About The Museum
Historic Sons of Jacob Building
The Rhode Island Jewish Museum is located within a historic building, steps away from the state capital and nestled within Providence's Smith-Hill neighborhood. The building, home to Congregation Sons of Jacob, is on the register of National Historic Places and placed on the Providence Preservation Society, (PPS) 2016 Most Endangered Properties List. The congregation, an orthodox Jewish community, has been conducting worship in Providence since the late 1800s. While part of the mission of the RIJM is to preserve the Sons of Jacob building, all Museum areas, events, and gallery space are distinct from places of worship, and of course, all persons from all walks of life are always welcome.
Who Are We?
RHODE ISLAND JEWISH MUSEUM OFFICERS & EXECUTIVE BOARD
SHELLEY PARNESS, President
JAMES WATERS, Vice President
RUTH BREINDEL, Secretary
LARRY PARNESS, Treasurer
JOSHUA JASPER
JESSI JASPER
LARRY KATZ
HAROLD SILVERMAN
NIKKI PARNESS SNYDER
SENIOR STAFF
CLARY HEALY, Grants Coordinator
SAM TROILO, Strategic Support
Visit The Museum
Everyone is welcome to come and visit the Rhode Island Jewish Museum!
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The RIJM is open to the public for special events, by appointment only. Please contact rijewishmuseum@gmail.com for more information.
Listening To History
Want to learn more about the history of the Sons of Jacob Synagogue? Watch our video to hear stories and memories from community members.
"The coolest things about buildings is that they are a portal into history..."
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- Brent Runyon, Providence Preservation Society