http://www.isjl.org/history/archive/la/lafayette.htm has Jewish community history and photos. Lafayette is the birthplace of designer Henri Bendel. [January 2009]
1919 Jewish population was 63 according to Alan Hirschfeld's submission from "Directory of Jewish Local Organizations in the United States" pp. 330-583 in American Jewish Year Book 5680 (September 25, 1919 to Sept. 12, 1920); Volume 21, edited by Harry Schneiderman for the American Jewish Committee
Crowley and Rayne worshipped here when their temple closed.
Reform Rodeph Shalom and Reform Temple Yeshurun merged in 1992.
Menachim Aveilim Cemetery: Lee & College Aves. "In 1869, former Louisiana Governor Alexander Mouton gave the Jews of Lafayette a tract of land for a cemetery that was informally called “Hebrew Rest.” In April 1890, the cemetery, now formally named “Menachim Aveilim” (“Comforting the Mourning), was chartered. A meeting to organize a graveyard society was held in Falk’s Opera House. In attendance were Benjamin Falk, Solomon Wise, Joseph Wise, a Polish storeowner, Gustave Godchaux, a French-born lumber dealer, Jacob Isaacs, a German merchant, Joseph Plonsky, a Prussian-born dry goods merchant, G. Schumuler, J. Bendel, and Abraham Haas. The founding members envisioned the cemetery as a final resting place for the Jews of Lafayette and its surrounding environs. In their own words, the importance of a Jewish cemetery “has been a characteristic which has distinguished him [the Jew] in all ages and under all conditions.” Their dream was soon realized. Still today, oak trees provide shade for the beautiful and well-kept cemetery, which houses the souls of Lafayette’s departed." http://www.isjl.org/history/archive/la/lafayette.htm [January 2009]
Rodeph Shalom Cemetery: Source: Eric J. Brock, Historic Preservation & Planning Consulting, P.O. Box 5877 Shreveport, LA 71135-5877 (318) 797-6765, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.