A Tribute to historic B’nai Jacob Synagogue
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Nestled in Middletown in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, B’nai Jacob Synagogue stands as a historic and welcoming cornerstone of Jewish life. Built in 1906 by Middletown’s Jewish community, it remains the town’s first and only synagogue and is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2026, the congregation marks 122 years of continuous existence, making it the oldest continuously used synagogue in Dauphin County.
My deepest gratitude extends to Lawrence Kapenstein, whose generosity and warmth made this tribute possible.
A Living History
Founded in 1904, B’nai Jacob began as an Orthodox congregation and remained so for 90 years. In 1994, it transitioned into an egalitarian Conservative synagogue—blending the traditions of Conservative Judaism with a full commitment to gender equality in all aspects of congregational life.
Remarkably, for over a century, the synagogue has remained active, holding services at least once a month—a testament to the dedication and resilience of its members.
A commemorative video marking the 120th anniversary of the synagogue may be found on the synagogue's website. The video features 14 voices from the community, including current members and descendants of the original founders, preserving the synagogue’s story for future generations.
Founders and Legacy
The congregation’s founder was Eliazar Zacks, who died in the 1919 Spanish flu pandemic. His son, Jacob was 6 years old when his farther passed away. Jacob, along with his sister Lena, promised their mother that they would take care of "dad's synagogue" for the rest of their lives. They kept that promise. Jacob, for 90 years, dedicated his life to the upkeep of the synagogue until his death in 2009. He is honored with a memorial plaque. His lasting generosity included the donation of two neighboring homes to the congregation, further strengthening its foundation.
Sacred Space and Architecture
The sanctuary reflects both tradition and architectural beauty. The bimah—the raised platform from which the Torah is read—stands at the center, emphasizing communal participation.
The Holy Ark, positioned on the eastern wall, directs prayer toward Jerusalem. It is framed by a striking neoclassical design, with columns supporting a horizontal entablature—an elegant nod to classical architectural forms.
Within the ark are three Torah scrolls. One, over 250 years old, was brought from Lithuania by early immigrants, carried on a boat. As Arthur Berman shared, “My grandmother, Leah Krauss, bought the first Torah, and it is still there.”
Community Spaces and Traditions
The Singer Family Social Hall, once a mikvah—a ritual bath used for spiritual purification—now serves as a gathering place for community events, symbolizing the building’s evolving role in congregational life.
The sanctuary also reflects its Orthodox roots, with a traditional separation of seating: the main floor historically designated for men and a balcony for women. In 1921, an imposing entry stoop with parallel staircases was added, enhancing both access and architectural presence.
A Community Rooted in Heritage
In the late 1800s, a cadre of Lithuanian Jews, many from small villages near Panevezys in north-central Lithuania, immigrated to the United States and settled in the then little known rural town of Middleton. These settlers from Lithuania choose Middleton for its similarity to their home town villages as well the city's proximity to the Pennsylvania Railroad. There were no Jewish organizations prior to the building of the synagogue, yet these settlers adhered to Eastern European Orthodox practice.
The historic B’nai Jacob Synagogue was built in 1906 at the intersection of Nissley and Water streets. The synagogue is Middletown’s first and only synagogue. The building was designed and personally constructed by its charter members
Interfaith Connections and Modern Resilience
For many years, the congregation participated in interfaith Thanksgiving services alongside clergy from across Middletown, reflecting a spirit of unity and mutual respect. In the wake of the October 7 attacks, the broader Middletown community showed its support by sending flowers to the synagogue—a meaningful gesture of solidarity and compassion.
B’nai Jacob Synagogue is more than a historic building—it is a living testament to generations of faith, adaptation, and community. From its Lithuanian roots to its present-day egalitarian spirit, it continues to embody both continuity and change, standing proudly as a beacon of Jewish life in Middletown.
Contact Information:
B'nai Jacob Synagogue, 220 Nissley St. Middletown, PA 17057
Website: bnai-jacob.org
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