Congregation Mickve Israel is home to the 3rd oldest Jewish congregation in the USA. It’s a Gothic style synagogue and has a churchy kind of feel. Savannah was originally created as a buffer between the Spanish south and English north, meaning it was mainly created for defense. Olgethorpe, the founder didn’t plan on taking in more colonists but they needed a doctor. On July 11 1733, the William and Sarah ship carrying 40 or so Jewish passengers and Dr. Samuel Nunez landed. They were allowed to stay against the wishes of the London Trustees.
On this tour, I realized I have a thing for Jewish history. Whenever I learn about a synagogue that’s open to the public for tours, I try and make it a point to visit. I see Jewish history as a part of my heritage as a Lower East Sider. I grew up in Chinatown but when my Dad was little, that area would have been the Jewish side of town. Two blocks away from where I lived is the oldest of 3 graveyards of the Congregation Shearith Israel at St. James Place.
Congregation Mickve Israel is the only Gothic style synagogue in the USA.
This building is the work of architect Henry G. Harrison.
As Savannah’s Jewish congregation outgrew their old structure, the need for a larger one grew and on March 1, 1876 the cornerstone for this temple was laid.
It’s also home to an original 15th century Torah.