It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2023, for its distinctive Moorish architecture and for its role in the westward migration of Jews.

[3] German-Jewish settlers founded the congregation in 1883,[4] while the building was completed in 1889, designed by Isaac Rapp in the exotic Moorish Revival style.

[5] Architectural features of note include the onion dome at the top of its tower, a detail repeated in moulding at the roofline, and pointed-arch windows.

[8] Over a number of years, funds were raised through a non-for-profit organisation that enabled the synagogue to be preserved.

[10] On December 13, 2023, the United States Department of the Interior designated the temple a National Historic Landmark.