Bonus: The Seat Numbers on the Pews

As a means to raise funds (and also prevent arguments between congregants), the Eldridge Street Synagogue sold the right to sit in numbered seats. The best seats in the house were up front, next to the ark facing the congregants. Prices ranged from a few dollars to several hundred, and a formal contract guided the exchange. You can see samples of the contracts on display in the Museum at Eldridge Street, which notes that Seat #1 was purchased in 1887 for $1,100 by Isidor Abraham, which would be about $24,100 in 2014 dollars!

Secrets of the Eldridge Street Synagogue After Hours Tour

Next, discover the Top 10 Secrets of Grand Central Terminal. Get in touch with the author @untappedmich.