Athenaeum Turners in decorated room photograph, ca. 1910

Social activities involving food, drink, dancing, and good conversation have always been an important part of German-American life. Turnvereins served as one of the social centers of the German-American community, along with churches, schools, and musical societies. The social activities, however, sometimes became a point of contention between German-Americans and other groups in society who disapproved of dancing and the use of alcoholic beverages.

Access Aids:

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