Synagogue for the Arts:
Location: 49 White Street, New York, NY, 10013
Denomination: Jewish
Founded: 1938

To say that the Synagogue for the Arts stands out on White Street is an understatement. Its gorgeous architecture immediately draws pedestrians to the building; I for one was surprised that it is actually a synagogue rather than a museum or simply a fancy residence. This house of worship is full of vibrancy and life, as evidenced before you even walk in the front door.

History
District Attorney Thomas E. Dewey, who “saw a need to provide a place of prayer for Jewish commuters working in the downtown area,” founded the Civic Center Synagogue in 1938. The synagogue initially held services in a loft space above a store before relocating to 80 Duane St. in 1957. However, the church soon fell victim to an eminent domain claim, and thus found its current home on White Street.
The Synagogue wonderfully represents the changing demographic of the Financial District: as many more Jewish families moved into SoHo and TriBeCa during the 1980’s, the temple renamed itself the Synagogue for the Arts to reflect the vibrant, changing community. With a Gallery, youth programs, and regular events and concerts, the Synagogue for the Arts is undoubtedly an important part of Lower Manhattan.

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