The congregation was organized in 1883 by newer Russian Jewish immigrants who did not want to affiliate with the already established Orthodox Sons of Jacob synagogue generally known as a “Polish” congregation. Naming their new congregation the Sons of Zion, its members initially met in a tent set up on a vacant lot (location unknown). Auxiliary groups were quickly formed including the Daughters of Zion, Hachnosas Orchim (“welcoming guests”), a Young Men’s Aid Society, and a Ladies Aid Society. Herman Kovarsky was engaged as a rabbi. In 1902 a new synagogue was dedicated at 150 State Street on Saint Paul’s West Side River Flats.