A rare surviving example of Eastern European Jewish Orthodoxy still stands in Portsmouth, Virginia.  It has been abandoned since 1985, but with roots deep in tradition Chevra T’helim, meaning Family of Psalms, is soon to be renewed.  The Friends of Chevra T’helim are a  501(c)3 organization dedicated to restoring the Synagogue. 

Our vision is a center for Jewish cultural studies and a place where visitors from around the world can celebrate and learn about Jewish history, faith, culture, and the impact the members of this synagogue had on the City of Portsmouth.

Phase 1

Through many generous donations, the building has been stabilized.  The roof has been replaced and the floors re-supported.  The interior and exterior are being restored as faithfully as possible, with only minor alterations as required by code to provide necessities such as restrooms and accessibility.

Phase I restoration will:

• Restore the central Bimah and the Ark
• Restore the pews
• Restore the interior architecture including wood paneling, flooring, pressed metal ceiling and the balcony
• Restore windows, doors, and portico
• Upgrade and install electrical & mechanical systems

Phase 2 (estimate:  $900,00)

For Chevra T’helim to become a center for Jewish history, education, and cultural events while preserving the integrity of the synagogue, an addition is envisioned to provide necessary space and accommodations.  The addition will be to the north of the Synagogue.  It will replace the temporary ramp and provide a new public entrance where visitors will experience an exhibit space displaying artifacts that convey the unique history of the Hampton Roads Jewish Community.

Phase 2 addition will include:

• A lobby for visitor reception and orientation
• A permanent exhibit gallery
• Restrooms and an elevator
• Full access to the balcony
• An office, volunteer workroom and docent work space
• Restoration of the synagogue’s entrance vestibule to its original configuration

Phase 3 (estimate:  $600,000)

Expanding the addition will complete the Friends of Chevra T’helim’s vision to restore the synagogue as a historic place and create a vibrant center for Jewish cultural studies.  It will be a place where visitors from around the world, can celebrate Jewish culture and teach thousands about Jewish history, faith, and traditions.

Phase 3 expansion will include:

• A changing exhibit space
• Archives for historical records and artifacts
• Research facilities
• Additional office space.

Once realized, Chevra T’helim will be a destination for visitors
from near and far.

Return to the Chevra T'helim home page

Friends of Chevra T'helim •  PO Box 7962 •  Portsmouth, VA 23707