Touro Synagogue

I had headed to Newport to explore its coastline, but accidental discoveries are what make travel fun. I found coffee and lunch downtown and was wandering past the synagogue (which I had only learned of the night before) when I heard a tour guide mention to someone else that there was still room on the last tour of the afternoon.

The synagogue was conceived in the mid-1700s by Jews that had left the Caribbean for the religious tolerance of the Rhode Island Colony. It was built in 1763, which makes it the oldest synagogue in the United States. The building survived the Revolution (as a British Hospital), but its members scattered after the war, and it wasn't until later in the 19th century that a new congregation began worshipping there again.

Touro Synagogue has become a symbol of religious tolerance in the United States. In 1790, in response to concerns about how religious minorities might be treated under the newly formed American government, George Washington wrote a powerful letter to local Jews condemning bigotry and persecution and underscoring the government's support for all citizens (letter). Interesting historic perspective - this is prior to the ratification of the Bill of Rights - but clearly this issue was on the mind of President Washington.

I was intrigued by the colonial architectural influences - it felt like a New England town hall, but with a bimah in the center, a lot of candles, and a deerskin Torah.