Neukirchen

Summary: Neukirchen Jews initially worshipped in a private residence, but in February 1832, with the permission of the local authorities, the community managed to purchase a twostory house and convert it into a synagogue. The building also accommodated a mikveh, a schoolroom, and living accommodation for teachers, the most prominent of whom was Benedikt Hause, who served the congregation for 33 years and also functioned as chazzan and shochet. Local Jews were engaged mostly in trade—at first in cattle and horses, later in general merchandise. Several young Jewish men died fighting for Germany in World War I, and records also tell us that Neukirchen Jews were active in their town’s communal and charitable endeavors. The anti-Jewish boycott of 1933 was the signal for Jewish residents to leave town: some managed to emigrate, and others sought anonymity in larger towns (they were, of course, later caught). The synagogue building had been sold before Pogrom Night, but the mob nevertheless wrecked its interior and burned the remaining contents, including Torah scrolls, in the marketplace. Used as a shelter for French POWs during the war, the building was later converted into residential apartments. A memorial stone has been affixed to the former synagogue building. At City Hall, visitors will find a book of remembrance.

Author / Sources: Harold Slutzkin
Sources: AJ, DJGH