New York City’s magnificent Eldridge Street Synagogue was built in 1887 in response to the great wave of Jewish immigrants who fled persecution in eastern Europe. Finding their way to the Lower East Side, the new arrivals formed a vibrant Jewish community that flourished from the 1850s until the 1940s. Their synagogue served not only as a place of worship but also as a singularly important center in the development of American Judaism. A near ruin in the 1980s that was recently reopened after a massive twenty-year restoration, the Eldridge Street Synagogue has been named a National Historic Landmark. But as Bill Moyers tells us in his foreword, the synagogue is also “a landmark of the spirit, . . . the spirit of a new nation committed to the old idea of liberty.” Annie Polland uses elements of the building’s architecture—the façade, the benches, the grooves worn into the sanctuary floor—as points of departure to discuss themes, people, and trends at various moments in the synagogue’s history, particularly during its heyday from 1887 until the 1930s. Exploring the synagogue’s rich archives, the author shines new light on the religious life of immigrant Jews, introduces various rabbis, cantors and congregants, and analyzes the significance of this special building in the context of the larger American-Jewish experience. For more information, go to: www.EldridgeStreet.org

Planning your trip to New England? Look no further. Whether you want to explore the rugged natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, follow the fascinating Freedom Trail through Boston, or indulge in fresh lobster from the coast of Cape Cod, your DK Eyewitness travel guide makes sure you experience all New England has to offer. This spectacular region beckons with every season. In spring and summer, pretty postcard villages entice hardcore hikers with the promise of a cold beer. In fall, blazing foliage unfolds from north to south. And with some of the best skiing and snowsports areas in the whole of the US, winter won't disappoint. Our regularly updated guide brings New England to life, transporting you there like no other travel guide does with expert-led insights and advice, detailed breakdowns of all the must-see sights, photographs on practically every page, and our trademark illustrations. You'll discover: - our pick of New England's must-sees, top experiences, and hidden gems - the best spots to eat, drink, shop, and stay - more than 400 photographs and illustrations - detailed maps, walks, and drives, which make navigating the country easy - easy-to-follow itineraries - more than 12 detailed maps - expert advice: get ready, get around, and stay safe - color-coded chapters to every part of New England, from Massachusetts to Maine, Rhode Island to New Hampshire Have less time or on a city break? Try our DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Boston or our pocket-friendly Top 10 New England.