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The Eldridge Street Synagogue (1887) was the first grand synagogue built in the United States by Eastern European Jews. If other Lower East Side synagogues predate it—the Bialystock (1826), the Anshe Chesed (1849) and the structure that now houses the Angel Orensanz Foundation Center (1849)—none approach Eldridge Street for sheer architectural extravagance. Its façade mixes Moorish features with a Gothic wheel window reminiscent of the great European cathedrals. The main sanctuary has a 70-foot-high vaulted ceiling with stained glass windows, elaborate brass fixtures and hand-stenciled walls.

The synagogue’s peak use was at the beginning of the 20th century. Then more than 1,000 worshippers regularly observed the High Holidays. By the 1930s, Eldridge Street steadily began to lose worshippers to other parts of the city and the synagogue gradually fell into disrepair.

In the 1980s, a preservation campaign began which has restored Eldridge Street to its original state and also established a program of public talks and concerts which help keep alive the 19th-century building and the ancient traditions it embodies.

Lost and Found Music seeks to reclaim musical works at risk of disappearing, by presenting and interpreting them for a general audience. The sanctuary’s fine acoustics continue to accommodate some of the music world’s leading performers, from Jewish singers of cantorial and Yiddish melodies to klezmer and classical musicians.

The Garden Cafeteria Literary Series was named for the famed Lower East Side eatery which was once a hotbed of literary and political discourse. Readings, lectures and discussions feature writers whose work touches upon themes relevant to Eldridge Street—tales of immigration, spiritual journeys, the tension between cultural legacies and modern life and the continuity of family and faith.

The Building and Rebuilding lecture series offers perspectives on architectural and historic preservation of interest to both specialists and the general public. The sessions are led by guest speakers including members of the Eldridge Street Project’s own restoration team.

Readings and lectures feature leading writers, scholars and performers addressing similar themes. Concerts reflect Eastern European traditions and include both historical works and contemporary compositions influenced by them. The extraordinary architecture and dramatic interior provide a unique setting for site-specific multimedia, sound, visual and sculptural art installations by established and emerging artists.

Recognizing the transformation of Eldridge Street's neighborhood over the past century, the Egg Rolls & Egg Creams festival celebrates Chinese and Jewish cultural traditions.

Programs for Seniors
Docents in the Visiting Docents program go to senior centers, hospices and homes for the aged to provide a one-hour slide lecture about the museum.
 

• Landmark Status: National Register of Historic Places, New York City Landmark
• Directions: Subway: F to East Broadway

• Space Rental
• Tours: Guided tours of 1887 Eldridge Street Synagogue, a National Historic Landmark. Guided tours in Chinese, French, German, Hebrew and Russian can be scheduled in advance; there are print guides available in French, German, Italian and Spanish.
• ADA Compliant Restrooms
• Disability Access: Wheelchair accessible
• Disability Assistance: The museum conducts synagogue tours for people with disabilities and has materials for the vision-impaired.
• Gift Shops: Books and gift items

Get involved with Museum at Eldridge Street

• Donations through Museum at Eldridge Street's Web site
• Volunteer Opportunities