This fall marks 10 years since the restoration of the synagogue at the Museum at Eldridge Street. This September also marks the 130th anniversary of the synagogue’s opening.
The museum is housed in a synagogue that was built in 1887. It offers tours of the historic sanctuary as well as exhibits, programs, and neighborhood tours focusing on Jewish American history and culture. This fall, in celebration of its dual anniversary, special programming will be offered.
“The family program happening in September will involve families looking at parts of the building that were left unrestored by the museum. These include a broken piece of wall and the original floors of the synagogue,” says Rachel Serkin, senior educator at the Museum at Eldridge Street.
The Museum at Eldridge Street will also be having a scavenger hunt, in which families will learn how parts of the building, such as the paint and stained glass windows, were restored and even try their hand at some of the restoration techniques.
“The newest element in the building is our stained glass window designed by Kiki Smith and Deborah Gans,” Serkin says. “Families will be able to create their own designs for the window, and, in the spirit of Rosh Hashanah, create New Year cards.
In addition to this family program, the Museum at Eldridge Street will be hosting a series of programs throughout the fall connected to these milestone events, such as a photo exhibit on the restoration, a panel talk with the artists who did the restoration, and its second annual Generation to Generation Family Festival.
Here are some of the programs being offered by the Museum at Eldridge Street:
A Rosh Hashanah Restoration
Sunday, Sept. 17, 11am-12:30pm
Celebrate the Jewish New Year and the renewal of a landmark synagogue with a special scavenger hunt, art activities, and a look at the new restoration exhibition. This event is recommended for children ages 5 and older and reservations are required. Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for children.
All-of-a-Kind Family Walking Tour
Sunday, Oct. 22, 11am-12:30pm
What was it like to grow up on the Lower East Side in the early 20th century? Find out as we stroll through Sydney Taylor’s beloved story and onto the streets. We’ll visit the spots where the children played, prayed, and purchased their pickles and candy. This event is recommended for children ages 5 and older and reservations are required. Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for children.
Generation to Generation Festival
Sunday, Nov. 12, 12-4pm
Party like its 1887 at our festival of Eastern European Jewish traditions, music, and art. Synagogue tours, genealogy workshops, oral history activities, an old-fashioned photo booth, 19th-century citizenship test, art activities, and musical performances are all part of the fun. Guests are invited to pay what they wish.
The Museum at Eldridge Street is located at 12 Eldridge St. in Manhattan. For more information call 212-219-0302 or visit eldridgestreet.org.
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