Congregation Beth Israel has two cemeteries:
Our historic West Dallas Cemetery, at 1207 West Dallas, one block east of I-45 downtown, was the first Jewish burial ground in Texas. It was established in 1844, ten years before Beth Israel officially organized. These beautiful early Texas headstones reveal a Who’s Who List of influential early Houstonians. Lying in its midst in the shadow of downtown is a major architectural feature, an imposing and unique 1935 Art Deco Mausoleum designed by well-known Houston architect Joseph Finger. Finger, who was also a Beth Israel member, designed Houston’s City Hall and many other major Houston landmarks in the first half of the Twentieth Century. He is interred in the mausoleum he designed and many of his descendants remain Beth Israel members today.
Congregation Beth Israel Memorial Gardens, our newest cemetery, is located at 1111 Antoine, one block north of I-10. This 2.5 acre site is adjacent to the Woodlawn Cemetery and was established in the late 1960’s. A major renovation and redesign was undertaken and completed in 1997. An award-winning design, our cemetery features an arbor walk, mausolea, fountains, a meditative courtyard and landscaping that provides shade and cool respite even in the midst of Houston’s often oppressive heat. The Herman & Elaine Proler Family Chapel is cooled by natural breezes and can accommodate up to 300 people in its soothing and inspired space. The unique water feature surrounding the chapel dispels the noises of city congestion, providing respite while reinforcing the awareness of nature and its seasons.
Designed by Daniel Solomon, of Solomon E.T.C. architectural firm, in collaboration with Gary Strang, Beth Israel’s Cemetery has been the recipient of the AIA Religious Art & Architecture National Design Award, an AIA California Design Award, and a Houston Press Best of Houston Award for Best New Building. Memorial Gardens Cemetery Hours are daily 8-5.
Other information may be obtained by clicking one of these links: