Congregation Beth Ahabah

Congregation Beth Ahabah is a synagogue in Richmond featuring Romanesque Revival architecture with round arches, stone masonry, and prominent windows throughout its structure. The building also houses a museum with archives that collect materials on Jewish history and traditions in the region.

The congregation was founded in 1789 and relocated to its current building on West Franklin Street in the early 1900s. This move marked an important phase in the development of the city's more established Jewish institutions.

The congregation reflects the long history of the Jewish community in Richmond, and its spaces tell stories of immigration, family, and religious practice across generations. Visitors can see how this community has preserved and passed down its identity.

The museum and archives can be visited by appointment to access genealogical and historical documents. It is advisable to plan ahead and arrange a time if you wish to explore the facility's collections.

The building preserves a Holocaust Torah that connects Richmond to European Jewish history. This artifact serves as a quiet reminder of the local community's connection to global Jewish experiences.