To accommodate tourists interested in experiencing the sacred sites and rich history of the Lower East Side, the Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy (LESJC) is continuing its program of tours initiated last year. Tours will begin on June 17 and continue through December 30, 2010. Each tour will be approximately 90 minutes.
Fees for the Insider Tours will be $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and students. Children under six are free. Reservations are not required. Tours take place rain or shine.
Two Insider Tours will be offered:
- The first, based on highlights of the LESJC's public tour "Crossing Delancey," will be available on Thursdays beginning at 1:45 p.m.
- The second tour based on highlights of the LESJC's public tour "Bialystoker the Beautiful" will be available on Sundays beginning at 11:45 a.m.
Tours will start at the Kling-Niman Visitor's Center of the Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy, 400 Grand Street (between Clinton and Suffolk Streets) across from Citibank.
The insider tour on Thursday will include highlights of "Crossing Delancey." Participants will see the stunning beauty of the Angel Orensanz Cultural Foundation's interior (formerly Congregation Anshei Chesed), the oldest surviving structure built as a synagogue in New York City. They will also visit the magnificently restored Congregation Chasam Sopher, the oldest continually operating synagogue in New York City. Participants will have the opportunity to browse Streit's Matzoh Factory Outlet, the only family-owned and operated matzoh company in the U.S., and snack on irresistible confections at Economy Candy. (Food costs not included).
The tour on Sunday will include highlights of "Bialystoker the Beautiful." Participants will view the exterior of Beth Hemedrash Hagadol, former home of the largest Russian-Jewish Orthodox congregation in the United States; and the Bialystoker Synagogue, the largest active Orthodox congregation on the Lower East Side today. The Bialystoker Synagogue features a richly painted ceiling with signs of the zodiac, and hand-painted murals on the walls. Participants will also learn about Shtiebl Row and visit Congregation Beth Hachasidim De Polen, an original 19th century shtiebl (a one room prayer or study hall). The tour will include a discussion of the Henry Street Settlement and Lower East Side mikvah.
*Venues may change.
Call (212) 374-4100 x 1 or 2 to register or for further information. E-mail info@nycjewishtours.org
For information/reservations, call: (212) 374-4100 x1 or 2. Email: laurietobiascohen@nycjewishtours.org
The Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, sharing and celebrating the Jewish heritage of the Lower East Side. Private customized tours available by appointment.
Visit www.nycjewishtours.org.
