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September 5, 2008
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1. Rabbi's Message
2. History of the Congregation
3. About Malden

A History of the Congregation Beth Israel, Malden

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Beth Israel West

In the early 1960s, the congregation sought to capitalize on Jewish migratory patterns within Malden and rented a house on Maple Street in the fashionable West End of town. Initially, Shabbat services were conducted for congregants living in that neighborhood.

Later, when property became available through auction around the corner on Dexter Street, the congregation purchased a house to use as a shul, and later, the neighboring house, which was demolished to make way for a parking lot.

Plans were soon developed to build a brand new, completely modern facility on the Dexter Street site, and in 1966, the doors of the new Beth Israel were opened. The world-famous Torah scholar and dean of Yeshiva University, Rabbi Joseph Dov Ber Soloveitchik zt"l spoke at the dedication ceremony.


Beth Israel West Architectural Sketch

The building was a marvel of architectural design. Built to resemble the mishkan -- the Tabernacle used by the Israelites in the desert, the new building housed not only a sanctuary, social hall, library and modern offices, but a health club complete with swimming pool, sauna and exercise room. The old synagogue building on Faulkner Street became known as Beth Israel East, while the new building was dubbed Beth Israel West.