The Capital Jewish Museum explores the Jewish experience in the national capital region and inspires visitors to connect, reflect, and act—Connect personally and collectively, Reflect on the relevance of the past to today, and Act on behalf of their communities and values.
With its experimental spirit, the Museum connects the past to the present through thought-provoking exhibitions, dynamic programming, and creative public experiences.
Founded by volunteers in 1960, the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington was incorporated in 1965 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to interpreting Jewish history in the greater Washington area. In 1969, galvanized by the pending demolition of the historic 1876 Adas Israel synagogue, the oldest synagogue building in the nation's capital, Society members arranged for the historic building to be moved three city blocks to its present location (more photos of the move!). After extensive restoration, the synagogue was rededicated and opened to the public as the Lillian & Albert Small Jewish Museum in 1975.
Credit: Overview from museum website
Schedule of exhibitions, on now and upcoming