Grahamstown synagogue page
History
Located on Hill Street, the Grahamstown Synagogue was built by Moore Bros. and designed by architect C.T.D. Lindsey, with construction commencing in 1911 and concluding in 1913. Reverend A.P. Bender of Cape Town laid the foundation stone and it was officially consecrated in 1914 by Reverend A. Levy of Port Elizabeth.
Over the years, the site underwent several expansions to serve its growing community:
- 1927: The front of the building was updated with £58 worth of alterations.
- 1939: The community purchased the neighbouring Masonic Hall for £600. It was transformed into a communal hub that could hold 200 people and included dedicated rooms for the local Jewish school (cheder) and Jewish Women's Organisation.
- 1953: A permanent sukkah was added behind the hall. It was donated by Abraham and Hymie Radomsky in memory of their wife and mother, Fanny Lily Radomsky.
Architectural design and interior
The synagogue was described as a "handsome structure" that favoured an artistic effect through simplicity rather than ornate detail.
- Structure: The main hall measured 50 feet by 30 feet and featured a roof built on a "cove system". A prominent highlight of the interior was the large, exposed Jarrah wood beams that formed the primary roof timbers.
- Seating and layout: The building provided seating for approximately 150 people. A wood-panelled gallery, supported by pitch pine columns, ran along the north, south, and west walls.
- Windows and lighting: The gallery was lit by circular windows, with additional circular leaded windows below. All these windows were glazed with a soft amber tint to create a specific interior atmosphere. The west end gable featured a large three-light window, while the east end had a single circular window.
- Materials: All entrance doors were made of oiled teak.
As the local Jewish population declined, the communal hall and sukkah were eventually sold in 1994.
See also an article on the synagogue that contains much more architectural detail and numerous photos.
