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Turnverein is the name given to the clubs in Germany and the United States that followed the ideals of Friedrich Ludwig Jahn. The members of these clubs, commonly known as Turners, were interested not only in physical education but also in liberal political and social issues. Over the years, a number of Turnvereins were founded in Indianapolis, including the Socialer Turnverein, the Southside Turnverein, and the Independent Turnverein. The most active of these, the Socialer Turnverein, was responsible for bringing the National Turnfest to Indianapolis in 1905. This national event featured parades and athletic competitions, and people from throughout the city attended. Two Turner organizations, the Athenaeum Turners and the South Side Turners, are still active in Indianapolis today.

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