The Maine Jewish Museum tells the stories of people who built a culture and community. The museum is housed inside Etz Chaim Synagogue, one of the oldest European-style synagogues in Maine. Learn about local Jewish life and culture through the museum’s varied exhibits and events.
Find the museum in Portland’s historic Munjoy Hill neighborhood. At the turn of the century, a flood of Jewish families emigrated from Europe to the peninsula. The synagogue was built in 1922 to serve Maine’s blossoming Jewish population. The simple brick building features a sweeping domed ceiling and a large stained-glass window above the ark.
Explore the gallery located on the first floor. This large space showcases works by contemporary Jewish artists from the state. The pieces displayed rotate regularly and span a variety of styles.
From the second floor of the museum, enter the main sanctuary of Etz Chaim Synagogue. Admire the religious objects on display and learn more about the practices and beliefs of the Jewish faith.
In the vestibule next to the elevator is an exhibit dedicated to Holocaust survivors who settled in Maine. See their photos and read the accompanying texts to discover their stories.
On the third floor, walk through a storyboard that highlights the accomplishments of Maine’s early Jewish immigrant families and their descendents. The displays link past and present, sharing the stories of residents across the state. Learn about locals such as Hiram Abrams, who was a co-founder of Paramount Pictures Corporation, and Shirley Povich, a famous sports journalist.
Visit the Maine Jewish Museum throughout the year. It is closed on Saturdays. Although the museum and the Etz Chaim congregation are housed in the same building, they operate as separate organizations.
All are welcome to attend the weekly services at Etz Chaim, along with the congregation’s special events throughout the year.
