About Maine Jewish Museum
The Tree of Life Foundation was established to restore Etz Chaim Synagogue, a turn-of-the-century immigrant era house of worship, and transform it into the Maine Jewish Museum. The newly restored building stands as a testament to the Jewish families of Maine who, from humble beginnings, began life anew and made lasting contributions to their new community. The Maine Jewish Museum tells their stories.
The first floor gallery showcases rotating exhibits by contemporary Jewish artists from Maine.
From the second floor, visitors enter the main sanctuary and can gain an understanding of religious practices and beliefs through objects and architecture.
In the vestibule of our new elevator addition is the photo exhibit of holocaust survivors who settled in Maine by Jack Montgomery accompanied by excerpts of their oral testimonies. (This exhibit is made possible by the Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine.)
Historic exhibits on the third floor include storyboards highlighting the contributions and accomplishments of Maine’s original Jewish immigrants and their families. Linking past and present, these displays serve as learning tools for visitors and students. Our newest panels highlight the Jewish communities of Lewiston/Auburn and Bath.
