HISTORY | A LIGHT IN THE PRAIRIE

A Light in the Prairie: Temple
Emanu-El of Dallas, 1872-1997

By Gerry Cristol

Members of Temple Emanu-El, the first Jewish congregation in Dallas, have played an historic role in the growth and development of Dallas. Arguably, Temple Emanu-El, formed in 1875, owes its ascendancy to the auspicious designation of Dallas as a railroad crossroads. Jews, like other enterprising newcomers, were drawn to the railroad boom town and became part of the westward sweep of trade and emigration to Dallas. These early settlers participated in every aspect of civic growth and responsibility, manning the fire department and serving as city aldermen.

While retaining the basic principles of their ancestral faith, Temple Emanu-El’s Reform Jews adapted their religious practices to conform to the secular demands of life in America. With confidence in the city’s promise of progress, congregants actively promoted Dallas’ business, civic and cultural development. Generations of temple families contributed to the advancement and enrichment of both the temple and the city.

Gerry Cristol has set this absorbing story against the history of both Dallas and American Judaism. Temple Emanu-El’s story affirms a unique but nonetheless eloquent tribute to the American experience, and in A Light in the Prairie social history becomes fascinating reading.

A Light in the Prairie can be purchased at Sisterhood's Judaic Treasures gift shop or it can be ordered through your neighborhood bookstore. It is also available in the Weisberg Library, and it can be ordered online at www.amazon.com.