PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The German element was in large measure responsible for the introduction of [physical education into the public schools.] The Turners had instructed their youth in physical training through their regular program. The introduction of physical education in the Indianapolis school system came as a result of their efforts. Because there was still hostility among some of the religious groups against Sunday entertainments, the Turners presented a Turner exhibition on a weekday at Tomlinson Hall in 1880. The exhibition aroused public interest in physical training, and soon a definite plan was made for the introduction of exercise as a regular part of the school curriculum. . . . Miss Frances Mueller (later Mrs. Albert Metzger), one of the graduates of the [Normal College of the American Gymnastic Union], was chosen as the first supervisor of physical education in the Indianapolis Public Schools.