived copy |access-date=2014-02-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130220204509/http://nrhp.focus.nps.gov/natregsearchresult.do?fullresult=true&recordid=0 |archive-date=2013-02-20 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/helenamontanaapril2001.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* [[Temple Emanu-El (Helena, Montana)]] was built in 1890–91.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nrhp.focus.nps.gov/natregsearchresult.do?fullresult%3Dtrue%26recordid%3D0 |title=National Register |access-date=2014-02-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130220204509/http://nrhp.focus.nps.gov/natregsearchresult.do?fullresult=true&recordid=0 |archive-date=2013-02-20 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/helenamontanaapril2001.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>


===Nebraska===
===Nebraska===

* Temple Israel of Omaha is the oldest congregation in Nebraska (1871).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/omahanebraska.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* Temple Israel of Omaha is the oldest congregation in Nebraska (1871).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/omahanebraska.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>


===Nevada===
===Nevada===

* [[Temple Emanu-El (Reno, Nevada)|Temple Emanu-El]], Reno, Nevada, founded in 1922.
* [[Temple Emanu-El (Reno, Nevada)|Temple Emanu-El]], Reno, Nevada, founded in 1922.
* Temple Beth Sholom, Las Vegas, Nevada, founded in 1931.
* Temple Beth Sholom, Las Vegas, Nevada, founded in 1931.


===New Hampshire===
===New Hampshire===

* Temple Adath Yeshurun of [[Manchester, New Hampshire|Manchester]], founded in 1891, is the oldest congregation in New Hampshire.
* Temple Adath Yeshurun of [[Manchester, New Hampshire|Manchester]], founded in 1891, is the oldest congregation in New Hampshire.
* Temple Israel, first permanent Jewish house of worship in New Hampshire, [[Portsmouth, New Hampshire|Portsmouth]], 1910.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/portsmouthnewhampshire.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* Temple Israel, first permanent Jewish house of worship in New Hampshire, [[Portsmouth, New Hampshire|Portsmouth]], 1910.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/portsmouthnewhampshire.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>


===New Jersey===
===New Jersey===
[[File:Adas Emuno Synagogue Hoboken, Hudson County 02.jpg|thumb|Building at 637 Garden Street, Hoboken, in Hudson County, built in 1883]]
*Congregation B'nai Jeshurun of the Town of Paterson, incorporated by the New Jersey Legislature on December 22, 1847. The congregation was later named The Barnert Temple in honor of a past-president and former mayor of Paterson, Nathan Barnert. In 1987, the congregation moved from Paterson to Franklin Lakes, its current location. <ref>https://barnerttemple.org/Our_Community/Who_We_Are</ref><ref>Schwartz, C., 2007, An American Odyssey: American Religious Freedom and The Nathan Barnert Memorial Temple. Jersey City: KTAV Publishing House.</ref>

*Congregation B'nai Jeshurun of the Town of Paterson, incorporated by the New Jersey Legislature on December 22, 1847. The congregation was later named The Barnert Temple in honor of a past-president and former [[Mayor of Paterson, New Jersey|Mayor of Paterson]] [[Nathan Barnert]]. In 1987, the congregation to [[Franklin Lakes, New Jersey|Franklin Lakes]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://barnerttemple.org/Our_Community/Who_We_Are |title=Who We Are {{!}} Barnert Temple - Franklin Lakes |website=barnerttemple.org |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140914154922/http://barnerttemple.org/Our_Community/Who_We_Are |archive-date=2014-09-14}} </ref><ref>Schwartz, C., 2007, An American Odyssey: American Religious Freedom and The Nathan Barnert Memorial Temple. Jersey City: KTAV Publishing House.</ref>
* [[Congregation Adas Emuno (New Jersey)]]'s 1883 building in [[Hoboken, New Jersey|Hoboken]] is the oldest surviving synagogue building in New Jersey, although it is no longer used as a synagogue.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Congregation Adas Emuno (New Jersey)]]'s 1883 building in [[Hoboken, New Jersey|Hoboken]] is the oldest surviving synagogue building in New Jersey, although it is no longer used as a synagogue.<ref name=Gordon/>
* Congregation B'nai Jeshurun was founded in 1848. Originally located in Newark, it is currently located in Short Hills, NJ.<ref>TBJ website http://tbj.org/about-us/temple-history/ accessdate=2011-05-17</ref>
* Congregation B'nai Jeshurun was founded in 1848. Originally located in Newark, it is currently located in Short Hills, NJ.<ref>TBJ website http://tbj.org/about-us/temple-history/ accessdate=2011-05-17</ref>
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===New Mexico===
===New Mexico===

* [[Congregation Albert]], founded in 1897, is the oldest continuing Jewish organization in New Mexico.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.congregationalbert.org/|title=HOME|website=Congregation Albert|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.abqjournal.com/news/metro/399149metro10-15-05.htm|title=ABQjournal: Congregation Albert City's Oldest|website=www.abqjournal.com|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* [[Congregation Albert]], founded in 1897, is the oldest continuing Jewish organization in New Mexico.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.congregationalbert.org/|title=HOME|website=Congregation Albert|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.abqjournal.com/news/metro/399149metro10-15-05.htm|title=ABQjournal: Congregation Albert City's Oldest|website=www.abqjournal.com|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* Congregation Montefiore, Las Vegas, N.M. was the first Jewish congregation in New Mexico; it was founded in 1884<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/lasvegasnm.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* Congregation Montefiore, Las Vegas, N.M. was the first Jewish congregation in New Mexico; it was founded in 1884<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/lasvegasnm.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>


===New York===
===New York===

* [[Congregation Shearith Israel]], founded 1654, [[Upper West Side]], [[Manhattan]], is the oldest congregation in New York and the United States.
* [[Congregation Shearith Israel]], founded 1654, [[Upper West Side]], [[Manhattan]], is the oldest congregation in New York and the United States.
*[[B'nai Jeshurun (Manhattan)|B'nai Jeshurun]], founded 1825, the second Jewish congregation in New York City and the ninth in the United States, now located on the [[Upper West Side|Upper West Side, Manhattan]].
*[[B'nai Jeshurun (Manhattan)|B'nai Jeshurun]], founded 1825, the second Jewish congregation in New York City and the ninth in the United States, now located on the [[Upper West Side|Upper West Side, Manhattan]].
*[[Congregation Darech Amuno (variously spelled Darech Emunah and Darech Amino)]], [[Greenwich Village]] was established in 1838. The Orthodox congregation is also known as the Greenwich Village Synagogue and had a weekly Shabbat minyan at 53 Charles Street, New York, NY until 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://daytoninmanhattan.blogspot.com/2011/07/quiet-little-synagogue-at-53-charles.html|title=Daytonian in Manhattan: The Quiet Little Synagogue at 53 Charles Street|first=Tom|last=Miller|date=Jul 1, 2011|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://greenwichvillagesynagogue.org/|title=Home|website=Greenwich Village Synagogue|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
*[[Congregation Darech Amuno]] (variously spelled Darech Emunah and Darech Amino), [[Greenwich Village]] was established in 1838. The Orthodox congregation is also known as the Greenwich Village Synagogue and had a weekly Shabbat minyan at 53 Charles Street, New York, NY until 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://daytoninmanhattan.blogspot.com/2011/07/quiet-little-synagogue-at-53-charles.html|title=Daytonian in Manhattan: The Quiet Little Synagogue at 53 Charles Street|first=Tom|last=Miller|date=Jul 1, 2011|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://greenwichvillagesynagogue.org/|title=Home|website=Greenwich Village Synagogue|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* [[Temple Society of Concord]], founded 1839, [[Syracuse, New York]].
* [[Temple Society of Concord]], founded 1839, [[Syracuse, New York]].
* [[Angel Orensanz Center]], 1849–50, [[Lower East Side]], Manhattan, is the oldest synagogue building still standing in New York State.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Angel Orensanz Center]], 1849–50, [[Lower East Side]], Manhattan, is the oldest synagogue building still standing in New York State.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Central Synagogue (Manhattan)|Central Synagogue]] was constructed in 1870–72.
* [[Central Synagogue (Manhattan)|Central Synagogue]] was constructed in 1870–72.
* Orach Chaim, founded 1879, [[Upper East Side]], Manhattan<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://orachchaim.org/|title=Congregation Orach Chaim|website=orachchaim.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* Orach Chaim, founded 1879, [[Upper East Side]], Manhattan<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://orachchaim.org/|title=Congregation Orach Chaim|website=orachchaim.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* [[Congregation Anshe Emeth]], founded 1885, [[Hudson, New York]]
* [[Congregation Anshe Emeth]] now known as [[Congregation Beth Emeth]], was founded 1885, [[Albany, New York]]
* [http://www.greenpointshul.org Congregation Ahavas Israel], founded 1886, [[Greenpoint, Brooklyn|Greenpoint]], [[Brooklyn]], also known as [http://www.greenpointshul.org Greenpoint Shul]
* [http://www.greenpointshul.org Congregation Ahavas Israel], founded 1886, [[Greenpoint, Brooklyn|Greenpoint]], [[Brooklyn]], also known as [http://www.greenpointshul.org Greenpoint Shul]
* [[Congregation Baith Israel Anshei Emes]] commonly known as [https://kanestreet.org/about/history/ Kane Street Synagogue], founded 1856 as the first synagogue in Brooklyn or on Long Island
* [[Congregation Baith Israel Anshei Emes]] commonly known as [https://kanestreet.org/about/history/ Kane Street Synagogue], founded 1856 as the first synagogue in Brooklyn or on Long Island
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===North Carolina===
===North Carolina===

* The [[Temple of Israel (Wilmington, North Carolina)|Temple of Israel]] in [[Wilmington, North Carolina|Wilmington]] was organized in 1872. It is the oldest congregation in [[North Carolina]] and one of the earliest Reform synagogues (built 1875–76) in the [[American South|South]].
* The [[Temple of Israel (Wilmington, North Carolina)|Temple of Israel]] in [[Wilmington, North Carolina|Wilmington]] was organized in 1872. It is the oldest congregation in [[North Carolina]] and one of the earliest Reform synagogues (built 1875–76) in the [[American South|South]].


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===Ohio===
===Ohio===

* The [[Rockdale Temple]] (1824), originally known as [[K.K. Bene Israel]] in [[Cincinnati, Ohio|Cincinnati]], is not only the oldest congregation in Ohio, it is the oldest congregation west of the [[Allegheny Mountains]] and the second oldest [[Ashkenazi]] congregation in the United States.
* The [[Rockdale Temple]] (1824), originally known as [[K.K. Bene Israel]] in [[Cincinnati, Ohio|Cincinnati]], is not only the oldest congregation in Ohio, it is the oldest congregation west of the [[Allegheny Mountains]] and the second oldest [[Ashkenazi]] congregation in the United States.
* [[Sherith Israel Temple]], also in Cincinnati (1860), is the oldest synagogue structure west of the Alleghenies.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Sherith Israel Temple]], also in Cincinnati (1860), is the oldest synagogue structure west of the Alleghenies.<ref name=Gordon/>


===Oklahoma===
===Oklahoma===

* '''Temple Emeth''' in [[Ardmore, Oklahoma|Ardmore]] was the oldest known [[List of synagogues in Oklahoma|Jewish congregation in Oklahoma]].<ref name="americanjewisharchives.org">http://www.americanjewisharchives.org/aja/FindingAids/TempleEmeth.html</ref> Founded prior to statehood, they acquired their first building in 1912.<ref name="americanjewisharchives.org"/> The congregation disbanded in 2004.<ref name="americanjewisharchives.org"/>
* '''Temple Emeth''' in [[Ardmore, Oklahoma|Ardmore]] was the oldest known [[List of synagogues in Oklahoma|Jewish congregation in Oklahoma]].<ref name="americanjewisharchives.org">{{cite web |url=http://www.americanjewisharchives.org/aja/FindingAids/TempleEmeth.html |title=Ardmore, Oklahoma - Temple Emeth Records |website=www.americanjewisharchives.org |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090220055852/http://www.americanjewisharchives.org/aja/FindingAids/TempleEmeth.html |archive-date=2009-02-20}} </ref> Founded prior to statehood, they acquired their first building in 1912.<ref name="americanjewisharchives.org"/> The congregation disbanded in 2004.<ref name="americanjewisharchives.org"/>
* Temple B'nai Israel was formed in May 1903 in [[Oklahoma City]], making it the oldest active congregation in Oklahoma.<ref>[http://www.synagogues.com/article/view/jewish-synagogues-in-oklahoma-city2 Jewish Synagogues in Oklahoma City]</ref>
* Temple B'nai Israel was formed in May 1903 in [[Oklahoma City]], making it the oldest active congregation in Oklahoma.<ref>[http://www.synagogues.com/article/view/jewish-synagogues-in-oklahoma-city2 Jewish Synagogues in Oklahoma City]</ref>


===Oregon===
===Oregon===

* [[Congregation Beth Israel (Portland, Oregon)]], founded in 1858.
* [[Congregation Beth Israel (Portland, Oregon)]], founded in 1858.


===Pennsylvania===
===Pennsylvania===

* [[Congregation Mikveh Israel]] in Philadelphia was founded in the 1740s. It was the fourth congregation founded in the future United States and the second oldest in continuous operation.
* [[Congregation Mikveh Israel]] in Philadelphia was founded in the 1740s. It was the fourth congregation founded in the future United States and the second oldest in continuous operation.
* [[Congregation Rodeph Shalom (Philadelphia)|Congregation Rodeph Shalom]] in Philadelphia was founded in 1795 and is the oldest [[Ashkenazi]] congregation in the Western Hemisphere.
* [[Congregation Rodeph Shalom (Philadelphia)|Congregation Rodeph Shalom]] in Philadelphia was founded in 1795 and is the oldest [[Ashkenazi]] congregation in the Western Hemisphere.
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===Puerto Rico===
===Puerto Rico===

* Sha'are Zedeck, built in 1952, is the oldest synagogue in Puerto Rico.
* Sha'are Zedeck, built in 1952, is the oldest synagogue in Puerto Rico.


===Rhode Island===
===Rhode Island===

* The [[Touro Synagogue]] in [[Newport, Rhode Island|Newport]], founded c.1658, is the oldest Jewish house of worship in North America that is still standing. It was built in 1759–63.
* The [[Touro Synagogue]] in [[Newport, Rhode Island|Newport]], founded c.1658, is the oldest Jewish house of worship in North America that is still standing. It was built in 1759–63.


===South Carolina===
===South Carolina===

* [[Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue]] in [[Charleston, South Carolina|Charleston]] was started in 1749.
* [[Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue]] in [[Charleston, South Carolina|Charleston]] was started in 1749.


===South Dakota===
===South Dakota===

* Mount Zion Congregation, Sioux Falls, possibly the oldest congregation, ca. 1903
* Mount Zion Congregation, Sioux Falls, possibly the oldest congregation, ca. 1903


===Tennessee===
===Tennessee===

* The 1882 building of [[Temple Adas Israel]], [[Brownsville, Tennessee|Brownsville]], is the oldest synagogue building in Tennessee.<ref name=Gordon/>
* The 1882 building of [[Temple Adas Israel]], [[Brownsville, Tennessee|Brownsville]], is the oldest synagogue building in Tennessee.<ref name=Gordon/>
* First permanent Jewish congregation in Tennessee, Children of Israel, 1858 in Memphis. Originally known as Congregation B'nai Israel-Children of Israel, [[Temple Israel (Memphis, Tennessee)|Temple Israel (Memphis)]] was formed by 36 German Jewish families in 1853 and chartered by the state of Tennessee on March 2, 1854.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timemphis.org/temple-israel/|title=Temple Israel – Temple Israel|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* First permanent Jewish congregation in Tennessee, Children of Israel, 1858 in Memphis. Originally known as Congregation B'nai Israel-Children of Israel, [[Temple Israel (Memphis, Tennessee)|Temple Israel (Memphis)]] was formed by 36 German Jewish families in 1853 and chartered by the state of Tennessee on March 2, 1854.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timemphis.org/temple-israel/|title=Temple Israel – Temple Israel|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
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===Texas===
===Texas===

[[File:1870 B'nai Israel Temple, Galveston.jpg|thumb|B'nai Israel, Galveston, Texas (1870)]]
[[File:1870 B'nai Israel Temple, Galveston.jpg|thumb|B'nai Israel, Galveston, Texas (1870)]]
* [[Temple Beth Israel (Houston, Texas)]], founded in 1854, is the oldest congregation in the state.
* [[Temple Beth Israel (Houston, Texas)]], founded in 1854, is the oldest congregation in the state.
* The 1870 building of [[Congregation B'nai Israel (Galveston, Texas)]] is the oldest synagogue building in Texas. It was rebuilt c.1890.<ref name=Gordon/>
* The 1870 building of [[Congregation B'nai Israel (Galveston, Texas)]] is the oldest synagogue building in Texas. It was rebuilt c.1890.<ref name=Gordon/>
* [[Temple Beth-El (San Antonio, Texas)]], founded in 1874, is the oldest congregation in South Texas.
* [[Temple Beth-El (San Antonio, Texas)]], founded in 1874, is the oldest congregation in South Texas.
* Congregation Beth Israel (Austin, TX) founded 1876. First congregation to receive a charter from the Texas Leislature.
* [[B'nai Abraham Synagogue (Brenham, Texas)]], founded in 1885.
* [[B'nai Abraham Synagogue (Brenham, Texas)]], founded in 1885.


===Utah===
===Utah===

*[[B'nai Israel Temple (Salt Lake City)|B'nai Israel Temple]] in [[Salt Lake City]] was the first permanent Jewish house of worship in Utah, founded in 1883.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/saltlakecityutah.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
*[[B'nai Israel Temple (Salt Lake City)|B'nai Israel Temple]] in [[Salt Lake City]] was the first permanent Jewish house of worship in Utah, founded in 1883.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/saltlakecityutah.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>


===Vermont===
===Vermont===

* [[Ohavi Zedek]] ("Lovers of Justice"), the first synagogue built in [[Burlington, Vermont]], started by 18 people in 1885.
* [[Ohavi Zedek]] ("Lovers of Justice"), the first synagogue built in [[Burlington, Vermont]], started by 18 people in 1885.


===Virginia===
===Virginia===

* [[Beth El Hebrew Congregation]], Alexandria, VA was established in 1859.
* [[Beth El Hebrew Congregation]], Alexandria, VA was established in 1859.
* [[Kahal Kadosh Beth Shalome]], [[Richmond, Virginia|Richmond]], founded in 1789 was the oldest congregation until its merger with [[Congregation Beth Ahabah]] in 1898.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/richmondva.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* [[Kahal Kadosh Beth Shalome]], [[Richmond, Virginia|Richmond]], founded in 1789 was the oldest congregation until its merger with [[Congregation Beth Ahabah]] in 1898.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/richmondva.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
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===Washington===
===Washington===
* [[Bikur Cholim Machzikay Hadath|Congregation Bikur Cholim Machzikay Hadath]] is It is the oldest synagogue in Washington state. It is in the Seward Park neighborhood of Seattle, Washington. The congregation was founded in 1891
* The state's first synagogue, Temple Emamu-El in Spokane, was built in 1892 and later demolished. The congregation later merged with Keneseth Israel to form the present-day Temple Beth Shalom.<ref>WSJHS (2006), ''The Jewish Experience in Washington State: A Chronology 1845–2005'', Washington State Jewish Historical Society (WSJHS), p. 14–15.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/spokanewashington.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* The state's first synagogue, Temple Emamu-El in Spokane, was built in 1892 and later demolished. The congregation later merged with Keneseth Israel to form the present-day Temple Beth Shalom.
* In 1914, [[Sephardic Bikur Holim Congregation]] was established. It is open for three daily prayers, on every Sabbath and all holidays. The congregation's original members hail from the country of Turkey.
* In 1914, [[Sephardic Bikur Holim Congregation]] was established. It is open for three daily prayers, on every Sabbath and all holidays. The congregation's original members hail from the country of Turkey.


===West Virginia===
===West Virginia===

* [[Temple Shalom (Wheeling, West Virginia)]], congregation founded in 1849.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/charlestonwva.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* [[Temple Shalom (Wheeling, West Virginia)]], congregation founded in 1849.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/charlestonwva.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>


===Wisconsin===
===Wisconsin===

[[File:Gates of Heaven Synagogue 2012.jpg|thumb|Gates of Heaven, Madison, Wisconsin (1863)]]
[[File:Gates of Heaven Synagogue 2012.jpg|thumb|Gates of Heaven, Madison, Wisconsin (1863)]]
* The 1863<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.jewishmadison.org/community-directory/gates-of-heaven-synagogue|title=Gates of Heaven Synagogue &#124; Jewish Federation of Madison|website=www.jewishmadison.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref> [[Gates of Heaven Synagogue (Madison, Wisconsin)|Gates of Heaven Synagogue]] in [[Madison, Wisconsin|Madison]] is the oldest synagogue building in the state and the ninth-oldest in the country.<ref name=Gordon/> It was moved to James Madison Park in 1970 and is now owned by the city of Madison.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/find-a-park/|title=Find a Park – Madison Parks – City of Madison, Wisconsin|website=www.cityofmadison.com|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* The 1863<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.jewishmadison.org/community-directory/gates-of-heaven-synagogue|title=Gates of Heaven Synagogue &#124; Jewish Federation of Madison|website=www.jewishmadison.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref> [[Gates of Heaven Synagogue (Madison, Wisconsin)|Gates of Heaven Synagogue]] in [[Madison, Wisconsin|Madison]] is the oldest synagogue building in the state and the ninth-oldest in the country.<ref name=Gordon/> It was moved to James Madison Park in 1970 and is now owned by the city of Madison.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/find-a-park/|title=Find a Park – Madison Parks – City of Madison, Wisconsin|website=www.cityofmadison.com|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
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===Wyoming===
===Wyoming===

* Mt. Sinai Congregation, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, the oldest synagogue in Wyoming, built in 1910.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/cheyennewyoming.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>
* Mt. Sinai Congregation, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, the oldest synagogue in Wyoming, built in 1910.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org/completedprgms2/cheyennewyoming.html|title=American Jewish History, markers, articles|website=www.jewish-american-society-for-historic-preservation.org|access-date=Jan 1, 2021}}</ref>


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==References==
==References==

{{reflist|30em}}
{{reflist|30em}}



Latest revision as of 00:08, 28 June 2024

Touro Synagogue, Newport, Rhode Island (founded c. 1658, built 1759–63)
Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue, Charleston, South Carolina (founded 1749, built 1840–41)
Congregation Shearith Israel, New York, New York (founded 1654, built 1896–97)

Synagogues may be considered "oldest" based on different criteria such as oldest surviving building or oldest congregation. Some older synagogue buildings have been in continuous use as synagogues, while others have been converted to other purposes, and a few, such as the Touro Synagogue, were shuttered for many decades. Some early established congregations have been in continuous existence, while other early congregations have ceased to exist.

Oldest congregations

[edit]

Sephardi congregations

[edit]

All of the oldest congregations in the new world were founded by Sephardi Jews and followed the Sephardic liturgy.

Congregation Mickve Israel, Savannah, Georgia (founded 1733, built 1876–78)

Ashkenazi congregations

[edit]

Until 1795, all documented congregations in the United States followed the Sephardic minhag. However, many included Ashkenazi members as well.

Oldest existing buildings

[edit]

This list includes only buildings originally built as synagogues that are still standing. Some continue in use as Jewish houses of worship; others have been adaptively reused. Fewer than 100 purpose-built synagogues constructed prior to 1900 remain standing.[5] A portion of these are highlighted below.

Plum Street Temple, Cincinnati, Ohio (1865–66)

By state

[edit]
Adas Israel, Washington, D.C. (1876)

Alabama

[edit]
  • Congregation Sha'arai Shomayim, located in Mobile, the oldest congregation in Alabama, was formally organized on January 25, 1844. Their first synagogue was Emanuel Street Synagogue, dedicated on December 27, 1846. The current Springhill Avenue Temple is their fifth location.[8]

Alaska

[edit]
  • Congregation Beth Sholom was first organized on September 5, 1958, in Anchorage.[9]

Arizona

[edit]
  • Emanu-El dedicated the first synagogue in the Arizona Territory on October 3, 1910, in Tucson. The congregation stopped holding services there in 1949. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and currently houses the Jewish Heritage Center of the Southwest.[10]

Arkansas

[edit]

California

[edit]

Colorado

[edit]
  • Temple Aaron in Trinidad, Colorado, built in 1889.[15]
  • Temple Emanuel Synagogue in Pueblo, Colorado, built in 1900, is the city's oldest synagogue, according to the synagogue itself.[16] The building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.[17]
  • Temple Israel, Leadville, Colorado's 1884 building was restored as a synagogue and Jewish pioneer museum in 2008. The original congregation dissolved before 1914. The Hebrew Cemetery was established in 1880.

Connecticut

[edit]

Delaware

[edit]
  • Adas Kodesch Shel Emeth in Wilmington, Delaware, is the oldest congregation in the state. It was formed from the merger in 1957 of the Orthodox Adas Kodesch Congregation, which was established in 1885, and the Chesed Shel Emeth Congregation. It is usually referred to simply as Adas Kodesch and is billed as "The First Synagogue in the First State".[19]

District of Columbia

[edit]

Florida

[edit]
Temple Beth-El, Pensacola, Florida (1933)
  • Ahavath Chesed in Jacksonville, and Temple Beth-El in Pensacola each has claims to being the oldest Jewish congregation in Florida. The Jacksonville congregation was meeting for prayer by 1867, but appears to have incorporated later than Pensacola which dedicated its first building in 1876, well before Jacksonville's 1882 building. The current synagogue building in Pensacola opened in 1933.[22]
  • The United Hebrews of Ocala building was built in 1888. It is the oldest Florida synagogue building still standing.[5] It is now the Ocala Bible Chapel, a Christian congregation.
  • First Congregation Sons of Israel is the oldest synagogue in “The Nation's Oldest City”, St. Augustine, Florida. The congregation was chartered in 1908. The current synagogue building was dedicated in 1923. It is the oldest Florida synagogue building continuously used as a synagogue since construction.

Georgia

[edit]
  • Congregation Mickve Israel of Savannah, Georgia was organized in 1733.
  • Congregation of B'nai Israel Synagogue of Augusta, Georgia, was organized in 1846, and its 1869 building is still present on Telfair Street in downtown Augusta and is currently being restored as the future home of the Augusta Jewish Museum.
  • Temple Beth Tefilloh of Brunswick, Georgia, was established in 1886, and its 1889–90 building was designed by renowned Jewish architect Alfred S. Eichberg. Beth Tefilloh has been continuously active since its founding.

Hawaii

[edit]
  • Temple Emanu-El dates back to 1938 when 35 Jewish families on Oahu formed the Honolulu Jewish Community. In 1939, in cooperation with the Jewish Welfare Board, a small chapel on Young Street was leased and converted into a Jewish Community Center (JCC), which also served as Honolulu's first permanent synagogue.[23]

Idaho

[edit]
  • Ahavath Beth Israel, Boise, Idaho (1895–96).[7] The synagogue was built for Beth Israel, founded in 1895. In the 1980s, the congregation was formed as a merger of Congregation Beth Israel and Ahavath Israel, founded in 1912.

Illinois

[edit]

Indiana

[edit]

Iowa

[edit]
  • Temple Emanuel of Davenport was formed as B'nai Israel Congregation on October 21, 1861.[27]
  • B'nai Israel Congregation, Keokuk, Iowa. First permanent Jewish house of worship in Iowa, 1877.[28]

Kentucky

[edit]

Kansas

[edit]

Louisiana

[edit]
Shaare Tefilah, New Orleans, Louisiana (1860–65)
  • Touro Synagogue in New Orleans, Louisiana, is the oldest congregation in the state. Touro Synagogue traces its origins back to Shanarai-Chasset (Congregation Gates of Mercy), which was founded in New Orleans in 1828.[2][30]
  • Shaare Tefilah (Gates of Prayer) in New Orleans, Louisiana, is the oldest surviving synagogue building in the state.[5] Architect J. Thiele designed the brick structure to replace an earlier building, but construction was delayed by the Civil War. The synagogue was dedicated in 1865. The building is located at 709 Jackson Avenue in the Lower Garden District. The former synagogue had been converted to use as a storage facility; however, it was recently purchased and was converted to a 12-unit apartment building.[31][32]
  • Temple Sinai (New Orleans, Louisiana), the city's oldest Reform congregation, was established in 1870.

Maine

[edit]

Maryland

[edit]

Massachusetts

[edit]
Temple Israel, Boston (1884–85)

Michigan

[edit]

Minnesota

[edit]

Mississippi

[edit]
  • B'nai Israel was organized in Natchez in 1843, making it the oldest congregation in Mississippi.[34][35]
  • An historic marker on the corner of South Street and South Main Street in Jackson marks the site of the first synagogue built in the state, Beth Israel, built in 1867. The building was destroyed by fire on July 10, 1874.[36][37]
  • Gemiluth Chessed (Acts of Loving Kindness) is a Moorish Revival synagogue in Port Gibson, Mississippi. It is the oldest surviving synagogue in the state,[5] and the only building of this architectural style. It was built in 1892 by a community of Jewish immigrants from German states and Alsace-Lorraine. Due to declining population, the congregation closed in 1986.

Missouri

[edit]

Montana

[edit]
Temple Emanu-El, Helena, Montana (1890–91)

Nebraska

[edit]
  • Temple Israel of Omaha is the oldest congregation in Nebraska (1871).[40]

Nevada

[edit]
  • Temple Emanu-El, Reno, Nevada, founded in 1922.
  • Temple Beth Sholom, Las Vegas, Nevada, founded in 1931.

New Hampshire

[edit]
  • Temple Adath Yeshurun of Manchester, founded in 1891, is the oldest congregation in New Hampshire.
  • Temple Israel, first permanent Jewish house of worship in New Hampshire, Portsmouth, 1910.[41]

New Jersey

[edit]
Building at 637 Garden Street, Hoboken, in Hudson County, built in 1883
  • Congregation B'nai Jeshurun of the Town of Paterson, incorporated by the New Jersey Legislature on December 22, 1847. The congregation was later named The Barnert Temple in honor of a past-president and former Mayor of Paterson Nathan Barnert. In 1987, the congregation to Franklin Lakes.[42][43]
  • Congregation Adas Emuno (New Jersey)'s 1883 building in Hoboken is the oldest surviving synagogue building in New Jersey, although it is no longer used as a synagogue.[5]
  • Congregation B'nai Jeshurun was founded in 1848. Originally located in Newark, it is currently located in Short Hills, NJ.[44]
  • Har Sinai Temple was founded in 1857. Originally located in Trenton, it is currently located in Pennington, NJ.
  • Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, the fourth Jewish congregation founded in New Jersey, was established in New Brunswick on October 11, 1859 where it still functions today as the oldest temple in Middlesex county as well as the oldest synagogue in New Jersey to still be located in its city of origin.

New Mexico

[edit]
  • Congregation Albert, founded in 1897, is the oldest continuing Jewish organization in New Mexico.[45][46]
  • Congregation Montefiore, Las Vegas, N.M. was the first Jewish congregation in New Mexico; it was founded in 1884[47]

New York

[edit]

North Carolina

[edit]

North Dakota

[edit]

Ohio

[edit]

Oklahoma

[edit]

Oregon

[edit]

Pennsylvania

[edit]

Puerto Rico

[edit]
  • Sha'are Zedeck, built in 1952, is the oldest synagogue in Puerto Rico.

Rhode Island

[edit]
  • The Touro Synagogue in Newport, founded c.1658, is the oldest Jewish house of worship in North America that is still standing. It was built in 1759–63.

South Carolina

[edit]

South Dakota

[edit]
  • Mount Zion Congregation, Sioux Falls, possibly the oldest congregation, ca. 1903

Tennessee

[edit]
  • The 1882 building of Temple Adas Israel, Brownsville, is the oldest synagogue building in Tennessee.[5]
  • First permanent Jewish congregation in Tennessee, Children of Israel, 1858 in Memphis. Originally known as Congregation B'nai Israel-Children of Israel, Temple Israel (Memphis) was formed by 36 German Jewish families in 1853 and chartered by the state of Tennessee on March 2, 1854.[54]
  • Congregation Ohabai Sholom (The Temple) in Nashville, had its beginnings in the late 1840s when a group of Jewish residents met for religious services. The synagogue lists its beginning year as 1851, when a benevolent society purchased cemetery property. It began as Khal Kodesh Mogen David and received a charter on March 2, 1854.[55]

Texas

[edit]
B'nai Israel, Galveston, Texas (1870)

Utah

[edit]

Vermont

[edit]

Virginia

[edit]

Washington

[edit]
  • Congregation Bikur Cholim Machzikay Hadath is It is the oldest synagogue in Washington state. It is in the Seward Park neighborhood of Seattle, Washington. The congregation was founded in 1891
  • The state's first synagogue, Temple Emamu-El in Spokane, was built in 1892 and later demolished. The congregation later merged with Keneseth Israel to form the present-day Temple Beth Shalom.
  • In 1914, Sephardic Bikur Holim Congregation was established. It is open for three daily prayers, on every Sabbath and all holidays. The congregation's original members hail from the country of Turkey.

West Virginia

[edit]

Wisconsin

[edit]
Gates of Heaven, Madison, Wisconsin (1863)

Wyoming

[edit]
  • Mt. Sinai Congregation, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, the oldest synagogue in Wyoming, built in 1910.[63]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c Sarna, Jonathan. American Judaism. Yale University Press, 2004. p. 19.
  2. ^ a b c "Our History". Touro Synagogue.
  3. ^ Sarna, Jonathan. American Judaism. Yale University Press, 2004. pp. 18ff, 56ff.
  4. ^ Queen II, Edward L.; Prothero, Stephen R.; Shattuck Jr., Gardiner H. (1996). The Encyclopedia of American Religious History. Vol. 2. New York: Proseworks. p. 487. ISBN 0-8160-3545-8.
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u Gordon, Mark W., Rediscovering Jewish Infrastructure: Update on United States Nineteenth Century Synagogues. American Jewish History, 84.1, 1996, p. 11–27. 2019 article update.
  6. ^ https://www.acreboot.org/sica
  7. ^ a b Stolzman, Henry; Stolzman, Daniel Synagogue Architecture in America: Faith, Spirit & Identity. The Images Publishing Group Pty Ltd. 2004.
  8. ^ "Shaarai Shomayim (Gates of Heaven)". Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation.
  9. ^ "About Us". Congregation Beth Sholom. Archived from the original on July 26, 2011.
  10. ^ "Stone Avenue Temple: Tucson AZ Archived 2008-09-07 at the Wayback Machine". Jewish Postcards. National Museum of American Jewish History.
  11. ^ Adler, Cyrus; Currick, M. C. "Arkansas". Jewish Encyclopedia. 1906.
  12. ^ 'Arkansas Jewish History". Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation.
  13. ^ Sarna, Jonathan. American Judaism. Yale University Press, 2004. p. 73
  14. ^ Panneton, Judie. "History – How Beautiful is Our Heritage: 160 years and Still Going Strong". Congregation B'nai Israel. Archived from the original on September 2, 2012.
  15. ^ Grant, Kim (2020-12-10). "Trinidad's Temple Aaron Looks to the Past to Secure Its Future". History Colorado. Retrieved 2021-08-26.
  16. ^ Temple Emanuel Pueblo. "Our History". templeemanuelpueblo.net. Retrieved 16 October 2020.
  17. ^ Waller, Allyson (15 October 2020). "White Supremacist Pleads Guilty to Plotting to Bomb Colorado Synagogue". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 16 October 2020.
  18. ^ Olitzky, Kerry M.; Raphael, Marc Lee. The American Synagogue: A Historical Dictionary and Sourcebook, Greenwood Press. June 30, 1996. pp. 76–80.
  19. ^ "Ohabe Shalom – Lovers of Peace". Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation.
  20. ^ a b "Illustrated History of 1876 Synagogue". Lillian and Albert Small Jewish Museum. Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington.
  21. ^ "Yes, That Was D.C.'s Oldest Synagogue Moving Down The Street (Again)". WAMU. Retrieved 2019-07-03.
  22. ^ "Pensacola, Florida". Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation.
  23. ^ "A History of Jews in Hawaii & the Kalakaua Torah". Temple Emanu-El.
  24. ^ "Home". Congregation Anshai Emeth. Retrieved Jan 1, 2021.
  25. ^ "[1]".
  26. ^ "Oldest Synagogue in Indiana Celebrates 100th Anniversary; Special Sermons Scheduled". Jewish News Archives. February 27, 1948. Archived from the original on April 19, 2013.
  27. ^ Baker, Deirdre Cox. "Temple Emanuel celebrates 150 years". The Quad City Times. April 14, 2011.
  28. ^ "B'nai Israel Congregation – First Permanent Jewish House of Worship in Iowa". Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation.
  29. ^ "Temple B'Nai Jeshurun". Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation.
  30. ^ "Shangarai Chasset: Gates of Mercy Synagogue: First permanent Jewish House of Worship in the State of Louisiana". Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation.
  31. ^ Wilson, Samuel and Bernard Lemann. New Orleans Architecture, Volume 1: The Lower Garden District. (New Orleans: Pelican Publishing, 1990): 129.
  32. ^ Ponchartrain, Blake. "New Orleans Know-It-All: Where is the Oldest Synagogue in New Orleans?" Gambit. February 8, 2010.
  33. ^ Bangor, Maine: Congregation Beth Israel 1897". Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation.
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