First Roumanian-American congregation

The three-story brick building at 89-93 Rivington Street features rounded arches, decorative stonework, and a large central entrance accommodating 1,800 worshippers.

Founded in 1885, the congregation purchased and renovated a former Protestant church in 1902, transforming it into a center for Romanian Jewish immigrants.

The synagogue earned recognition as 'Cantor's Carnegie Hall' due to its superior acoustics, attracting notable cantors including Yossele Rosenblatt and Moshe Koussevitzky.

The structure sustained water damage in 2005, leading to roof collapse in 2006, which resulted in the relocation of services and subsequent demolition.

Actor Edward G. Robinson celebrated his Bar Mitzvah at this synagogue in 1906, marking one of many significant ceremonies held within its walls.

Location: Manhattan

Architects: J. Cleaveland Cady

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.72000,-73.98889

Latest update: March 3, 2025 05:04