Chatham Memorial Synagogue

Chatham Memorial Synagogue is a historic synagogue in Kent, England, standing on the boundary between Chatham and Rochester on Rochester High Street. The 19th-century building is one of the most interesting pieces of Jewish heritage in south-east England and is listed at the high Grade II* level.

Why is it called a "memorial" synagogue?

The name is personal. The present building was funded by Simon Magnus, a silversmith and pawnbroker, as a memorial to his son, Captain Lazarus Simon Magnus, who died in 1865. The foundation stone was laid in 1868, and Chief Rabbi Nathan Adler consecrated the building in 1870. The architect was Hyman Henry Collins.

What does the building look like?

Heritage descriptions point to a Byzantine-style exterior and a baroque interior. Inside, the Minton tile flooring, original wooden pews and stained glass by Smith and Miers have survived. Together they appeal to anyone interested in sacred architecture and Victorian craftsmanship.

The synagogue was renovated and reconsecrated in 1923. In the late 1960s a social and youth centre was added, so the site served the community beyond worship alone.

The burial ground behind the synagogue

Behind the building lies a Jewish cemetery dating from the early 1780s at the latest. Heritage records describe it as the only Jewish burial ground in Britain attached to a synagogue in the manner of a churchyard. The cemetery has its own listing at Grade II.

Community background

The Jewish community around Chatham is very old. Sources speak of a community nearly three hundred years old, and one mentions a possible, uncorroborated reference to Jewish families in the area around 1180. The synagogue is therefore also a witness to a long Jewish presence in Kent.

What to know before visiting

• The synagogue is an active place of worship for its congregation, so check in advance whether visits are possible, for example through the community or heritage open-day organisers.
• The street frontage is worth a look on its own; if you can go inside, look for the stained glass, pews and tiled floor.
• The building sits on the boundary of two towns, so a visit combines easily with exploring Rochester and Chatham.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Chatham Memorial Synagogue? In Kent, England, on the boundary of Chatham and Rochester, on Rochester High Street.

When was it built? The foundation stone was laid in 1868 and the building was consecrated in 1870.

Who designed and funded it? Hyman Henry Collins was the architect, and Simon Magnus funded it in memory of his son.

Is it a listed building? Yes, the synagogue is Grade II* listed and the burial ground behind it is Grade II.

What makes it special? The pairing of a Byzantine-style exterior with a baroque interior, plus a cemetery attached to the synagogue that is recorded as the only one of its kind in Britain.

In short

Chatham Memorial Synagogue is a place where a founder's personal story meets the heritage of a centuries-old community. For visitors to Kent it is a rewarding stop for architecture, history and remembrance.