Historic Touro Synagogue of Newport, Rhode Island, oldest surviving synagogue building in America and one of the finest remaining examples of colonial architecture, has been designated as a national historic site, Acting Secretary of the Interior Oscar L. Chapman announced today.
Jews from Spain, Portugal, Holland and the West Indies settled in Newport as early as 1658. Dedicated in 1763. The synagogue has served as a place of worship for the Jewish congregation of Newport for almost 200 years. Before they were able to build a temple the early settlers held religious services in their homes.
Ownership of the synagogue will remain unchanged, the Department announced, but the National Park Service will provide professional assistance in caring for the historic site and in interpreting it to the public.
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