Shadyside's Rodef Shalom synagogue considered for historic designation

The Rodef Shalom synagogue in Pittsburgh’s Shadyside neighborhood is being considered for historic designation.

“It’s just wonderful that our history is going to be recognized as part of Pittsburgh’s history,” said Matthew Falcone, president of the board of trustees at Rodef Shalom Congregation. “We’re very excited that our historical narrative gets to be part of Pittsburgh’s.”

Rodef Shalom would be the first Jewish temple to be put on the city’s register of historic places, Falcone said.

The Rodef Shalom congregation traces its roots to 1847, when 12 Jewish immigrants to Pittsburgh’s North Side joined together to establish a Jewish cemetery in Troy Hill, according to the historic designation nomination letter Falcon submitted. That group would later begin to meet for religious services as the Shaare Shamayim congregation.

Eventually, the Rodef Shalom congregation emerged when the Shaare Shamayim congregation splintered. A primarily German congregation, the Rodef Shalom — or Pursuer of Peace — congregation received its official charter in 1859.

Construction of the Rodef Shalom synagogue now in Shadyside was completed in 1907, with an associated religious school later constructed in 1937.

“We’re so tremendously proud of our history and the role our congregation has played here in Pittsburgh and throughout the country in shaping education and religion,” Falcone said.

He said the congregation played an important role in shaping the Reform Jewish movement.

In 1863, a majority of the congregation voted to realign the synagogue’s practices with Reform Judaism, meaning their services were shortened, women were allowed to sit with men in the temple, men weren’t required to wear skull caps or prayer shawls and an organ was introduced to accompany traditional songs.

A minority group who voted against embracing the Reform Jewish movement then broke off and formed the Orthodox Tree of Life Congregation.

Falcone said seeing Rodef Shalom potentially be formally recognized for its historical significance can shine light on the congregation’s “historic merit.” He also noted that the building’s distinct architecture ties into the city’s architectural history.

Pittsburgh’s Historic Review Commission previously recommended the site for historic designation. The Planning Commission followed suit Tuesday, with all members present voting in favor of the site’s historic designation.

The historic designation proposal will now be sent to City Council, who will have the final vote on the matter.