Claim: Joseph Newark founded Congregation B'nai B'rith in Los Angeles, which is now known as the Wilshire Boulevard Temple, he is also known for officiating the first Jewish wedding in California.
Evidence: Joseph Newmark (1799–1881) was a Prussian-born immigrant to the United States who co-founded B'nai Jeshurun in New York City and Congregation B'nai B'rith, now known as the Wilshire Boulevard Temple, the oldest synagogue in Los Angeles. He is credited with having performed the first Jewish wedding in California, and officiated as rabbi for his daughters' weddings.