Kane Street Synagogue stands as a significant landmark in the Cobble Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. Originally built in 1855, this building boasts a rich history, initially serving as the Middle Reformed Protestant Dutch Church. Its architectural style, reminiscent of Norman Romanesque design, adds to its unique charm and historical significance.
Interior of Kane Street Synagogue in Brooklyn, 1934, showcasing the historic sanctuary with pews and stained glass windows
The structure later became home to the Trinity German Lutheran Church before being acquired in 1905 by Congregation Baith Israel. This marked a new chapter for the building as it transitioned into a synagogue. In 1908, Congregation Baith Israel merged with Congregation Anshei Emes, forming Baith Israel Anshei Emes (BIAE), which continues to thrive at this location.
A notable feature within the Kane Street Synagogue is its beautiful stained glass windows, installed in 1917, adding vibrant colors and intricate designs to the sanctuary. Interestingly, the synagogue’s walls underwent a transformation in the 1930s, painted with a trompe l’oeil effect to mimic the appearance of limestone. Although this artistic detail was lost during a repainting in the 1980s, the synagogue retains its historical character.
For those eager to delve deeper into the story of Kane Street Synagogue and Congregation Baith Israel Anshei Emes, resources are readily available. Judith Greenwald, a former president, historian, and archivist, offers valuable insights through her three-part oral history, accessible online.
Further exploration of Brooklyn’s Jewish heritage is encouraged through the Brooklyn Jewish History Project collection hosted by the Brooklyn Public Library. This project, supported by the David Berg Foundation, provides a wealth of digitized materials documenting the lives and experiences of Jewish people in Brooklyn. You can also explore more historical images through the Brooklyn Public Library’s online image gallery and digital collections portal.
To conduct more in-depth research, the Center for Brooklyn History welcomes visitors to explore their extensive collections. For any research inquiries, their reference staff can be contacted at [email protected]. Kane Street Synagogue remains a testament to Brooklyn’s diverse history and architectural heritage, inviting further discovery and appreciation.
