Congregation Sons of Israel

Whether you are lighting a menorah or just curious about the past as I write this we are in the midst of Hanukkah in 2025. If you have seen one of the large menorahs in Downtown Sioux Falls you may already know this but I thought with it being the holidays it would be a great time to explore some of the Jewish history and how these early Jewish settlers contributed to the cultural tapestry of Sioux Falls, just another layer in our melting pot.  From 1880-1910 1.5 million Jews would immigrate to America from Eastern European countries of that we would get about a twelve hundred. In the 1880s Jews start flocking here specifically once we get the railroad because of business opportunities and most of these Russian jews and German jews would become merchants in the new city. 

Mt. Zion Cemetery was established in 1903. Orthodox and reformed groups were formed and Sons of Israel and Mt Zion would come together for the first synagogue in South Dakota in 1916. The merger didn't last and Sons of Israel also has a cemetery right next to Mt. Zion which is right next to Mount Pleasant Cemetery. If you are keeping track that is tic tac tow three cemeteries in a row. 

This historical marker is located at Van Epps Park in Downtown Sioux Falls. Mt Zion Temple is still in Sioux Falls with about 50 families while they have not had a full time rabbi since 1978 but they do have 4 torahs. The Jewish community, though modest in size, remains a vital part of the city's diverse heritage, and hosting events. Each Hanukkah, the lighting of the menorah serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, let it reminding us of the enduring spirit that these pioneers carried with them as they set out from their homelands to build a new home and new life for their families generations to come. 

Our Congregation Today — Mt. Zion Congregation

City of Hustle - Google Books

Congregation Sons of Israel Historical Marker