South
Bend German Turnverein / Turners Club
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1. Article from the SBT about the Turners Club
2. SBT Article about a photo found from 1887
The South Bend Turnverein reached its Centenary in June of 1961. The strong old world character of the club has evaporated over the years, but it is still worthy of recounting to those unfamiliar.
The origins of the South Bend Turners stem from 19th century Germany and the German love of music, drama and a deep respect for the human body. On June 13 1861 10 German men gathered for the first meeting of the South Bend Turners. The German word “turner” translates literally into gymnast or athlete and the word Verein means Club.
The idea of “turning” or physical exercise was the focal point of the organization, with the philosophy that exercise not only rejuvenated the body but also the spirit. The group gradually expanded its agenda to include a social and cultural focus.
In 1863, a male German singing organization called the South Bend Liederkranz was incorporated into the Turnverein, and in 1867 the first German plays were performed by club members.
The first “Turner Hall” at 503 N Michigan that remained in virtually the same outward appearance for the next 110 years. In 1974 the club moved to modern facilities on Ironwood Road north of the city. In 1997 faced with declining membership and competition from numerous Health Clubs the new site was acquired in a tax sale by the NBD Bank.
Source: South Bend Tribune 5-14-1999
For more information on the Turner's please go to their web site at: http://liturners.org/History.htm
Informations Submitted by: Jim Piechorowski and John Kovatch
Project Started: Wednesay, September 07, 2005 - 08:36:15 PM
Updated: Thursday, September 08, 2005 04:23:40 PM
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