Kismet Temple

Introduction: Kismet Temple and Its Legacy

Located at 92 Herkimer Street in Brooklyn’s Bedford–Stuyvesant neighborhood, the Kismet Temple is an outstanding example of New York City’s architectural and cultural richness. Built between 1909 and 1910 for the Ancient Arabic Order of the Mystic Shrine (Shriners), this landmark is renowned for its Moorish Revival architecture—featuring a yellow brick façade, ornate glazed terra cotta detailing, and striking onion domes. Designed by R. Thomas Short, a Shriner and Brooklyn native, the temple embodies the organization’s fascination with Middle Eastern motifs and stands as a symbol of early 20th-century social ambition (Brownstoner; Friendship Baptist Church).

In 1966, the temple began a new chapter as the home of the Friendship Baptist Church, reflecting the evolving demographics and vibrancy of Bedford–Stuyvesant. While it no longer serves as a museum or standard tourist destination, visitors can still appreciate its grandeur by attending church services or participating in community events, providing a window into its enduring historical and cultural significance (Roadtrippers; The Clio).

This guide details essential information for prospective visitors—including hours, access, architectural highlights, and the temple’s ongoing community role—while offering insights into its historical journey and preservation. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or cultural explorer, Kismet Temple is a Brooklyn landmark that bridges heritage, artistry, and community vitality (Brooklyn Public Library; NYPL Digital Collections).

Community Role and Present-Day Use

Since becoming the home of the Friendship Baptist Church in 1966, Kismet Temple has remained a cornerstone of community life in Bedford–Stuyvesant. The building hosts regular worship services, social outreach, and cultural programming for the neighborhood’s predominantly African American population. Its continued use as a gathering place for both spiritual and civic activities highlights the adaptability and resilience of the structure (Wikipedia; The Clio).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Access

Visiting Hours:
Kismet Temple is not a conventional museum or tourist site. Public access is primarily during Friendship Baptist Church’s scheduled worship services and select community events. For the most accurate visiting hours, consult the Friendship Baptist Church official website or contact the church directly.

Tickets:
Admission is free; no tickets are required. Donations are appreciated to support ongoing preservation and community programs.

Guided Tours and Special Events:
While guided tours are not offered on a regular basis, Kismet Temple occasionally participates in local heritage walks and open house events—often announced through Brooklyn tourism channels and the church’s calendar (Brooklyn Public Library).

Moorish Revival Design

Kismet Temple stands as one of New York City’s most prominent examples of Moorish Revival architecture—a style popular among fraternal organizations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. R. Thomas Short, of the esteemed firm Harde & Short, designed the temple with a dramatic silhouette: two large onion domes with finials, a glowing yellow brick façade, and lavish terra cotta ornamentation featuring horseshoe arches and stylized Arabic motifs. The façade’s scimitar motif above the entrance unmistakably references the Shrine’s Middle Eastern-inspired identity (Brownstoner).

Interior Spaces

The building was originally conceived as a multi-purpose hub for the Shriners:

• Auditorium: Seating for roughly 2,300 people, underscoring the organization’s prominence (Brownstoner).
• Banquet Hall: Located below the auditorium, accommodating over 1,000 guests for dinners and community events.
• Ballroom and Meeting Rooms: The upper floors feature a ballroom and smaller meeting spaces, while auxiliary rooms and restrooms support diverse functions.

Adaptive Reuse

Following its time as a Shriners’ hall, the building served briefly as a movie theater before becoming the Friendship Baptist Church. Despite interior modifications, key architectural features—including the domes and terra cotta detailing—have been preserved.

Preservation and Landmark Status

• National Register of Historic Places: Kismet Temple was added to the National Register in 2013, affirming its architectural and cultural significance (Wikipedia; The Clio).
• State and Local Preservation: The New York State Historic Preservation Office oversees conservation in accordance with the State Historic Preservation Plan (2021–2025), emphasizing the protection of diverse cultural sites, including those central to African American heritage.

Visitor Tips and Accessibility

• Getting There: The temple is easily accessible via the A and C subway lines (Nostrand Avenue station) and several bus routes.
• Parking: Street parking is limited; public transportation is strongly recommended.
• Accessibility: The building features accessible entrances, but due to its historic nature, some areas may pose challenges. Visitors with specific needs should contact the church ahead of time.
• Photography: Exterior photography is welcomed. For interior photos, please respect church services and protocol.

Nearby Attractions

• Weeksville Heritage Center: Explore one of the oldest African American communities in the U.S.
• Brooklyn Museum: Renowned for its art collections and cultural exhibitions.
• Prospect Park: A vast green space ideal for walking and relaxation.
• Bedford–Stuyvesant Neighborhood: Known for its brownstone architecture, vibrant murals, and cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the current visiting hours?
A: Public access is primarily during scheduled church services and events. Check the Friendship Baptist Church website for updated hours.

Q: Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?
A: No. Admission is free; donations are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours are not regularly scheduled but may be available during special events or heritage walks.

Q: Is the temple wheelchair accessible?
A: Some accessible features are present, but visitors should inquire in advance for detailed accommodations.

Q: Can visitors attend church services?
A: Yes, the public is welcome to attend services at Friendship Baptist Church.