 In 1889 , the congregation again renovated the synagogue building , repairing it and replacing the roof , increasing the seating capacity , adding a new vestibule and double entrance way , and redecorating the interior . At that time over half of the congregants still spoke German as their native language . The congregation had 50 members — defined as " heads of families who own seats " — by 1891 , and 300 congregants in total . By 1900 , the congregation had 160 members , and the congregational school , which held classes for two hours once a week , had ten teachers and 150 students . 
