Maryland has a rich Jewish heritage that spans over three centuries, with the first Jewish settlers arriving in Annapolis in 1658. Today, Maryland is home to a vibrant Jewish community with numerous synagogues, museums, and festivals celebrating Jewish culture and history. Whether you’re a visitor or a local resident, here’s a guide to Maryland’s Jewish heritage.
Synagogues
Maryland is home to many synagogues, from the traditional to the modern. Here are some of the most prominent:
Baltimore Hebrew Congregation
Founded in 1830, the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation is one of the oldest Reform Jewish congregations in the United States. Today, it has over 1,300 member families and is known for its commitment to social justice and community service.
Beth Shalom Congregation
Located in Columbia, Maryland, Beth Shalom Congregation is a Conservative Jewish synagogue that serves over 400 families. It offers a wide range of programs for all ages, including religious education, social events, and community service projects.
Chabad Lubavitch of Maryland
Chabad Lubavitch of Maryland is a Hasidic Jewish organization that provides educational, religious, and social resources to the Maryland Jewish community. It has several locations throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Silver Spring, and Annapolis.
Museums
Maryland has several museums that showcase the history and culture of the Jewish people. Here are some of the most notable:
Jewish Museum of Maryland
Located in Baltimore’s historic Jonestown neighborhood, the Jewish Museum of Maryland is the only museum in the United States dedicated to telling the story of Jewish life in Maryland. It has exhibits on everything from the earliest Jewish settlers to contemporary Jewish culture and history.
Lloyd Street Synagogue
Part of the Jewish Museum of Maryland, the Lloyd Street Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in Maryland, dating back to 1845. It was the first American synagogue built outside of a major urban area and serves as an example of the early American synagogue architecture.
National Museum of American Jewish History
Though not located in Maryland, the National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia is worth a visit for those interested in Jewish history. It provides a comprehensive look at the Jewish experience in America and features artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits.
Festivals
Maryland hosts several Jewish festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from Jewish food to music and culture. Here are some of the most popular:
Baltimore Jewish Film Festival
The Baltimore Jewish Film Festival, held in the spring, showcases thought-provoking films from around the world that explore Jewish culture and history. It is held at several locations throughout Baltimore and attracts both Jewish and non-Jewish audiences.
Jewish Food Festival
The Jewish Food Festival, held in the fall, is a celebration of Jewish cuisine and culture. It features traditional Jewish foods like latkes, challah, and pastrami, as well as live music, dance performances, and activities for all ages.
Hampdenfest
Though not exclusively a Jewish festival, Hampdenfest in Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood often features Jewish vendors selling traditional Jewish foods and crafts. It also features live music, street performers, and a wide range of activities for all ages.
Final Thoughts
Maryland’s Jewish heritage is rich and varied, with numerous synagogues, museums, and festivals celebrating Jewish culture and history. Whether you’re a visitor or a local resident, there’s much to explore and learn about Maryland’s vibrant Jewish community.