Germantown Jewish Centre in Northwest Philadelphia is a significant cultural resource that has been entered into the National Register of Historic Places, writes April Frantz for Pennsylvania Heritage. 

The venue has been a staple in West Mount Airy for over 70 years. 

During the 1930s, more than 500 Jewish families were living throughout the region, primarily in the Germantown, Mount Airy and Chestnut Hill neighborhoods. 

In 1936, groups of families who had been worshipping together for some time came together to organize monthly meetings and later evolved into a formal synagogue. 

When it became time to build a dedicated facility, the goal was to go beyond being just a religious institution. 

The structure was designed by architect, Harry Sternfeld, and sculptor, Donald De Lue, who previously worked together on the exterior sculptures of the United States Court House and Post Office Building in Philadelphia. 

The unique design soon became an early regional model for the suburban-style synagogues that became popular in and around Philadelphia. 

Germantown Jewish Centre has served its name well, as a center and focal point for the Jewish community. It has doubled as a venue to both practice and learn about the Jewish faith.

Learn more about the structure and other listings in the National Register of Historic Places in Pennsylvania Heritage.

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Germantown Jewish Centre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.