1846 - The dedication of Anshe Chesed's Eagle Street Synagogue

Cleveland's Jews, wanting to be accepted in their new land, would invite public figures and the press to major events. They may have modified what was said and done, aware they were informing many not present. The larger community was also interested, for we find remarkably rich reporting of Jewish holidays and events. This account of the dedication of Cleveland's first synagogue is the first of many Plain Dealer reports, so important as the first Jewish newspaper, slim and published only on Fridays, would not appear until 1889.

The wonderfully detailed description of the Eagle Street Synagogue dedication service that appeared in the Plain Dealer of Friday June 7, 1846 gives us a view of the service that would otherwise be lost.

Generally prayers would be recited in Hebrew' with German, the daily language of Cleveland's early Jews, used for any announcements, readings and the sermon. We don't know if this service, which was open to all with a notice placed in the Plain Dealer and perhaps in the city's three other papers, were an exception, recited and sung in English. Or had an English translation been prepared for reporters and other visitors. Any change from the usual format would show Anshe Chesed's desire to have its services understood by the community.

The last paragraph shows respect for the People of the Book with their ancient customs, but ends viewing them as "deluded" and resisting Christianity.
To read this on the Plain Dealer's web archive, click here.

Top of Page     In Pursuit of the Plaque     Synagogues     CJH Home