Northampton Synagogue
Orthodox / Ashkenazi
Overstone Road, Northampton NN1 3JW
Friday night services: every week @ 6.30pm
The Northampton Hebrew Congregation was formed in October 1888. In 1890 the congregation purchased the former Jerusalem Temple in Overstone Road. This corrugated iron building was used until 1964 when it was demolished and replaced in 1965 by the present synagogue which was built on the same site.
The Jewish population of Northampton was at its height during the second world war when several hundred were evacuated to Northampton from London. Most returned to London after the war.
Jews have lived in Northampton since Medieval times. The first record was in 1159. Records show that Jews in Northampton had to pay heavy taxes. The community expanded until all Jews were expelled from England in 1290.
Records show that there was a medieval synagogue and cemetery in Northampton. Remains of the synagogue have been discovered, this Chronicle and Echo article explains further.
Although Jews were permitted to return to England in 1656 it was not until the middle of the 19th Century that they came to Northampton.
SCHOOL VISITS:
If you wish to visit Northampton Synagogue, parties of up to 50 children can be offered a guided tour and a talk on "torah", "Judaism" or "the Jewish festivals".
An arranged visit must be pre-booked.
PLEASE VISIT THE SYNAGOGUE WEB SITE FOR CONTACT DETAILS
Hi, I think I have an ancestor Esther Halbrfson ( possibly misspelt) born in 1760 not sure where but she had a son Benjamin Morris 1781 in Irthlingborough. l wondered if you might know a correct spelling to help identify Esther. It seems you have a lot of these requests so I understand if it’s too much to ask but any ideas might be helpful. Many Thanks
My grandmother on my mother’s side here in England was Jewish her maiden name was stern I would like to trace her family tree back as I am so proud to have that Jewish connection she was so kind and caring I could not have asked for a better grandmother
Hi,
I’ve recently discovered I’m 25% Ashkenazi Jewish and was looking to research a little more into my family tree in this particular area. Do you keep records of all individuals that have attended the Synagogue (specifically during WWII)? If so is this something I would be allowed access to.
Thank you for your time.
Regards
Steve Betts
Hi.
I am researching my family history and I have family members/great grandfather and further back. They came from mile end/ Jewish area of 1800s London.
I live in Northampton and have a question if ok?
Do you hold records of all Jewish people who lived in Northampton as he did?
Also could you please tell me what this name translates to?
Many thanks I appreciate your time.
Simon Miller
I would like to arrange for a primary school visit to the synagogue please for 30, ten year old children and 3 adults. Is this possible?