MOUNTAINDALE - Hebrew Congregation of Mountaindale was awarded a $10,000 Sacred Sites Grant from the New York Landmarks Conservancy to help fund roof replacement. In the first half of the 20th century, Mountaindale was a popular Catskills vacation railroad destination, with nearby resorts and bungalow colonies.

The synagogue, of wood frame construction with stucco cladding, was constructed circa 1915-1917, and a one-story, front vestibule addition was added in 1930. Original marbleizing finishes at the sanctuary interior, in a rich variety of colors and styles, were restored in the 1970's. The synagogue includes a one-story mikveh, or ritual bath, next door to the east, also stucco-clad, dating from 1940. Although the builder of the synagogue is unknown, the interior marbleizing and painting were done by local residents, and the mikveh was constructed by a group of congregation members. This Orthodox synagogue is the oldest seasonally operating congregation in the Catskills region.

The New York Landmarks Conservancy has led the effort to preserve and protect New York City's architectural legacy for more than 45 years. Since its founding, the Conservancy has loaned and granted more than $52 million, which has leveraged more than $1 billion in 1,550 restoration projects throughout New York, revitalizing communities, providing economic stimulus and supporting local jobs. The Conservancy has also offered countless hours of pro bono technical advice to building owners, both nonprofit organizations and individuals.

The Conservancy's work has saved more than a thousand buildings across the City and State, protecting New York's distinctive architectural heritage for residents and visitors alike today, and for future generations. For more information, please visit www.nylandmarks.org.