---

Survey of
Historic Sites and Buildings

	TOURO SYNAGOGUE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE Rhode Island	Tuoro Synagogue NHS
Location: 85 Touro Street, Newport. Touro Synagogue National Historic Site Touro Synagogue

Touro Synagogue symbolizes the spirit of religious freedom that arose during the colonial period and found its way into the principles upon which the political system of the new Nation was founded. The Code of Laws for Rhode Island in 1647 proclaimed religious freedom, and a Jewish sect that had been persecuted in Europe sought haven in this new colony founded by Roger Williams, himself a victim of religious persecution in Massachusetts. For nearly a century the Newport Jews prospered and made important contributions to Newport life before they were able to build a synagogue. In 1759, however, ground was broken, and the edifice that was dedicated 4 years later was a distinguished addition to Newport architecture as well as the highest achievement of Architect Peter Harrison. The Revolution sapped the vitality of Newport, and its Jewish community revived only partially after the war. By the end of the 18th century the doors of the synagogue had closed, but the building was preserved and maintained by descendants of the Reverend Isaac Touro, spiritual leader of the Newport Jews when it was opened, until services resumed in 1883. It still serves the purpose for which it was built.

Strikingly different from other colonial houses of worship in its appearance, Touro Synagogue, in Newport, R.I., represents an element of the colonial population whose important contributions are sometimes overlooked. (National Park Service)

An expert modification of Georgian architecture to accommodate the Sephardic Jewish ritual, Touro Synagogue exhibits a plain brick exterior and an ornate interior. Inside, 12 Ionic columns support a gallery, above which rise 12 Corinthian columns supporting a domed ceiling. Five massive brass candelabra hang from the ceiling. The Holy Ark at the east end contains sacred, hand-lettered Scrolls of the Law mounted on wooden rollers. In the center of the room is the Bimah, an elevated platform where the cantor intones the liturgy and reads the Torah. The profusion of holy objects gives to the synagogue a profoundly religious atmosphere.

Designated a National Historic Site in 1946, Touro Synagogue is administered under the terms of a cooperative agreement between the Secretary of the Interior, the Shearith Israel trustees of New York City, and the Congregation Jeshuat Israel of Newport. The Society of Friends of Touro Synagogue National Historic Shrine, Inc., aids in preservation and restoration work.