History

Deutscher Verein is the 2nd oldest Social Club still in existence in New York City. We are proud to continue a long-standing tradition honoring it’s rich culture while offering a contemporary programming and club activities.

A brief overview of our history: 
 
December 4, 1842

DV-Logo-with-text-and-frame-300w copyDeutscher Verein was founded

Deutscher Verein was founded as the second Social Men’s Club after the Union Club with the objective to provide a platform for the intellectual, cultural and social life of Germans and Americans of German ancestry living in the area of New York City.

During the first years, the meetings took place at Delmonico House, 76 Broad Street. A growing membership base and the rapid expansion of New York City were the reasons for several changes of location during the years to follow.

 

January 1, 1891

history_2Deutscher Verein opens their own Club House

In 1891, Deutscher Verein moved to it’s own Club House on 112 Central Park South where it developed a very active club life. Membership grew to 350, and the Verein gained reputation and acclaim for its outstanding events. As a consequence or the difficult political and economic circumstances during World War I, however, Deutscher Verein ceased all activities temporarily, and the club house was abandoned for a few years.

 

March 14, 1920

 Club life developed into a new prime

Deutscher Verein reopened and soon after purchased another club house at 5 East 86th Street (today the home of the “Liederkranz”). Club life developed into a new prime but was again interrupted with the outbreak of World War II, and the property was sold.

 

December 1, 1945

 history_1@2xModern day club life develops

The first meeting of Deutscher Verein after WWII took place in December 1945. The celebration of the 104th Anniversary was the beginning of a series of regular events at Hotel Ambassador, Hotel St. Regis as well as repeatedly at the Liederkranz, where the Club maintained an office and used other facilities.

Since 1974, Deutscher Verein holds about 3-4 events per year at the elegant premises of the Union Club, 101 East 69th Street.

 

January 16, 2013

170 jahrfeier170th anniversary celebration.

The Deutscher Verein members gathered for an amazing 170th gala dinner. Please see some pictures here.