Minutes Book of the B'nai Israel Congregation, Keokuk, Iowa, 1885-1906

Handwritten minutes book of the B'nai Israel Congregation, Keokuk, Iowa, covering the period 1885-1906. The 206-page ledger includes a 1902 copy of the 1855 deed for the congregation's cemetery on the last page (#384). This book represents the earliest surviving communal records of the Keokuk Jewish community. The book also contains approximately 25 additional documents, including letters related to congregation affairs and bill heads. Keokuk, Iowa, had one of the largest Jewish communities in the Midwest during the 1880s. B'nai Israel Congregation was the first permanent Jewish house of worship in Iowa, founded in 1855, with a permanent synagogue built at 8th and Blondeau streets in 1877.

Associated People/Businesses

  • Klein, Louis W.
  • B'nai Israel Synagogue
  • Weil, J. B.
  • Marks, I. H.
  • Burton, C. C.
  • Charity Lodge No.6
  • Stern, M.
  • NUMEROUS NAMES 1885-1906

Geography

Subjects

Physical Location

Arc.MS.56, Box A, Folder 2