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History Sacred Sites
We Keep Jewish History on the Lower East Side Alive!

Preserve and Educate

Explore New York's Jewish history, yesterday and today ... on the Lower East Side.

 
 

The Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy is a non-profit educational organization, created in 1998, with a mission to celebrate, preserve, and share the Jewish heritage of New York City's neighborhoods, starting with the iconic Lower East Side. The Conservancy's deeply knowledgeable guides will lead you on a fascinating exploration of The Lower East Side's Jewish sites. You can attend one of our public tours on a particular subject, or your group can sign up for a special private tour which we craft for your interests at no extra charge. All proceeds go to support the Conservancy's work preserving the neighborhood's exceptional patrimony.

 

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Memorial Plaque | Bialystoker Synagogue | LESJC

A Sacred Mission

The Conservancy’s primary goal is to preserve the synagogues and heritage of the Lower East Side, America’s most famous immigrant neighborhood, and present them to the public. Through our efforts, many have been designated as historic landmarks, and have been listed on New York State and National Registers. In 2000, the Conservancy assisted in designating a 32 – block area as a historic district. We accomplish our goal by designing touring programs, both private and public, which showcase the Lower East Side’s landmarks, history and people.

 
 
Stained Glass Window | Stanton Street Shul | LESJC

Preserving Our Legacy

The Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy is the only non-profit organization dedicated solely to the historic preservation of the Lower East Side’s sacred sites. The Conservancy has formed relationships with the leaders of all of these sacred sites. It is these professional relationships that open doors for our visitors. A portion of the proceeds of each tour is returned to the sacred sites visited on that tour, contributing to their restoration and conservation.

 

Featured Tour

 
 
Featured
Jewish Upper East Side Walking Tour
Nov 24
Jewish Upper East Side Walking Tour
Our guides were passionate, knowledgeable, informative, and entertaining... in short we had such a memorable day! We expect to come back for more!!!!! J.L.
The recent trip to the Lower East Side was wonderful. The docents provided by the Conservancy were well informed and most professional. R.G.
I and a group of friends had the Bialystoker walking tour with Jay Zion and I wanted to give him a big thank you. We had a really wonderful experience. We saw places that we never would have noticed or been allowed in to on our own. We'll probably be taking another tour in the future. M.P., Alexandria, VA
Your work is very important, highlighting our beginnings in the U.S. and some of the many trials and tribulations faced by our people. We must learn, remember and tell the stories for those generations after us. Your organization keeps those stories alive. We all thank you for our wonderful experience. L.L.