The Julius Freyhan Foundation is actively working to restore two buildings in the historic district of St. Francisville – Temple Sinai, originally constructed as a synagogue that served the sizeable Jewish population in St. Francisville and neighboring Bayou Sara during the late 19th and early 20th century and the Julius Freyhan High School building, which educated students in West Feliciana Parish until 1950. These two buildings will be the focus of a new cultural and conference center that promises to be a vibrant community partner.

St. Francisville is already a destination for regional, national and international visitors. Our center will join the roster of important institutions in this area that present history with hospitality and rural sensibility with an urban sophistication. We have linked with other neighboring organizations on this site, but to fully appreciate the area, we urge you to visit and see them for yourself. At present, the high school building is not open to the public, but we look forward to welcoming you to Temple Sinai which has re-opened following 7 months of renovation. Restoration efforts will then begin on the school and, during the process, we look forward to keeping you apprised of our progress and exceeding your expectations.

We have launched a challenging capital campaign to make our vision a reality. There is much work to do, but with your help, I know it will be a reflection of our community, our state, our history and heritage and will provide a needed outlet for cultural development and growth.

Warmest regards,
Betsy Levasseur, Director

Officers

Betsy Levasseur, President | Miles Higgins, Vice President | Helen K. Williams, Secretary | Robert V. Baker, Treasurer

Board Members