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✡ Jewish Travel Guide to Alabama

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✡ Jewish Travel Guide to Alabama


Alabama may not be the first place that comes to mind for Jewish heritage tourism, but this Deep South state has a rich, resilient Jewish history and warm Southern hospitality. From historic synagogues to Civil Rights landmarks, here’s what to explore:



🏙️ Major Cities & Jewish Communities



Birmingham


  • Temple Emanu-El (Reform): Founded in 1882, this synagogue has a beautiful sanctuary and active community.

  • Knesseth Israel Congregation (Modern Orthodox): Offers daily minyanim and a mikvah.

  • Civil Rights Sites: Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Kelly Ingram Park, and the 16th Street Baptist Church. Many Jewish leaders were involved in the Civil Rights Movement here.



Montgomery


  • Temple Beth Or: A Reform congregation dating back to the mid-1800s.

  • Rosa Parks Museum & Legacy Museum: Important landmarks for understanding Jewish allies’ involvement in the Civil Rights era.

  • Civil Rights Memorial by Maya Lin, commissioned by the Southern Poverty Law Center (founded by Jewish attorney Morris Dees).



Mobile


  • Springhill Avenue Temple (Reform): Established in 1841, this is one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the South.

  • Ahavas Chesed (Conservative): Active community with historical ties to Mobile’s Jewish merchants and seaport life.



Huntsville


  • Temple B’nai Sholom: A historic synagogue founded in 1876 with a small but active congregation.

  • Known for its aerospace and tech industries, Huntsville also attracts Jewish scientists and professionals.



🕍 Historic Synagogues & Sites


  • Temple B’nai Israel (Florence): Beautiful building in northwest Alabama.

  • Selma Jewish Cemetery: Remnants of a once-thriving Jewish community in Selma, which had deep involvement in commerce and Civil Rights.



🥯 Kosher Food & Shabbat


  • Kosher Options: Limited outside of Birmingham. In Birmingham, you’ll find:


    • Trader Joe’s & Whole Foods: Stock kosher items.

    • Jerusalem Grill (Birmingham): Mediterranean restaurant with some kosher-style options (not under certification).

    • Chabad of Alabama: Can help with kosher food, Shabbat meals, and hospitality. Contact them ahead of time.



✡ Jewish History in Alabama


  • Jewish immigrants arrived in the 1800s, often from Germany, and played key roles as merchants and civic leaders.

  • Jews in Alabama were active supporters of the Civil Rights Movement.

  • Alabama has historically supported a small but proud Jewish population with active congregations across denominations.



🧳 Tips for Jewish Travelers


  • Shabbat Hospitality: Contact local synagogues or Chabad centers in advance.

  • Security: Most synagogues have security policies in place—call ahead before visiting.

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and community events.



📍 Useful Contacts



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