Historic Catskill Synagogues

 

In the early years of the twentieth century Jews began arriving in Ulster and Sullivan counties. Their intent, to escape the heat, poverty and crowding of New York City and become farmers.  Thousands came and soon each community took to building a synagogue.  Most were very small and copied the Eastern European style of their homelands.  However,  some of the exteriors also reflected the popular Mission style of the day and incorporated stucco and false facades.  Around the turn of the twenty-first century, several  were added to the National Register of Historic Places.  Some are used only on the High Holidays, others  only in the summer and a few continue as year round congregations.  

An auto-tour  has been organized to provide a glimpse of some of the better preserved synagogue buildings. Included is contact information where available.  A few have regular services and will welcome you warmly;   All evoke a bygone era when Jewish life in the Catskills was thriving.