About Tiferet Israel

Serving Dallas Since 1890

Tiferet Israel was organized in 1888 by a group of neighbors living in the area of Caroline Street, Cedar Springs, and Alamo Street on the south side of Dallas. There were approximately 50 families in the neighborhood.

tiferet-dallas-kosher-chili-cook-off-2

Services were held in the home of Jake Donosky. The following eleven men were the founders of Tiferet Israel:

  • Joe Ablon
  • Frank Byers
  • W. Dombrowsky
  • Isaac I. Donosky
  • Jake Donosky
  • A. J. Herman
  • I.M. Lynn
  • Ruben Robinson
  • A. Rubenstein
  • M.B. Tobolowsky
  • Sam Tobolowsky

Tiferet was chartered in March of 1890. For the first three years, the services were held in the home of Jake Donosky on Caroline Street. Frank Byers led the services. In 1893, property was purchased on Highland Street (Akard Street). The existing structure was used for services until 1902. It was razed, and a new synagogue was built and used until 1937.

In 1939, Max Katz donated land at Grand Ave. and Edgewood St. A modern synagogue was built there; and it is still standing.

By the 1950’s, the Jewish community was moving north, and in 1956, Tiferet Israel moved to its present location. The first phase of the building included the Taubman Chapel, an office, classrooms and a small kitchen.

In 1961 ground was broken to build the Main Sanctuary, Katz Social Hall, two complete kitchens and the only Mikvah in Dallas. Over the years, the existing building has had additions and renovations to meet the demands of a thriving congregation.

Tiferet Israel is known internationally for its Kosher Chili Cook–Off, but its roots are with eleven men committed to enriching the lives of the Jews in their community…that tradition continues today.