Kettwig

Summary: We are unable to cite accurate Jewish population figures for Kettwig, as records group Jews from this town together with those from the city of Essen. In 1756, the family of David Levy in Kettwig was granted a letter of protection (renewed in 1774). At some point after 1776, local Jews began to conduct prayer services in a small building; purchased by the community in 1835, the synagogue building—it also housed a mikveh and a schoolroom—was enlarged to include a women’s gallery. An elementary school was opened there in 1871, but it was moved to the adjoining building in 1883, where it remained until 1914. The interior of the synagogue was plundered on Pogrom Night and partly destroyed during the following weeks. A commemorative plaque was later unveiled at the site. Those who wish to learn more about the community of the late 1930s are advised to consult records pertaining to Essen, into which Kettwig was incorporated.

Author / Sources: Harold Slutzkin
Source: SG-NRW, SIA