Mount Sinai Temple

Mount Sinai Temple is a synagogue in Sioux City featuring the hallmarks of Prairie School architecture. The structure showcases horizontal lines and natural materials designed by architect William L. Steele in 1922.

The congregation was founded in 1898 and initially shared prayer space with a Unitarian church before constructing its own synagogue building in 1901. The Nebraska Street structure was later added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1999.

The temple's name references Mount Sinai, the biblical location where Jewish tradition holds the Torah was received. Visitors can sense this spiritual connection reflected in the building's design and layout.

The building sits on Nebraska Street and is easy to spot from the street thanks to its horizontal lines and light-colored materials. Visitors should know this is an active place of worship where respectful conduct is expected.

In 1994 the congregation merged with Shaare Zion to form Beth Sholom, a rare partnership that blends both Reform and Conservative traditions. This dual affiliation reflects how religious communities adapted to sustain their connection.

Location: Iowa

Architectural style: Prairie School architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.50500,-96.40280

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:44