VIRTUAL ARCHIVES

Past Structures (Part 1)  

Number one of a series

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Minutes of the First Meeting of Congregation Keneseth Israel, March 2, 1847

   
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The first meeting was held at the home of Julius Stern, 482 N. 2^nd Street, on March 2, 1847 ( Purim).  Later that month the second floor at 528 N. 2^nd Street was rented and work immediately began to make it a house of worship. 

Translation, from original German, of the introductory paragraph of the minutes: 
We the undersigned have today unanimously agreed to establish a congregation, whose name and purpose will be stated next meeting.  With today's signatures we give our word of honor to remain faithful to this purpose and to support it with all our might.
                   Philada, March 2, 1847

In August of 1847 a hall was rented at Fifth and Wood Streets for $200 per year with another $150 spent for furnishings.  A new Ark was built and paid in full through collections, while the carpet was bought on four months credit.  The women of the congregation took up their own collection for Altar and Torah covers.

There are no artifacts for the above location.

Certificate for Sale of a Seat

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In January, 1853, the Congregation purchased the New Market Baptist Church at New Market and Noble Streets for $12,000.  Seats were to be sold or rented. A new organ would be bought for not more than $200.  The board held its first meeting in the new facility on March 3, 1854 and with much celebration (500 tickets and 500 circulars were printed) the consecration was held on April 10, 1854.

Temple at 6th & Brown Streets

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The Temple at 6^th & Brown, while the fifth place of worship, was the first that K.I. built. To raise money a Purim Ball was held at the Academy of Music and bonds were sold to members of the Congregation.  On March 24, 1863, the cornerstone was laid and on September 23, 1864 the building was dedicated. It was K.I.’s home for 28 years.

Interior of Temple at 6th & Brown

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