JCRS Isaac Solomon Historic Synagogue Foundation Records

Collection

Identifier: B353

Staff Only

Abstract

The Isaac Solomon Historic Synagogue Foundation was founded in 2001 with a mission to restore the Beth Jacob Synagogue building and a tent structure on the former campus of the Jewish Consumptives' Relief Society (JCRS) in Lakewood, Colorado. The Foundation was dissolved in 2013 due to financial challenges. This collection shows the process and challenges of historic preservation. Collection contains correspondence, architectural and construction information, historical background materials, publicity, special events, photographs, financial and legal documents, model of the synagogue, and audio visual materials.

Dates

circa 1957-2012

Creator

JCRS Isaac Solomon Historic Synagogue Foundation (Organization)

Biographical / Historical

The Isaac Solomon Historic Synagogue Foundation was founded in 2001 with a mission to restore the Beth Jacob Synagogue building and a tent structure on the former campus of the Jewish Consumptives' Relief Society (JCRS) in Lakewood, Colorado. It was hoped that the restored synagogue could serve as a museum and events center. The JCRS sanatorium treated mostly Eastern European Jewish tuberculosis patients, and the synagogue played a crucial role in sanatorium life. The original 1911 structure was replaced in 1926 after a fire in 1920 and is among the oldest equipped synagogues in the Denver area. It was the first Jewish house of worship in Jefferson County. The restored tent structure is a furnished example of patient accommodations. The Foundation board of directors, headed by Bernard and Susan Goldman, negotiated leases with the JCRS successors, the AMC Cancer Research Center and Hospital (AMC) and the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD). The Foundation also conducted a historic assessment, raised funds from grants and donations, and completed limited restorations. The Foundation was dissolved in 2013 due to financial challenges. This collection shows the process and challenges of historic preservation.

Extent

6.25 Linear Feet (5 containers) : 2 record boxes, 2 print boxes and one custom blue board box

Additional Description

Scope and Contents

This collection shows the process and challenges of historic preservation. Collection contains correspondence, architectural and construction information, historical background materials, publicity, special events, photographs, financial and legal documents, model of the synagogue, and audio visual materials.