In September 2012, Beth Israel celebrated the publication and release of A Time to Remember, The First 150 Years, A History of Congregation Beth Israel in San Diego. The nearly 150-page book is a comprehensive historical account that celebrates the stories of multiple generations of San Diego Jews. For four years, many dedicated Beth Israel historians, volunteers and staff worked to chronicle the endeavors of the early visionaries and the many others along the journey who built a thriving Jewish community in San Diego. The creation of the book was a highlight of the 150th anniversary year. Books are available for purchase at the reception desk at Beth Israel. You may also read an/or download the book by chapter at the links below.
Chapter 1: Jews Settle in Frontier San Diego, 1850-1886
Chapter 2: Building an Active Jewish Community, 1886-1918
Chapter 3: Beth Israel in Boom and Depression, 1918-1941
Chapter 4: World War II and Postwar Growth, 1941-1976,
photographs of Senior Rabbis and Presidents
Chapter 5: New Leaders, New Challenges, 1976-1996
Chapter 6: From Hillcrest to a “New Jerusalem,” 1996-Present