File:Beth Israel Synagogue - East A Street.jpg

Summary

Beth Israel Synagogue - East A Street

Built in 1912, by J. P Karn, it was the first synagogue in Frederick County. Though used for small fellowship get-togethers (Bar mitzvahs, Bat mitzvahs, weddings) the building could not be used for religious services because the Jewish congregation was not large enough due to a requirement of at least 15 men.

When the building was no longer used for religious purposes, it was transferred on May 12, 1959 from merchant and Jewish community leader Himan Wertz to Nat Winters and Irv Kolker, owners of Peoples Home and Auto. Money from the sale of the building was given to charity.

According to JoEllen Morseberger, after that, People’s rented the property. Dr. Charles Pruitt started his practice there as did Dr. Paul Shafer, a dentist. A Public Health Clinic was once located on the lower level. The Red Cross and Dr. C.T. Byron Kao also used the building at one time. From the mid-70s to early-90s the main floor was used as storage and the lower level was an apartment.

(Photo courtesy of David Tuwiner and Mary Jo Brown; information from “Brunswick: 100 Years of Memories”)