December, a month of holidays, includes Chanukah, the festival of lights. For Jews the world over, it marks the rededication of the ancient temple in Jerusalem after Judas Maccabee defeated Antiochus, the tyrannical Syrian king. During the eight days of Chanukah, eight candles — one each day — will be lit in the traditional menorah, a candleholder reserved exclusively for the annual celebration of freedom. 

This year the Danville Historical Society’s Walking Tout coincides with the first day of Chanukah, December 8th. Understandably, the Society is honored that the congregation of Temple Beth Sholom agreed to open their house of worship at this special season. Members of the congregation will be present to explain the rich symbolism of their temple, the menorah and other ceremonial objects — all reminders of the active history of the congregation. 

Standing like a red brick sentinel on Sutherlin Avenue, this austere but distinctive Romanesque structure was built in 1899-1900. It was constructed for the congregation by RB. Graham, an accomplished turn-of-the- century architect-builder. The verticality of the facade, which is accented by a conical-topped corner belfry, is balanced by belt courses that link with the various openings. The building adds a note of variety to a Street that otherwise consists of domestic architecture. 

Inside the structure, the Romanesque influence is enhanced by complex trusses with rounded arches and the original stained glass windows flanking the sanctuary. Over the altar is a large window depicting Moses holding the Law. Under the window the Hebrew scrolls of the Torah, the five books of Moses, are housed in the ark built in the shape of the Temple that stood in Jerusalem. In front of the ark is another early feature of the temple, the cast-iron eternal light, a reminder of the continuing presence of God.