Das Deutsche Haus photograph, pre-1918

The Socialer Turnverein decided in 1891 to construct a new building to house its social, educational, and athletic gatherings. The structure, called Das Deutsche Haus, was designed by the architectural firm of Vonnegut & Bohn and was completed by June of 1898. At the time, it was one of the largest social club houses in America and included a gymnasium, an auditorium, a restaurant, bar, and "Biergarten," and club rooms. Other organizations that used the building included the German-English School Society, the Socialer Turnverein Women's Club, and the Turner Building and Savings Association. The building (renamed "The Athenaeum" during World War I) is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Access Aids:

Athenaeum Turners Records, Ruth Lilly Special Collections and Archives, University Library, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis.