The
Synagogue: This outstanding Greek
Revival style building was constructed in 1840 by member David Lopez from a
design by architects Tappan and Noble and work plans by C. L.Warner. It
replaces a 1794 cupolated Georgian style structure destroyed by fire in
1838. The temple grounds are fronted by a graceful
iron fence dating from the 1794 synagogue. Also surviving are the
bases of the two candelabras on either side of the
alter. The large marble tablet above the huge entrance doors proclaims the
Sh'ma in Hebrew and an unusual English translation: "Hear O Israel the Lord
Our God is the sole Eternal Being." In the foyer over the entrance to
the sanctuary is the original dedication stone from the 1794 synagogue. A
controversial organ was installed in the balcony at the rear of the sanctuary.
Housing our four Torah
scrolls, the massive ark, which by tradition
is kept open throughout worship services, is made of Santo Domingo mahogany.
Stained glass windows, which show Jewish religious symbols, date from 1886 and
are replacements of windows destroyed in the earthquake of that year.
The interior of the synagogue, originally following a
traditional Sephardic arrangement, was altered first in 1879 with the
installation of family pews and the removal of the pulpit to the front of the
sanctuary. Then, in 1886, after the earthquake, balconies on both sides of
the building were removed and the altar reconfigured.
The Congregation in 2003 received the prestigious Carolopolis
Award for exterior preservation.
Pearlstine Hall: Parallel to the length of the temple stands the building formerly called the Bicentennial Tabernacle, which was erected in 1950 during the 200th anniversary celebration of the congregation. This building replaced the temporary structure hurriedly built after the 1838 fire, but which remain in use for 111 years! The current building houses the religious school, our administrative offices, the library, the Chosen Treasures Gift Shop and the spacious social hall and kitchen. During 2001-2003 this was all renovated and expanded. The original cornerstones were located over the entrance way into the Pearlstine Hall. In the social hall two large murals painted by Charleston artist William Halsey portray founders and patriots of the congregation, and a pair of wrought iron sculptures of Biblical prophets are by the late Willard Hirsch. The building is named for Milton Pearlstine and Edwin Pearlstine, Jr.
The Archives Museum: The temple museum will contain historically important documents, minute books, photographs and other memorabilia, as well as ceremonial objects and paintings including a fine canvas by the adventurer artist Solomon Nunes Carvalho which depicts the stately 18th century synagogue. The museum is currently closed awaiting future renovation and construction.
The Heyman Building: The reconditioned and expanded 18th century residence to the rear of the temple at 86 Hasell Street contains a youth lounge and supplemental classrooms. This was also recently renovated in 2003.
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The Coming Street Cemetery: America's largest colonial Jewish cemetery is located at 189 Corning Street. Revolutionary soldiers' graves are tended here, as well as those of many distinguished Charleston families. The cemetery is opened only by special request. Current burials are in the Huguenin Avenue Cemetery. Click here to learn more about this historically significant cemetery at Coming Street. |
Other points of Jewish interest in Charleston.
Downtown Sites: A memorial to the patriot Francis Salvador may be seen in nearby City Hall Park. The original home of the Hebrew Orphan Society is at 88 Broad Street and although now an office building, the old Hebrew inscription can still be viewed on the facade above the second story. The most famous alumnus was Judah P. Benjamin, law U.S. Senator and then Attorney General, Secretary of War, and Secretary of State of the Confederacy.
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