Ellen Levitt launches "Former Synagogues of the United States"

Schedule

Wed May 20 2026 at 06:30 pm to 08:00 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

Lofty Pigeon Books, Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, USA | Brooklyn, NY

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"It’s an invitation to look around and notice what surrounds us." —Daniel Soyer
About this Event

Join us for the launch of Ellen Levitt's Former Synagogues of the United States, a thoughtful, multifaceted book on the hidden history of synagogues and Jewish organizational buildings throughout New York, Chicago, Detroit, and other American cities.

Ellen will read from the book, followed by a conversation, Q&A, reception, and book signing.

Can't make it to the event? Preorder at the link above to receive a signed copy for store pickup or shipping. Indicate any personalization requests in the "Instructions and comments" field during checkout.


About the book

Throughout the United States there are buildings that had been home to Jewish houses of worship, schools, and other institutions. What has happened to these buildings? What can we learn from their history? Former Synagogues of the United States tells their stories, and explains how and why they have changed over time. This book explores Jewish history, American religious studies, architecture and decorative arts, genealogy, and other related topics to tell a vivid saga.

Praise for Former Synagogues of the United States

"In Former Synagogues of the United States, Ellen Levitt uncovers the ‘hidden history’ of America’s Jewish built environment. It’s an invitation to look around and notice what surrounds us." —Daniel Soyer, Professor of History, Fordham University


About the author

Ms. Levitt is a veteran teacher, as well as a writer, photographer and licensed tour guide. Her previous books include The Lost Synagogues of Brooklyn (2009); The Lost Synagogues of the Bronx and Queens (2011); The Lost Synagogues of Manhattan (2013); and Walking Manhattan (2015). Her essays have been included in seven anthologies on various topics. Her articles and reviews have been published in various in-print and online publications and websites. She lectures for the United Federation of Teachers Retirees. She is a graduate of Edward R. Murrow High School in Brooklyn, Barnard College (BA), and Brooklyn College-CUNY (MA).

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Where is it happening?

Lofty Pigeon Books, Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, USA, United States

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

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