A former synagogue on Water Street South will likely be spared the wrecking ball now that the City of Cambridge has signalled its intention designate the turreted building a heritage property.
The city's heritage advisory committee will meet this week to consider a recommendation that council initiate a notice of intention to designate the structure under the Ontario Heritage Act.
The property satisfies four of nine criteria under the act, including its unique representation of an early 20th century style of architecture.
Staff write that the large, traditional brick building features an asymmetrical design, steeply pitched roof, and modest decorative elements.
"One of its defining architectural features is a circular oriole window at the corner, capped with a bell-shaped roof that adds a unique focal point to the structure."
Built in the "Queen Anne" architectural style prior to 1911 to serve as a home for managers from the Bank of Commerce, the building later became a synagogue to serve the city's small Jewish community around 1950.
Between 1950 and 1983, the property served as the home of the Jewish congregation B’nai Israel.
"This change in use reflects the property’s evolving role within the community and its significance as a centre of Jewish worship and communal life for over three decades," reads a report from senior heritage planning staff.
"Prominent figures during this period included Rabbi Philip Rosendszweig, who led the congregation from 1953 to 1978. Under his leadership, the synagogue flourished as a hub for Jewish education and communal support."
Prior to the sale of the property, a large metallic seven-branched menorah had been affixed to the stucco wall, underscoring the building’s cultural significance.
"The building stands as a testament to the significant contributions of Jewish residents to the city’s cultural heritage," staff write.
The building had been on a list of properties the region wanted to acquire as a potential terminus for Stage 2 of the LRT but those plans have shifted to the Ainslie Street bus terminal.
