Temple Adas Israel

Temple Adas Israel stands at the intersection of Washington and College Streets, featuring thirteen stained glass windows and traditional brick exterior from 1920s renovations.

German Jewish immigrants established the congregation in 1867 and constructed this religious building in 1882, making it the oldest synagogue structure in Tennessee.

The synagogue represents the Reform Jewish tradition and maintains its religious services through lay leaders rather than employing full-time rabbis throughout its existence.

The synagogue continues to hold Shabbat services and maintains the Adas Israel Cemetery, established in 1878, which remains an active Jewish burial ground.

The stained glass window above the Torah ark displays a large human eye, an unusual decorative element for synagogue architecture in the United States.

Location: Tennessee

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://brownsvilletemple.org

GPS coordinates: 35.59556,-89.26250

Latest update: September 23, 2025 14:25