Frierdiker Rebbe establishes Chabad presence in Riga

Following his departure from Russia in 5688, the Frierdiker Rebbe established a residence in Riga at Pulkveža Brieža Street 10. During his six-year stay, the city hosted a growing population of Chabad Hasidim and other refugees from Russia.

The Rosh Hashanah of 5689 marked the first celebration in the newly established Chassidische Chatzar in the heart of Riga’s affluent neighborhood. The event drew significant interest from the local Jewish community, which ranged from excitement to antagonism due to the cosmopolitan nature of the city.

Historical records indicate that the Rebbe's minyan during the Yamim Noraim was heavily attended by guests, including Hasidim traveling from Poland and Lithuania.