After a fact-filled talk by an enthusiastic docent who clearly loved and knew her subject, we took a self-guided tour through this still active temple. The woodwork, seating, arc and bimah were stately and well-preserved. In front is a simple but lovely garden blossoming with summer flowers. The bottom floor held work by artists with connections to Judaism and to Maine. If you find yourself walking by - as we did - it is worth a stop in to visit. There is no admission, although donations can be put discreetly into a box.
I visited a group that meets there and had the chance to view an exhibit of art inspired by Jewish spirituality. The building is beautiful, inside and out.
We stopped here following a local recommendation -- and were happy that we did. Portland is a great place anyway -- and the Jewish Museum fits right in. It's not big by any stretch but well worth the visit. We chatted amicably with the woman at the entrance who told us a lot about the building and the history of Jews in Maine -- really, this is how a museum ought to interact with its visitors. Thanks a lot!
The museum/synagogue is not very large so you can go through it quickly. There are very friendly and knowledgeable tour guides that are more than happy to show you around and answer your questions.
This was such an amazing museum as they had stories posted about Maine residents who were Holocaust survivors. Their stories were so fascinating and really put life in perspective. Plus we had a wonderful intern as our tour guide who clearly loved her religion as well as history! Thanks for such a great tour.
This small museum in a recently restored synagogue is a must see even if, like me, you're not Jewish. There are many art exhibits here over the course of the year to supplement the permanent exhibits. The synagogue in which the museum is located is Portland's oldest active synagogue.
If you are Jewish or interested in New England Jewry, you have to stop at this museum. The curator Nancy gave us our own little tour and they have rotating exhibits (the most recent (December) was about Jewish lawyers in Germany right before the Holocaust. The temple attached to the museum is interesting because it's unincorporated so they hold reformed, conservative AND orthodox services there. I was there with my husband and 2 kids (5&8). Really cool visit...thanks, Nancy!
The entrance to this museum is beautiful, flowers blooming, artwork on the lawn. Upon our arrival, we were greeted immediately by a woman offering information and insight. This museum is located in an old synagogue, with fascinating exhibits inside and wonderful artwork. Holocaust survivors, who were Maine residents, had their stories posted. Interesting and chilling at the same time. There was an entire exhibit about summer camps in Maine. The pictures showing the change over time were very revealing. Well worth the visit while in Portland...
We went here based on reviews from Trip Advisor and it did not disappoint. they have some wonderful exhibits. We went through on our own and then spoke with the administrator and she was full of stories and information about the history of Jews in Portland, it was fascinating. Well worth a visit! They are currently renovating and expanding the building.
We stopped by not knowing what to expect. We found a beautiful old synagogue, very friendly and welcoming staff, top-notch art exhibit, and good information about the history of Jewish life in Maine and Portland. Small but very enjoyable.