Program

Indiana Historical Bureau

Subject

Arts & Culture, Building, Site

Location

270 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA

Lat/Long

39.75255556, -86.15338889

Grant Recipient

Indiana Historical Bureau

Historic Marker

South Side Turnverein

Inscription

South Side Turnverein

Side One: South Side Turnverein
The South Side Turnverein, an athletic and social club founded in 1893, fostered German cultural traditions in Indianapolis. It promoted the Turner philosophy of integrated mind and body wellness and expanded under the leadership of German immigrant and local businessman Henry Victor. Its hall, designed by local architects Vonnegut and Bohn, was completed in 1900.

Side Two: South Side Turnverein
The South Side Turnverein hosted many athletic events, including the 1903 North American Turnerbund and Gymnastics Association’s contest. In response to anti-German sentiment during WWI, the club publicly displayed its commitment to the United States. While membership peaked in the 1930s, it continued promoting athletics and physical education programs for decades.

Installed 2023 Indiana Historical Bureau, William G. Pomeroy Foundation, David E. Steele, and the Atkins Brougher Family