Beth Israel Synagogue (Roanoke, Virginia) Explained

Building Name:Beth Israel
Native Name:Hebrew: בית ישראל
Image Upright:1.4
Map Type:USA Virginia
Map Size:250
Map Relief:1
Location:920 Franklin Road, Roanoke, Virginia
Country:United States
Coordinates:37.2648°N -79.9459°W
Religious Affiliation:Conservative Judaism
Status:Synagogue
Functional Status:Active
Leadership:Rabbi Fabian Werbin
Architect:Frye and Stone
Architecture Type:Synagogue
Architecture Style:Classical Revival
Established:1900
Year Completed:1925
Materials:Brick

Beth Israel Synagogue (Hebrew: בית ישראל) is a Conservative synagogue located at 920 Franklin Road in Roanoke, Virginia, in the United States. The synagogue was founded in 1900, and as of 2009, it had a membership of approximately 160 families and individuals.[1]

The 1925 building, designed by Frye and Stone, combines Classical Revival features in an unusual and rather severe design. A two-story Ionic portico, with an entablature, is engaged with and centered on the stepped gabled and parapeted façade. Doors and windows occupy each of the bays between the columns. A small Star of David occupies the gable.[2]

In 2007 the synagogue completed an expansion and renovation of its building, carefully planned so that the original facade, part of Roanoke's Old Southwest historic district, was unaltered.[3]

Rabbi Fabian Werbin commenced in 2008.[1]

Further reading

Notes and References

  1. http://www.bethisraelroanoke.org/ Synagogue website
  2. Web site: Carter Lee, Anne . Beth Israel Synagogue . SAH Archipedia . Society of Architectural Historians . 2023 . November 18, 2023.
  3. Podger, Pamela J. "Beth Israel Synagogue: Returning in joy; The congregation of Beth Israel Synagogue celebrated the completion of a yearlong renovation", The Roanoke Times, August 27, 2007.