Temple House of Israel is a Jewish congregation in Staunton, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1876 by Major Alexander Hart, it originally held services in members' homes, then moved to a building on Kalorama street in 1885, the year it joined the Union for Reform Judaism.In 1925 the congregation constructed its current building at 115 North Market street, a contributing property to the Gospel Hill historic district. The Moorish Revival structure was designed by Sam Collins of T.J. Collins and son, and includes Mercer tiles, and windows and a glass screen by Charles Connick of Boston.House of Israel's sister congregation is Beth El Congregation of Harrisonburg, Virginia., Joe Blair served as rabbi for both synagogues.Early historyTemple House of Israel was founded in 1876 in Staunton, Virginia, United States by Major Alexander Hart, who had fought for the Confederate States of America in the American Civil War. Hart served as the congregation's president and minister until at least 1893.
