History and News Articles
ABI in the news
A
Brief History of Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel
In
the 1860's, the beginnings of Boise's Jewish Community existed in the early
mining camps. As Boise became settled, Jewish people met in private homes
to celebrate the Holidays. In 1895, a group of 25 Jewish residents of Boise
joined together to form Congregation Beth Israel.
The building which houses
Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel today has a long history and illustrious
history in Boise and the State of Idaho. It is considered the oldest synagogue
west of the Mississippi River in continuous use since 1896, the year that
it was built. The building, which is a Moorish design was restored and rededicated
in 1982.
About the time of World
War I, several Jewish families joined together to form Congregation Ahavath
Israel. In 1947, their synagogue was built at the corner of 27th and Bannock
Streets.
In the the summer of
1986, both congregations come together as one, forming Ahavath Beth Israel.
The congregation is composed of approximately 210 families, has a full
time Rabbi and is the center for Judaism in Idaho.
The former building of
Ahavath Israel serves as a Religious School and Synagogue Office.
ABI in the News
10-07-2003
The Idaho Statesman - Rich history marks Boise synagogue
09-29-2003
The Idaho Statesman - A Synagogue on the move: Historic building will serve a
growing at a new place
06-18-2003
The Idaho Statesman - Deli Days
has Jewish sweets, kosher meats
12-16-2002
The Idaho Statesman - Boise Synagogue will begin its move in spring
06-19-2002
Deli
Delights- Sample homemade Jewish treats at this annual event
04-09-2002
The Idaho Statesman - Boise synagogue one of West's oldest
Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations (UAHC).
