Implementation of New Interpretive Program Elements at the National Historic Landmark Eldridge Street Synagogue

FAIN: BR-50029-07

Eldridge Street Project, Inc./Museum at Eldridge Street (New York, NY 10002)
Annie Polland (Project Director: January 2007 to January 2009)

Implementation of new interpretive exhibits, publications, and tours examining the architectural, religious, and cultural history of a historic synagogue and community in New York's Lower East Side.

The Eldridge Street Project ("ESP")requests funds to complete the overall revisioning of the Eldridge Street Synagogue, a National Historic Landmark on New York?s Lower East Side. A multi-million-dollar restoration of this historic site nears completion in late 2007, permitting greater numbers to visit, expanded access to building areas, and enhanced opportunities to inform and inspire. NEH funds are specifically requested to introduce new interpretative elements that will enrich the experience of visitors, readers of ESP publications and users of the organization?s website: (1) interpretive text and visual displays throughout the building, (2) audio interpretation, (3) a semi-permanent exhibit on the synagogue restoration and preservation process, (4) the development of three walking tours, and (5) publication of a series of scholarly essays in monograph form to accompany the building?s reopening.