Temple B'nai Sholom

Temple B'nai Sholom in Huntsville, Alabama, stands as a beacon of history and spirituality, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Jewish community in the American South. As the oldest synagogue in continuous use in Alabama, this historic landmark offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Jewish life in Huntsville, blending architectural elegance with profound cultural significance.

The Early Days of the Jewish Community

The story of Temple B'nai Sholom begins with the arrival of the Andrews brothers, Zalegman and Joseph, in the mid-19th century. These pioneering merchants were among the first Jews to settle in Huntsville, likely hailing from small towns in Germany. Their arrival marked the beginning of a Jewish presence that would grow steadily over the years. By 1874, the community had established a Jewish cemetery at Maple Hill, and a year later, a local chapter of B'nai B'rith was formed. The community's official congregation, B'nai Sholom, meaning Sons of Peace, was founded in 1876 with 32 members, aligning itself with the Reform movement of Judaism.

For nearly a quarter-century, the congregation held services in a rented room at the Masonic Lodge on Lincoln Street. It wasn't until 1892 that they hired their first full-time rabbi, A.M. Bloch, though his tenure was short-lived due to his controversial sermons. Subsequent rabbis also faced challenges, with most staying only a few years. In a unique twist, during a brief period without a rabbi in 1905, a local Episcopal minister, Reverend W.N. Claybrook, volunteered to lead Friday night services.

Building the Synagogue

In May 1898, the Jewish community purchased land at the corner of Lincoln Street and Clinton Avenue, embarking on the construction of their synagogue. Completed at a cost of $16,000, the building was dedicated on November 26, 1899. The Huntsville Weekly Democrat praised its architectural beauty, noting its significant contribution to the city's landscape.

The synagogue's design is a fascinating blend of styles. The exterior, primarily influenced by Romanesque architecture, features a central structure with a gabled roof flanked by twin towers of differing heights. The larger tower serves as the main entrance, while the smaller towers house secondary entrances. Elements such as the octagonal tower with corner turrets, round-arched windows and doors, and decorative parapets with finials reflect the Romanesque revival popular in the 19th century. The brickwork, executed with high-pressure pressed bricks and mortared with minimal joints, gives the building a monolithic appearance, enhanced by the reddish-brown colored mortar.

The Interior: A Geometric Marvel

Step inside Temple B'nai Sholom, and you'll be struck by the sophisticated geometric design. The main prayer space is an octagon, derived from a square with chamfered corners. The central axis, oriented at a 45-degree angle, creates a dynamic and unconventional layout. The vaulted wooden ceiling, a truncated pyramid with 24 angled planes, is adorned with 48 bare light bulbs, casting a warm and inviting glow.

The Bimah, located in the southeast corner, is rounded at the front, mirroring the curves of the original pews and the wooden floorboards. This arrangement, known as the Akron Plan, fosters a sense of community by bringing worshippers closer to the rabbi. Two large stained-glass windows, over 7.5 meters wide, flank the central axis, illuminating the Bimah without dazzling the congregation.

The interior's color scheme contrasts the dark brown natural wood of the ceiling with the light-colored plaster walls and the vibrant hues of the stained glass, dominated by warm tones and gold. Adjacent to the main prayer area is a flexible space that was once divided by a folding wooden partition, creating two classrooms that could be opened up to expand the prayer hall. These rooms, complete with fireplaces, also serve as meeting and reception areas.

Challenges and Renewal

The early 20th century saw a decline in the Jewish population of Huntsville, with membership peaking at 38 families in 1907 and dropping to 23 by 1940. The congregation struggled financially, unable to afford a full-time rabbi from 1913 until after World War II. However, the arrival of the U.S. Army Missile Command and the Marshall Space Flight Center in the 1950s brought new life to the community. The synagogue was renovated in 1975, just in time for its centennial celebration, and further structural repairs were made in the early 1990s.

In 1997, Temple B'nai Sholom became the permanent home for a Holocaust Torah, dedicated to the memory of Julie Ann Weiner. This Torah, rescued from an unknown town in the Czech Republic during World War II, symbolizes the resilience and continuity of Jewish tradition.

Modern Day Temple B'nai Sholom

Today, Temple B'nai Sholom continues to thrive under the leadership of its rabbi, offering a place of worship, education, and community for Huntsville's Jewish population. The synagogue remains a cherished landmark, reflecting both the historical journey and the vibrant future of the Jewish community in Alabama.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or someone seeking spiritual connection, a visit to Temple B'nai Sholom promises a rich and rewarding experience. Its storied past and enduring presence make it a must-see destination in Huntsville.