History

Mount Freedom Jewish Center, originally named the Hebrew Congregation of Mt. Freedom, was the first synagogue established in Randolph Township, New Jersey. 

The shul was founded by 13 Jewish families and has been serving the community continuously for over a century.  Founded in 1923, Mount Freedom Jewish Center served the religious and social needs of the local Jewish families, many of whom established local businesses and the storied summer hotels and bungalow communities of Morris County.  Mount Freedom was a respite from the hectic life of the city-based Jewish community in need of open space and cool, clean mountain air in a haimish environment.  As the population in Morris County grew, the shul has undergone several renovations to meet the needs of its Congregants. However, if you peer behind the lovely stained glass windows in the sanctuary and lobby, you will see the walls of the original simple wood building behind them.

Now as always, please consider Mount Freedom Jewish Center as your home shul.

Historic references to the bungalow and hotel era may be found here.  

The Randolph Historical Society provides references to this foundational era.

Jews of Morris County, Arcadia Publishing by Linda Forgosh

News Story About Mount Freedom Jewish Center Centennial (NJ Jewish News - 29 March 2024)

MTFJC Centennial Testimonials (Video)

Jewish Federation of Metrowest Centennial (2024)

Historical Timeline - Jewish Federation of Metrowest NJ

75 Year Anniversary Pamphlet

This historical narrative and testimonal was prepared by Jamie Ramsfelder, Sharon Nessel and team for our MTFJC Centennial Event on 10 April 2024.

The following humorous  stories were captured as part of our MTFJC Centennial events, April 2024.  These narratives were produced and facilitated by MTFJC leader and active member, Jamie Ramsfelder.