New Life for the old Downtown Synagogue

UPDATE: Jan. 22, 2015: Downtown Synagogue Renovation gets a $350,000 boost from the William Davison Foundation.

Additionally for every two dollars pledged Davison will kick in two more dollars up to $100,000 as reported by modelD. I also believe they had a previous successful crowd-funding drive that my have another $100K.

It will be great to see this historic synagogue, the only City of Detroit Synagogue to endure, and be a part of the Capitol Park area renaissance.

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Changing times and population movement left the Isaac Agree Memorial Society aka the Downtown Synagogue as the last remaining active synagogue inside the City of Detroit, its numbers diminishing and future uncertain. More at the Lost Synagogues of Detroit website.

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Located in an interesting pie-shaped former department store on Griswold at Clifford, the Downtown Synagogue has been experiencing a revitalization driven by energetic young members committed to the preserving the site, reviving its neighborhood and city.

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Approached from the south, one passes by the exotically-interesting next-door Cafe D'Mongo's whose presence fits nicely with the youthful membership and its activities.

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By vigorously recruiting new like-minded members, a younger contingent assumed positions on the synagogue's board and moved the congregation in a new direction by recruiting involved youth and vigorously organizing events to highlight its presence. They also re-positioned the formerly Conservative shul to an open stance, welcoming all from Reform to Orthodox and opening its doors of worship to everyone, regardless of faith.

"We're a younger, more secular generation," [Leor] Barak says, "We saw this as an opportunity to revitalize Detroit and reconnect with Judaism." [From MetroTimes article by SallyAnn Price]

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Located just off the Capitol Park, site of the first Capitol of Michigan and formerly a posh shopping district, the neighborhood has passed through decades of decay and abandonment. The future is now brightening as the park, which had been used as primarily a bus exchange point, is being renovated. Bus traffic is now diverted to new Rosa Park transit center and the recent restoration of the adjacent Book Cadillac Hotel has added impetus to the area’s renewal. Surrounded by magnificent architecture exemplified here by the Farwell Building [center] its opportunities for full revival are encouraging.

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Looking south from the synagogue, the new loft spaces at Clark Lofts [nine story white building to left], the high-rising orange brick David Stott tower and the Chamber Commerce Building in front of it underline the elegance of this downtown district.

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After sundown last Saturday, the synagogue participated in a block party event with Café D’Mongo and LOVELAND Micro-Real Estate dubbed “The Big Inch Party”. Details here.

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With doors opened wide I took the opportunity to explore this intriguing place. To the left as you enter is a social space where visitors lounged and an artist labored on a large scale art work.

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To the right Detroit-made beverages were offered - MotorCity Brewing beer and Valentine Vodka Bloody Mary’s.

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The stairs to the second floor opened to a foyer space where the building’s distinct colored windows bathe it in colored light.

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Opposite is the sanctuary which was found to be in excellent condition. Power lines strewn on the floor lead to projectors manned by Dan Land and Gabe Hall who were casting light show projections on the colored windows.

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Detail of the bimah.

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The upper two floors are vacant and in disrepair, yet are fascinating and very attractive for their large windows and angles. Restoration of the entire building, which could run north of a half million, foresees conversion of those floors into income-generating spaces.

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The block party roared on into the warm summer night and overflowed into Café D’Mongo's and onto the street.

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Let’s hope and pray for the continued success of the Downtown Synagogue, Capitol Park and our beloved Detroit! Tikkun Olam, Hebrew phrase that means "repairing the world", fits perfectly here.

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When I had my place downtown, I had customers from the synagogue. I went in a few times. It still had quite a few members [[congregants?) though I'm sure that's all relative. I met some of them while lunching next door at what is now D'Mongo's. It had been an old Sero's Coney and though it was operated by Connie and Dale as a small lunch counter, it still had the Sero's name on it.They served very good, fresh, food but were unable to keep it open after about 1984-85. The strip club across the street had been the Mayfield Chop House. Krazy Craig bought it and attempted to keep operating it as a restaurant. After finally giving up, he changed the name to 'Krazy Craig's' [[aptly titled) and operated, along with the Famous Door, just up the street, as a daytime neighborhood bar, nightime gay bar. Along with Shopper's Lounge and the Boston Bar, they comprised a big gay bar scene downtown. It was pretty lively along Griswold but destined to fade with the closings of the aforementioned places as well as Sunnie's. The synagogue would sometimes be open for services while the street scene along Griswold was rocking. It made for an interesting mix of people. Oh, the famous clothing store was also still there. Help me with the name. Was it Kouzen's? And the Wendy's? Taco Bell? At the N.E. corner of Griswold and Grand River. Across from Josh Greenwood's little coffee house in the parking structure.

Fun party last night! The bands were great and everyone had a wonderful time.

I am a congregant there, so it was a little weird to see kegs in the Rabbi's office. Maybe Jjaba put them there.

The view from those top floors must be great. That picture Lowell made shows!

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Changing times and population movement left the Isaac Agree Memorial Society aka the Downtown Synagogue as the last remaining Jewish place of worship in the City of Detroit

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There's a vibrant Jewish Congregation located in Lafayette Park.

In 2000 the Reconstructionist Synoguge of Detroit was established at 1300 East Lafayette which is located in what had been the heart of Detroit's Jewish community in the early 1900's. Its guiding principles include a commitment to maintaining a Jewish presence in Detroit. "Part of RCD's mission is to restore objects connected with Detroit's Jewish heritage, and to make the past come alive through educational programs." [[MI Jewish History, vol. 48, Fall 2000)

Thanks Neilr. I have amended the text to read "last remaining active synagogue". I had heard about the 1300 Lafayette congregation. I should have written that correctly. One can worship anywhere.

So those upper two floors are totally vacant?

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Originally Posted by Neilr

There's a vibrant Jewish Congregation located in Lafayette Park.

In 2000 the Reconstructionist Synoguge of Detroit was established at 1300 East Lafayette which is located in what had been the heart of Detroit's Jewish community in the early 1900's. Its guiding principles include a commitment to maintaining a Jewish presence in Detroit. "Part of RCD's mission is to restore objects connected with Detroit's Jewish heritage, and to make the past come alive through educational programs." [[MI Jewish History, vol. 48, Fall 2000)

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I've never heard of that 1300 Lafayette congreation. Do they have a minyan in an apartment there- or in a store front?

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Originally Posted by 1KielsonDrive

When I had my place downtown, I had customers from the synagogue. I went in a few times. It still had quite a few members [[congregants?) though I'm sure that's all relative. I met some of them while lunching next door at what is now D'Mongo's. It had been an old Sero's Coney and though it was operated by Connie and Dale as a small lunch counter, it still had the Sero's name on it.They served very good, fresh, food but were unable to keep it open after about 1984-85. The strip club across the street had been the Mayfield Chop House. Krazy Craig bought it and attempted to keep operating it as a restaurant. After finally giving up, he changed the name to 'Krazy Craig's' [[aptly titled) and operated, along with the Famous Door, just up the street, as a daytime neighborhood bar, nightime gay bar. Along with Shopper's Lounge and the Boston Bar, they comprised a big gay bar scene downtown. It was pretty lively along Griswold but destined to fade with the closings of the aforementioned places as well as Sunnie's. The synagogue would sometimes be open for services while the street scene along Griswold was rocking. It made for an interesting mix of people. Oh, the famous clothing store was also still there. Help me with the name. Was it Kouzen's? And the Wendy's? Taco Bell? At the N.E. corner of Griswold and Grand River. Across from Josh Greenwood's little coffee house in the parking structure.

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Clothing store was called Kosins. It was owned by two brothers, Harry and Benny Kosins. They sold mens furnishings. They were open in the city of Southfield on Southfield Road for years.

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Originally Posted by softailrider

Clothing store was called Kosins. It was owned by two brothers, Harry and Benny Kosins. They sold mens furnishings. They were open in the city of Southfield on Southfield Road for years.

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Yeah, that's it. Thanks softailrider. I bought clothing from Kosins Griswold store before they closed. And I remember seeing their store on Southfield Road.

If Comerica Park had not been built, I would not have known of this place.I am not Jewish or do I live Downtown. Best of Luck to those in the congregation.
As for the Kosins connection, All I can say is Kosins with a K , Chuck Daly was their pitchman I belive.

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Originally Posted by softailrider

I've never heard of that 1300 Lafayette congreation. Do they have a minyan in an apartment there- or in a store front?

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The Reconstructionist Congregation is located on the mezzanine level of 1300 East Lafayette.

DetroitDad,

1st Floor- Social Hall & Office
2nd Floor- Sanctuary
3rd & 4th Floors- Now empty, formerly more offices & study rooms
Basement- Scary with a kitchen

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Originally Posted by 1KielsonDrive

Yeah, that's it. Thanks softailrider. I bought clothing from Kosins Griswold store before they closed. And I remember seeing their store on Southfield Road.

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Betterhalf worked for Kosins years ago.

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Originally Posted by 1KielsonDrive

When I had my place downtown, I had customers from the synagogue. I went in a few times. It still had quite a few members [[congregants?) though I'm sure that's all relative. I met some of them while lunching next door at what is now D'Mongo's. It had been an old Sero's Coney and though it was operated by Connie and Dale as a small lunch counter, it still had the Sero's name on it.They served very good, fresh, food but were unable to keep it open after about 1984-85. The strip club across the street had been the Mayfield Chop House. Krazy Craig bought it and attempted to keep operating it as a restaurant. After finally giving up, he changed the name to 'Krazy Craig's' [[aptly titled) and operated, along with the Famous Door, just up the street, as a daytime neighborhood bar, nightime gay bar. Along with Shopper's Lounge and the Boston Bar, they comprised a big gay bar scene downtown. It was pretty lively along Griswold but destined to fade with the closings of the aforementioned places as well as Sunnie's. The synagogue would sometimes be open for services while the street scene along Griswold was rocking. It made for an interesting mix of people. Oh, the famous clothing store was also still there. Help me with the name. Was it Kouzen's? And the Wendy's? Taco Bell? At the N.E. corner of Griswold and Grand River. Across from Josh Greenwood's little coffee house in the parking structure.

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Interesting history. Hopefully the strip can become vibrant again. I stopped in the synagogue a while back for some functiona and was made to feel welcom, was offered food and drink and given a tour.I was also handed some literature that detailed the history of the Synagogue.

I'm glad the Downtown Synagogue still makes its spot in Downtown Detroit. Unlike other Jewish Detroit neighborhood synagogues pack up their congregations and their Torahs and left for Oakland County Cities.

There still a few Jewish folks left in Detroit, they are not long gone, yet.

congrats Rel, I know you have worked hard to bring the synagogue back to life. From the pix it looks like you're succeeding.

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Originally Posted by 1KielsonDrive

When I had my place downtown, I had customers from the synagogue. I went in a few times. It still had quite a few members [[congregants?) though I'm sure that's all relative. I met some of them while lunching next door at what is now D'Mongo's. It had been an old Sero's Coney and though it was operated by Connie and Dale as a small lunch counter, it still had the Sero's name on it.They served very good, fresh, food but were unable to keep it open after about 1984-85. The strip club across the street had been the Mayfield Chop House. Krazy Craig bought it and attempted to keep operating it as a restaurant. After finally giving up, he changed the name to 'Krazy Craig's' [[aptly titled) and operated, along with the Famous Door, just up the street, as a daytime neighborhood bar, nightime gay bar. Along with Shopper's Lounge and the Boston Bar, they comprised a big gay bar scene downtown. It was pretty lively along Griswold but destined to fade with the closings of the aforementioned places as well as Sunnie's. The synagogue would sometimes be open for services while the street scene along Griswold was rocking. It made for an interesting mix of people. Oh, the famous clothing store was also still there. Help me with the name. Was it Kouzen's? And the Wendy's? Taco Bell? At the N.E. corner of Griswold and Grand River. Across from Josh Greenwood's little coffee house in the parking structure.

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What kind of business did you own?

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Originally Posted by Neilr

The Reconstructionist Congregation is located on the mezzanine level of 1300 East Lafayette.

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This is the first I've heard about it. Do they have Friday night or Saturday morning services?

Its quite an interesting and striking building. I would love to see it restored.

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Originally Posted by softailrider

This is the first I've heard about it. Do they have Friday night or Saturday morning services?

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I don't know. I'm not a member of the Reconstructionist Congregation.

Can Is still party there even though I'm not Jewish?

Is Reconstructionist the same branch of Judaism that Rabbi Wine from Birmingham sort of established?

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Originally Posted by Blarf

Can Is still party there even though I'm not Jewish?

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Sounds like it, if they let Terry in. [[I don't think Lowell is Jewish either.)

Cool door handles.

It's a beautiful building, best of wishes for their success reviving it for the future.

How many of those pie-shaped buildings are left downtown? There is the synogogue, the coney islands on Lafayette, that way cool old building in Cadillac Square. Any others?

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Originally Posted by kryptonite

It's a beautiful building, best of wishes for their success reviving it for the future.

How many of those pie-shaped buildings are left downtown? There is the synogogue, the coney islands on Lafayette, that way cool old building in Cadillac Square. Any others?

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GAR Building; Harmonie Park Building & Milner Hotel; Harmonie Park Music Bldg; Metropolitan Building has a triangular rear...

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Originally Posted by kryptonite

Is Reconstructionist the same branch of Judaism that Rabbi Wine from Birmingham sort of established?

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That's Humanist Judaism. Don't know if it's still around.

Really beautiful! Great job!

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Originally Posted by Gsgeorge

GAR Building; Harmonie Park Building & Milner Hotel; Harmonie Park Music Bldg; Metropolitan Building has a triangular rear...

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Cool, those types of buildings are fascinating. In addition to the Synagogue renewal, the Cadillac Square pie-shape bldg is occupied again, at least the ground floor was. Those buildings really are architectural gems.

I saw one in San Francisco in April that was beautiful but sometime in the 70's it looks like someone designed a ghastly addition that was totally gruesome. I wish I had taken a picture of it it was so ugly.

Detroit's triangular buildings primarily seem salvageable. It's so nice to hear about interest in the synagogue, it may be one of the country's most uniqe.

This building wasn't always a Synagogue. It was previously a branch of the Central Cigar Co. It does have sort of a factory vibe.

Back in the late 1960's, I attended the Elsa Cooper School of Court Reporting which was across the street in a triangular-shaped building. We were told that the space we were in had been the downtown synagogue before they moved across the street. Also used to go to Sero's for carry-out - good matzo ball [[sp?) soup. I don't think Sero's was a coney at that time.

love it! thanks for posting. Mozel tov!

UPDATE: Jan. 22, 2015: Downtown Synagogue renovation gets a $350,000 boost from the William Davison Foundation.


Additionally for every two dollars pledged Davison will kick in two more dollars up to $100,000 as reported by ModelD. I also believe they had a previous successful crowd-funding drive that my have another $100K.


It will be great to see this historic synagogue, the only City of Detroit Synagogue to endure, and become a part of the Capitol Park area and downtown renaissance.

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Originally Posted by Lowell

UPDATE: Jan. 22, 2015: Downtown Synagogue renovation gets a $350,000 boost from the William Davison Foundation.


Additionally for every two dollars pledged Davison will kick in two more dollars up to $100,000 as reported by ModelD. I also believe they had a previous successful crowd-funding drive that my have another $100K.


It will be great to see this historic synagogue, the only City of Detroit Synagogue to endure, and become a part of the Capitol Park area and downtown renaissance.

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I would be happy to donate but not sure where or how to make sure matching funds will be credited.

Wish I could, as well. My old friends from the "world" band used to practice in their loft at 1217 Griswold [[lived next to the guys that played in the Hillside Stranglers) around the block, not far from a cramped used paperback store there. I used to bring them food from Jerusalem Pizza. Which reminds me...

So, I donated to the good folks at the downtown synagogue today, however, similar to what sumas pointed out, I found the process of identifying matching funds to be completely opaque. In other words, it felt like I was just tossing my $ down a black hole with no idea how I was contributing to the overall fundraising target [[what is the target??) or that my funds were being matched.

Now, don't misunderstand me, I have full faith that my donation will go to good use. What I am concerned about is that the fundraising effort is not being publicized properly to ensure achievement of the full grant-match dollars from the Davidson Foundation.

I believe previously they had used indiegogo.com to raise $60k... is there something out there for tracking this funding drive?? There is not even anything on their Fb page. This really surprises me.

Does someone who attends this synagogue or who was at the block party know what the deal is or who is in charge of fundraising there?

Perhaps I am just missing something here, but I would just hate to see this worthy organization/cause "leave money on the table."

https://thejewishnews.com/2022/07/26...uction-begins/

Do any of you locals know how work is progressing on the Downtown Synagogue? I used to walk past it in the ‘80’s and I was always intrigued by the building. Back then I thought the colored windows were a bit tacky but I’ve come to love them.

They have removed the first floor brick wall and replaced it with storefront windows. Looking through the windows you can see construction continuing on the first floor. Colored windows are gone from the first floor but can't remember if they were still there on the second floor. Converting the third and fourth floors to apartments might work. Offer one of them to a manager.

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Originally Posted by royce

They have removed the first floor brick wall and replaced it with storefront windows. Looking through the windows you can see construction continuing on the first floor. Colored windows are gone from the first floor but can't remember if they were still there on the second floor. Converting the third and fourth floors to apartments might work. Offer one of them to a manager.

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I just saw a recent photo with the first floor windows. I love every time I see windows going back into a building. The building suddenly is so much more welcoming.

The synagogue’s Facebook page shows that the colored windows have recently been installed at the upper portion of the large ground floor windows. They appear to have been installed on the inside of the existing windows, so they are less obvious than the second story windows when looking at the exterior of the building.

>Is Reconstructionist the same branch of Judaism that Rabbi Wine from >Birmingham sort of established?

No. That was Humanist Judaism.

A big problem with that synagogue is parking. At any of the suburban shuls in this area you park in their lot for free and walk in. I believe that is going to preclude the Downtown Synagogue from holding High Holiday services at that building, unless they work out that issue.

I'm aware of the former synagogue when they hold the High Holiday services now, on Woodward south of Clairmont. It was a very beautiful synagogue at one time. There is some parking there now, but the building is quite delipidated, the seating is very poor and the building lacks air conditioning.

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Originally Posted by softailrider

A big problem with that synagogue is parking. At any of the suburban shuls in this area you park in their lot for free and walk in. I believe that is going to preclude the Downtown Synagogue from holding High Holiday services at that building, unless they work out that issue.

I'm aware of the former synagogue when they hold the High Holiday services now, on Woodward south of Clairmont. It was a very beautiful synagogue at one time. There is some parking there now, but the building is quite delipidated, the seating is very poor and the building lacks air conditioning.

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There’s a parking lot across the street, one across the alley, a parking garage at the south end of the block and plenty of street parking in the area. I don’t think parking is as big a problem as you think. The synagogue could work out a parking plan with one of the lots or the garage if it’s really that big of an issue.

^^ Those who come downtown to worship, no matter the denomination, have to deal with parking issues as many of them do not have a dedicated parking lot. Part of the choice of worshipping downtown.

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Originally Posted by NSortzi

There’s a parking lot across the street, one across the alley, a parking garage at the south end of the block and plenty of street parking in the area. I don’t think parking is as big a problem as you think. The synagogue could work out a parking plan with one of the lots or the garage if it’s really that big of an issue.

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Right, I know there's plenty of pay parking lots in the area. I don't think that's going to work for the High Holiday services. I think the persons involved with that synagogue know that. There was some chatter about a plan with one of the lots in the area, not sure what happened with that idea.