First Turner orchestra photograph, 1883

German-American musical societies in Indianapolis included instrumental as well as choral groups. This picture shows the Turner Orchestra in 1883. Its members are Oskar Sputh, John Ulrich, Rudolph Warmling (sitting, left to right), William Kuerst, Al Meredith, George Niebergall, Robert Ruth, Louis Ruth, and Ludwic Ruth (standing, left to right). The orchestra played for many Socialer Turnverein dances and other events.

Access Aids:

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