Ligonier in Noble County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Ahavath Sholom
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 3, 2014
1. Ahavath Sholom Marker
(Side One)
German Jews immigrated to the U.S. in greater numbers starting in the 1850s. In the 1860s, Ligonier's Jewish residents formed the congregation Ahavath Sholom (Hebrew for "peace loving") and circa 1867, built a small synagogue nearby. The congregation formed close relationships with local churches. The Jewish community prospered, providing civic and business leaders.
(Side Two)
In 1889, the congregation dedicated a new synagogue here. Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise, founder of American Reform Judaism, spoke on religious tolerance at the dedication; the celebration included people from other cities and states. Jewish population peaked around 1900, later declining as younger residents moved to larger cities for educational and economic opportunities.
Erected 2014 by Indiana Historical Bureau, Ligonier Historical Society, Ligonier Public Library, and Indiana Jewish Federation Friends of Ahavath Sholom. (Marker Number 57.2014.1.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Churches & Religion • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Indiana Historical Bureau Markers series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1867.
Location. 41° 27.7′ N, 85°
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 7 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Ahavath Scholom Temple (here, next to this marker); Ben Glaser (approx. 0.2 miles away); Solomon Mier (approx. 0.2 miles away); Frederick W. Straus (approx. 0.2 miles away); Isaac Cavin (approx. 0.2 miles away); The Ligonier Train Depot (approx. 0.2 miles away); Chief Papakeecha’s House (approx. 6.3 miles away); Papakeechie's Reserve (approx. 6.8 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ligonier.
Also see . . .
1. Sholom, Ligonier!. From the Indiana Historical Bureau blog "Researching, remembering, and marking Hoosier history with the Indiana Historical Bureau". (Submitted on September 3, 2014.)
2. Sholom, Ligonier! Part Two. From the Indiana Historical Bureau blog "Researching, remembering, and marking Hoosier history with the Indiana Historical Bureau". (Submitted on September 3, 2014.)
3. Noble County Jewish History. An article from the Indiana Historical Bureau. (Submitted on September 3, 2014.)
4. History and Architecture of Ahavath Sholom. From a blog on the Ligonier temple. (Submitted on September 3, 2014.)
Additional commentary.
1. Dedication
The marker was dedicated with an open house and celebration on August 31, 2014.
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 3, 2014
2. Ahavath Sholom Marker
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 3, 2014
3. Ahavath Sholom Marker
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 3, 2014
4. View to north along S. Main Street
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 3, 2014
5. View to south along S. Main Street
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 3, 2014
6. Ahavath Sholom Temple
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 3, 2014
7. Ahavath Sholom Temple
Credits. This page was last revised on October 25, 2021. It was originally submitted on September 3, 2014, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. This page has been viewed 421 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. submitted on September 3, 2014, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas.
