Temple Freda, Greek Revival synagogue in Bryan, United States.
Temple Freda is a rectangular brick building with a classical entablature made of pressed metal and a front porch topped by two wooden Corinthian columns. The neoclassical structure displays Greek Revival design elements throughout its composition.
Temple Freda was built in 1912, not 1913, and is named for Ethel Freda Kaczer (1860–1912), whose husband Benjamin Kaczer (1850–1938) presided over the congregation when the synagogue went up. It is one of the three oldest religious buildings still in use in Bryan, alongside St. Andrew's Episcopal Church and St. Anthony's Catholic Church. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 22, 1983.
The building reflects the presence of Jewish settlers who arrived in Bryan during the late 1800s and created businesses and places of worship. Today it serves as a gathering space that connects the community to that heritage.
After restoration work that began in 2013, the building now hosts community events, receptions, and educational activities. Check in advance if public activities are scheduled, as access may be limited to event days rather than regular visiting hours.
Temple Freda is named for Ethel Freda Kaczer (1860–1912), wife of Benjamin Kaczer, who was president of the congregation when the synagogue was built in 1912. The source notes that a Jewish place of worship named after a woman is unusual. The building joined the National Register of Historic Places on September 22, 1983.
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