Germania History

HISTORY OF LADIES AUXILIARY-GERMANIA MAENNERCHOR June 8, 2000
by
Colleen Rice

On May 18, 1910, 19 ladies saw fit to assist the Male Chorus of Germania to start an Auxiliary. The following were elected as the first officers of this organization:

President Mrs. George Kuebler
V. President Miss Laura Illing
Rec. Sec. Mrs. Heinrich Boos
Treasurer Mrs. Paul Kaltofen

Meetings were held every 2 weeks on Monday nights. Dues were $.10 a month with a $.25 initiation fee. All business was conducted in the German language. Annual election of officers were held at the June Anniversary meeting until they were changed to be voted on in January in 1961, which is when they are still being held.

The Secretary’s book from 1910-1916 was written in German and I haven’t been able to find anyone who could translate it. Secretary’s books from 1917-1953 have not been found, nor has the book covering Jan. 1965 - Mar. 1973. All information comes from the books on hand.

> the Financial Secretary book we know that in January of 1943 there were 97 members paying dues. In 1949 membership grew to 133. Today there are 93 members. What is now called Membership Secretary started out as Financial Secretary.

> 1953 until 1964, 7 women held the office of President. In Jan. 1965, Elva Wright was elected to this office which she held until Dec. 1986. Since then, 5 other women have held this position to steer us to the 21st century.

The Auxiliary has held a bingo as their main source of income since before 1953. In Sept. 1955, State excise men closed the bingo and it wasn’t until mid year 1956 that it was reinstated. In 1987 there was no bingo held for 3 weeks because of bad weather. Bingo was again shut down on Aug. 26, 1992 due to the Indiana Gaming Commission issuing bingo licenses to operate a bingo. It was Feb. 16, 1994 when the current bingo began again, after all paper work was finished and license issued. Between these dates, the Auxiliary held Wed. afternoon card parties to try to meet the financial demands of the organization. It wasn’t until Jan. 1995 that the bingo paid for itself without using pull tab money to support it.

The Auxiliary has operated a kitchen during most of these years with a variety of sandwiches, soups and desserts offered to the players. In 1996, new kitchen equipment was installed in the upstairs party room so we would no longer have to run up and down the steps or use temporary equipment to provide this service. Today, the bingo is held only in the upstairs ballroom with all equipment and supplies easily available to workers.

Other ways the Auxiliary raised money in the past were pillow slip bingo’s, candy sales, bake sales, rummage sales, dessert and food tasting meetings, selling Christmas cards, vanilla, and chancing off items in meetings. Card parties were found to be an added source of income with the books showing May 23, 1957 reporting the first such being held with a profit of $103.66. In 1977, profit had grown to $1,337.54.

The first recorded quilt raffle at a card party was held in 1985 with Mary Lou Barton cross stitching a quilt top and Meta Schauss doing the quilting.

The first Chinese Auction was held in 1991 and the change from on the line to High/Low took place in 1992. 1994 was the first year a Chairlady was not appointed for the Card party. It was changed to being everyone’s responsibility to make a successful Card party and that is how it is still run today. The annual Card Party is held on the third Thursday in October.

In 1953, the Auxiliary trip was to Chicago, IL with 83 women participating. Those not able to go were treated to a party at the club. Transportation was by C.& E.I. railroad and only one meal was paid for by the Auxiliary totaling $282.20. Cost of the hotel for this trip was $675.36. In 1960, no trip was taken due to finances. 1982 saw the women attending the World’s Fair in Knoxville, TN where the China exhibit was the big attraction. 1996 was the 50th anniversary trip and destination was Wisconsin Dells, WI.

The position of flag bearer was held by Marie Schnieder for 41 years. This position was discontinued in the late 1970’s with the Vice-President put in charge of making sure the flag was present for the meeting.

The position of Sick Committee Chair was held by Pauline Jost for 16 years. She was followed by Doris Kaltofen in 1990 and in 1991, Shirley Rothmeier was appointed. She held this office until Feb. of 2000 when Elvera Godeke was appointed.

The following is a list of firsts that the Auxiliary has witnessed:

1955 - Auxiliary voted to have a "hold-over" Trustee
1962 - First Volksfest held since end of WWII
1975 - Alcohol was banned at meetings and the first Madrigal was held
1976 - Handkerchiefs were replaced by $.50 for members birthday gifts
1978 - Christmas exchange gifts were changed to donations to food bank
1979 - Attendance tickets given at bingo
1986 - Nickel drawing replaced penny drawing
1988 - Half pot started being sold at meeting
1994 - Rummage sales began being held regularly again.
1995 - Christmas cookies made by members to be served to bingo players
1997 - White Elephant sales after meetings were discontinued

These are changes to the building that the Auxiliary has contributed to over the years:

1958 - Opening made between singers room and Rathskeller
1960 - Air-Conditioning was installed
1968 - Steam table was added to the kitchen
1971 - Remodeling of back room completed with a pool table being added
1973 - Glass washer installed behind the bar for bartender’s convenience
1975 - Upstairs storage area converted to party room complete with sink
1976 - First dishwasher purchased
1977 - Kitchen cabinets, wall and exhaust fans installed
1986 - Tile in downstairs ladies restroom
1993 - New floor tile installed in kitchen
1994 - Stained glass window in Rathskeller purchased
1997 - Outside sign for messages
2000- Upstairs rest rooms and hallway re-tiled and stalls fixed

PAST OFFICERS

PRESIDENTS

Feb. 1938 - June1940 Rose Heimbeucher
July 1940 - June 1941 Frieda Felker
July 1941 - June 1942 Tillie Hagenbrook
July 1942 - June 1943 Anna Swobada
July 1944 - June 1947 Lena Reutter
July 1947 - June 1949 Elvira Brandasse
July 1949 - June 1951 Merry Wahnsiedler
July 1951 - June - 1953

July 1953
P. Agnes Karger
V. Elva Lewis
R. Ginny Singer
T. Esther Rausch
F. H. Jacobshagen Trustees

Trustees
Tille Springer
Josephine Brune
Sally Ruffert

Aug. 1954
P. Sally Ruffert
V. Martha Kahre
R. Bea West
T. Esther Rausch
F. Iva Heimbuecher

Trustees
Lena Hoffman
Edna Carlisle
Mame Reutter

Aug. 1955
P. Sally Ruffert
V. Martha Kahre
R. Bea West
T. Esther Rausch
F. Iva Heimbuecher

Trustees
Mame Rephan
Tillie Springer
Lena Hoffman

Aug. 1956
P. Martha Kahre
V. Minnie Karger
R. Mame Reutter
T. Bea West
F. Mildred Moore

Trustees
Tillie Springer
Edna Carlisle
Martha Vitzdamm/Mamie Woertz

Aug. 1957
P. Martha Kahre
V. Christine Roeder
R. Mame Reutter
T. Bea West
F. Mildred Moore

Trustees
Merry Wahnsiedler
Vera Roedel
Edna Carlisle

Aug. 1958
P. Martha Kahre
V. Emma Hudson
R. Mame Reutter
T. Bea West
F. Lorraine Struve

Trustees
Sally Ruffert
Cora Moll
Vera Roedel

Aug. 1959
P. Emma Hudson
V. Mame Reutter
R. Peggy Memmer
T. Bea West
F. Georgette Greene Trustees

Trustees
Cora Moll
C. Gastenweld
Imogene Duvall

Aug. 1960
P. Emma Hudson
V. Mame Reutter
R. Peggy Memmer
T. Bea West
F. Georgette Greene

Trustees
Cora Moll
C. Gastenweld
Imogene Duvall

Aug. 1961
P. Emma Hudson
V. Agnes Karger
R. Peggy Memmer
T. Esther Rausch
F. Georgette Greene

Trustees
C. Gastenweld
Dollah Stuter
Tillie Springer

Jan. 1962
P. Agnes Reutter
V. Sally Ruffert
R. Mame Reutter
T. Esther Rausch
F. Georgette Greene

Trustees
Tillie Springer
Dollah Stuter
Agnes Heron

1963
P. Emma Hudson
V. Peggy Memmer
R. Mame Reutter
T. Esther Rausch
F. Georgette Greene

Trustees
Agnes Herron
Tillie Springer
Mayme Woerz

1964
P. Elva Lewis
V. Mildred Moore
R. Dottie Felker
T. Esther Rausch
F. Georgette Greene

Trustees
Tillie Springer
Mayme Woerz
Martha Kahre

1973
P. Elva Wright
V. Millie Haak
R. Lorraine Smith
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Mary J. Epperson

Trustees
Peggy Memmer
Madonna Collins
Martha Kahre

1974
P. Elva Wright
V. Millie Haak
R. Dottie Felker
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Mame Reutter

Trustees
Mildred Moore
Madonna Collins
Martha Kahre

1975
P. Elva Wright
V. Millie Haak
R. Dottie Felker
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Mame Reutter

Trustees
Mildred Moore
Madonna Collins
Peggy Memmer

1976
P. Elva Wright
V. Millie Haak
R. Mary Ann Bryant
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Mame Reutter

Trustees
Valma Sunderman
Madonna Collins
Peggy Memmer

1977
P. Elva Wright
V. Millie Haak
R. Mary Ann Bryant
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Mame Reutter

Trustees
Madonna Collins
Georgia Wilson
Peggy Memmer/Valma Sunderman

1978
P. Elva Wright
V. Millie Haak
R. Colleen Rick
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Mame Reutter

Trustees
Margaret Frey
Madonna Collins
Georgia Wilson

1979
P. Elva Wright
V. Mildred Southard
R. Colleen Rick
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Mame Reutter

Trustees
Madonna Collins
Eileen Nichols
Margaret Frey

1980
P. Elva Wright
V. Mildred Southard
R. Colleen Rick
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Joyce Memmer

Trustees
Ettie Reutter
Eileen Nichols
Madonna Collins

1981
P. Elva Wright
V. Mildred Southard
R. Eileen Nichols
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Joyce Memmer

Trustees
Joan Kluemper
Peggy Memmer
Ettie Reutter

1982
P. Elva Wright
V. Mildred Southard
R. Eileen Nichols
T. Teresa O'Donnell
M. Dorothy A. Martin

Trustees
Ettie Reutter
Joan Kluemper
Peggy Memmer

1983
P. Elva Wright
V. Mildred Southard
R. Lucille Fowler
T. Eileen Nichols
M. Dorothy A. Martin

Trustees
Ettie Reutter
Nancy Haas
Geraldine Robertson

1984
P. Elva Wright
V. Mildred Southard.
R. Lucille Fowler
T. Eileen Nichols
M. Dorothy A. Martin

Trustees
Ettie Reutter
Nancy Haas
Geraldine Robertson

1985
P. Elva Wright
V. Mildred Southard
R. Lucille Fowler
T. Eileen Nichols
M. Dorothy A. Martin

Trustees
Ettie Reutter
Nancy Haas
Geraldine Robertson

1986
P. Elva Wright
V. Mildred Southard
R. Lucille Fowler
T. Eileen Nichols
M. Dorothy A. Martin

Trustees
Fern Young
Nancy Haas
Geraldine Robertson

1987
P. Dorothy L. Martin
V. Joyce Memmer
R. Nancy Haas
T. Eileen Nichols
M. Margaret Frey

Trustees
Dorothy A. Martin
Shirley Rothmeier
Lucille Fowler

1988
P. Dorothy L. Martin
V. Fern Young
R. Nancy Haas
T. Dorothy A. Martin
M. Carol Gorman

Trustees
Lucille Fowler
Shirley Rothmeier
Elouise Knepper

1989
P. Dorothy L. Martin
V. Fern Young
R. Lillian Schauss
T. Dorothy A. Martin
M. Carol Gorman

Trustees
Elouise Knepper
Meta Schauss
Rose Lattner

1990
P. Rose Ann Lomax
V. Dorothy L. Martin
R. Teresa O'Donnell
T. Dorothy A. Martin
M. Carol Gorman

Trustees
Rose Lattner
Meta Schauss
Fern Young

1991
P. Rose Ann Lomax
V. Dorothy L. Martin
R. Teresa O'Donnell
T. Dorothy A. Martin
M. Joanna Hayden

Trustees
Peggy Memmer
Elouise Knepper
Fern Young

1992
P. Rose Ann Lomax
V. Dorothy L. Martin
R. Teresa O'Donnell
T. Dorothy A. Martin
M. Joanna Hayden

Trustees
Peggy Memmer
Elouise Knepper
Pat Abernathy

1993
P. Millie Melchoirs
V. Geraldine Robertson
R. Rae Fields
T. Marilyn Monarch
M. Peggy Memmer

Trustees
Pat Abernathy
Hallie Singer
Delores Osterman

1994
P. Millie Melchoirs
V. Ruth Schaefer
R. Rae Fields
T. Marilyn Monarch
M. Peggy Memmer

Trustees
Delores Osterman
Hallie Singer
Wilma Lovell

1995
P. Millie Melchoirs
V. Joyce Hillenbrand
R. Rae Fields
T. Pat Abernathy
M. Peggy Memmer

Trustees
Joanna Hayden
Lillian Schauss
Loyce Clark

1996
P. Delores Osterman
V. Marilyn Monarch
R. Margaret Frey
T. Pat Abernathy
M. Joanna Hayden

Trustees
Lillian Schauss
Rose Lattner
Dorothy L. Martin

1997
P. Delores Osterman
V. Joyce Hillenbrand
R. Margaret Frey
T. Shawn Hillenbrand
M. Joyce Harp

Trustees
Rose Lattner
Dean Schaefer
Joanna Hayden

1998
P. Delores Osterman
V. Joyce Hillenbrand
R. Marilyn Monarch
T. Dorothy A. Martin
M. Joyce Harp

Trustees
Dean Schaefer
Joanna Hayden
Dorothy L. Martin

1999 2000
P. Pat Abernathy P. Pat Abernathy
V. Delores Osterman V. Delores Osterman
R. Colleen Rice R. Colleen Rice
T. Dorothy A. Martin T. Dorothy A. Martin
M. Teresa O'Donnell M. Teresa O’Donnell

Trustees Trustees
Margaret Frey Peggy Memmer
Peggy Memmer Rose Ann Lomax
Rose Ann Lomax Verna Deig

PAST PRESIDENTS
1937--Anna Swoboda
Feb. 1938- June 1940--Rose Heimbeucher
July 1941-June1941--Frieda Felker
July 1941-June 1942--Tillie Hagenbrook
July 1942-June 1944--Anna Swoboda
July 1944-June 1947--Lena Reutter
July 1947-June 1949--Elvera Brandsasse
July 1949-June 1951--Merry Wahnsiedler
June 1951-July 1954--Agnes Karger
Aug. 1954-July 1956--Sally Ruffert
Aug. 1956-July 1959--Martha Kahre
Aug. 1959-Dec. 1961--Emma Hudson
1962--Agnes Karger
1963--Emma Hudson
1964--Elva Lewis
1965-1986--Elva Wright
1987-1989--Dorothy L. Martin
1990-1992--Rose Ann Lomax
1993-1995--Millie Melchoirs
1996-1998--Delores Osterman
1999-2000--Pat Abernathy

TRIPS

1953 Chicago, IL - 83 women went by C.& E. I. Railroad
They ate 1 meal together for a total of $282.20 and their
hotel cost $675.36.

1954 Louisville, KY

1955 Chicago, IL with a side trip to Milwaukee, WI.
Party given at Germania for those not able to go on trip

1958 Detroit, MI/Canada Merry Wahnsiedler-Chair

1959 Louisville, KY Hotel $3.50 per person/night 2 buses-$251.50
Chairmen - Emma Hudson/Lorraine Strueve

1960 No trip due to finances

1961 Toledo, OH Merry Wahnsiedler

1963 Chicago, IL Louise Schmitt/Lillian Sunderman

1973 Atlanta, GA E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1974 New Orleans, LA E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1975 Washington, DC E. Wright/T. O'Donnell
Barbara Burleigh's husband made caricatures of roommatesand they were put on everyone's door.

1976 Kansas City, MO E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1977 Cincinnati, OH E. Wright/T. O'Donnell
Baby shower for Rae Fields

1978 Atlanta, GA E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1979 New Orleans, LA E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1980 Nashville, TN E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1981 Wisconsin Dells, WI E. Wright/T. O'Donnell
Had a dress up party at motel

1982 Knoxville, TN Attended the World's Fair E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1983 Atlanta, GA E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1984 Cincinnati, OH E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1985 Philadelphia, PA E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1986 Memphis, TN E. Wright/T. O'Donnell

1987 Silver Dollar City, MO T. O'Donnell/E. Nichols/L. Fowler

1988 St. Louis, MO D.L. Martin/D.A. Martin/F. Young

1989 Washington, DC

1990 Chicago, IL Joyce Memmer

1991 Nashville, TN Millie Melchoirs

1992 Columbus, OH Millie Melchoirs

1993 Branson, MO Joyce Hillenbrand

1994 Nashville, TN Joyce Hillenbrand

1995 Frankenmuth, MI J. Hillenbrand/B. Mann

1996 Wisconsin Dells, WI J. Hillenbrand/B. Mann
This was the 50th trip the women took

1997 New Orleans, LA J. Hillenbrand/B. Mann

1998 Atlanta, GA D.L. Martin/D.A. Martin

1999 Williamsburg, VA M. Monarch/P. Abernathy

2000 Memphis, TN D. Casteel/R. Meunsterman

VOLKSFESTS - MADRIGALS
1962 - Volksfest Aug. 16-17-18

1963 - Volksfest Aug. 8-9-10 (fish pond)

1974 - Volksfest Aug. 1-2-3

1975 - Volksfest Aug. 21-22-23
Madrigal Dec. 5-6

1976 - Volksfest Aug. 12-13-14
Madrigal Dec. 4-5 (bake table)

1977 - Volksfest Aug. 4-5-6

1978 - Volksfest Aug. 18-19-20

1979 - Volksfest Aug. 9-10-11

1981 - Volksfest Aug. 13-14-15

1982 - Volksfest Aug. 12-13-14

1983 - Volksfest Aug. 18-19-20
Madrigal Dec. 2-3-4 (called St. Nickolaus Fest)

1984 - Volksfest Aug. 7-8-9
Madrigal Dec. 7-8-9

1985 - Volksfest Aug. 8-9-10
Madrigal Dec. 6-7-8

1986 - Madrigal Dec. 5-6-7

1987 - Volksfest Aug. 7-8-9
Madrigal Dec. 5-6-7

1988 - Madrigal Dec. 3-4

1989 - Madrigal Dec. 2-3

1990 - Volksfest Aug. 7-8-9
Madrigal Dec. 7-8

1991 - Volksfest Aug. 8-9-10
Madrigal Dec. 6-7 (called Carol's by Candlelight)

1992 - Volksfest Aug. 13-14-15
Madrigal Dec. 4-5

1993 - Volksfest Aug. 12-13-14
Madrigal Dec. 3-4

1994 - Volksfest Aug. 11-12-13
Madrigal Dec. 2-3

1995 - Volksfest Aug. 12-13-14
Madrigal Dec. 8-9

1996 - Volksfest Aug. 11-12-13
Madrigal Dec. 6-7

1997 - Volksfest Aug. 7-8-9
Madrigal Dec. 5-6

1998 - Volksfest Aug. 6-7-8
Madrigal Dec. 4-5

1999 - Volksfest Aug. 5-6-7
Madrigal Dec. 3-4

BITS AND PIECES OF AUXILIARY HAPPENINGS

1953
Bingo Chairs were Sally Ruffert and Dollah Stuter. Chairlady was paid $5.00 and was in charge of the kitchen. Profits for Jan. 1953 were:
Reg. $280.92, Penny Bingo - $14.05.
Bingo was suspended in July, resumed in 1954.
Sick Committee Chair was Zarada Fulton.
The 1953 trip was to Chicago, IL. 83 women made the trip by train, ate 1 meal together as a group for a total of $282.20. Their total hotel cost was $675.36.
Curtains made by Lillian Sunderman, Members Beulah Shanks and Mary Market died.

1954
Co-Chair of Bingo - Dollah Stuter
Women bought a new freezer as the Anniversary gift to the men. In April a rummage sale was held and $35.00 was made.
Trip was to Louisville, KY. Lillian Sunderman made curtains.
Trustees took an inventory of the kitchen and everything belonging to the Auxiliary was locked up.
There were 4 new members joining and members Louise Wienrich, Mrs. Lindenburger, Cecelia Buning and Sophia Wardelman died during the year.
The Auxiliary bylaws were updated and the October meeting was a masquerade.

1955
Profits from the percentage bingo were put in the Travel Fund and in Sept., State Excise men stopped the bingo in Sept. Marie Beck was the first Telephone Committee Chair.
A rummage and bake sale was held as a fund raiser.
3 new members were accepted and member Louisa Britz died.
Annual trip was taken to Chicago, IL with a side trip to Milwaukee, WI.
It was voted to stagger voting for Trustees so there would be a holdover each year.
This was the first year for the President's pin.
Purchases included a refrigerator, T.V. and menu board.

1956
Bingo Chairs: Edna Wolf, Edna Carlisle, Lillian Sunderman and Mildred Moore. Sick Committee Chair: Margaret Groben. Telephone Chair: Sally Ruffert.
Two rummage sales were held, total profit of $54.20. Bake sale profit of $27.00. Anniversary gift to men was $750.00
The Auxiliary welcomed 4 new members, celebrated Olga Meier's 50th Wedding Anniversary and member Mary Schulze died.
Dinner prices were: Adult $1.00, Children $.65 with dessert being $.15 extra.
Auxiliary voted to have Honorary Members exempt from committee work.

1957
Bingo Chairs were Minnie Hofacker and Clara Drochelman. Telephone Chair: Clara Moll.
Raise floral arrangements for deaths to $8.00.
A bake/rummage sale and a cookie/candy sale were held for a totalprofit of $126.10.
10 new members, Mary McPhearson and Mary Killinger celebrated 50th Wedding Anniversaries and members Lena Reutter, Lena Hoffman, Janice Gottman, Lula Wahnsiedler, Rosa Felker and Mary Sommers died.
A card party was held on May 23, bylaws were changed to accept widows and ladies who have immediate male family members into the Auxiliary with the stipulation if member gets married she must resign unless new husband joins the Germania Maennerchor.
The kitchen was painted, 45 new male members were accepted and Auxiliary sold 150 cans of Stanley deodorizers to make $50.00.

1958
Sick Committee Chair stayed the same, Peggy Memmer was appointed Telephone Chair.
3 rummage sales, a bake sale and a candy sale were held earning the Auxiliary $160.55.
An opening was made between the Rathskeller and the singers room, the ladies restroom was cleaned and painted for a price of $76.57. Voted to pay Sick Committee Chair $10.00 semi-annually.
4 new members, Anna Wildt, Amelia Schenk and Emma Schinneman Celebrated 50th Wedding Anniversaries and members Lucy Tyler and Frieda Felker died.
Trip taken to Detroit, MI with a side trip to Canada.
Lillian Sunderman was chair of Card Party. Dinner/dances were called Open House and Marie Schnieder ended 41 years as flag bearer.

1959
Officers were voted on in July and held office until December of 1961 which is the year the Auxiliary changed bylaws and moved election of officers to January and had fiscal year run from January 1 - December 31.
In Aug., the early bird made $31.85 and the Regular bingo was $25.60 in the hole.
Margaret Trautvetter was appointed chair of the Sick Committee and held this until 1963.
Auxiliary voted that member must be ill at home or in hospital 7 days before getting a planter. Two rummage sales and a white elephant sale made $67.89.
Three new members joined and Ella Long and Mame Repphan celebrated 50th Wedding Anniversaries and member Marie Schneider died.
Trip to Louisville, KY resulted in the hotel charging $3.50 per person and 2 buses costing a total of $251.50.
Card Party was chaired by Martha Kahre. Bathrooms, hall and ceiling in Rathskeller were painted.

1960
Vera Roedel was appointed Telephone Chair and the first pillow slip bingo was held making $78.20, 2 card parties made $155.04. The women helped the men purchase and install an air conditioner.
The Auxiliary took a loan for $1,000.00 for 4 years with monthly payments of $43.26.
There were 2 new members and 50th Wedding Anniversary celebrated by Adelaide Kanowsky..
A new flag with 50 stars was presented in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the Aux.
No trip was taken due to finances being slim.
Christmas exchange gift prices were raised from $.50 to $1.00, members started writing names on slips of paper for penny drawing instead of using capsules.
An Anniversary Party was held at the club May 15-18 and on May 21,the men entertained the women during their meeting.

1961
Voted to have the Vice-President work alongside the Bingo Chair.
Voted for sick committee chair to spend $3.00 on Christmas gifts for shut-ins. Bylaws were changed.
Dues were raised to $2.00with out of town members paying $1.00. Dottie Felker and Georgette Greene fixed up the entrance hall.
Two new members welcomed and Sabina Gottman enjoyed 50th Wedding Anniversary.
Auxiliary had 107 members and the trip was to Toledo, OH. Fund raisers were 2 card parties, a pillow slip bingo and a whiteelephant sale.

1962
A pillow slip bingo made $66.80 and a White Elephant Sale made $22.40
Sick Committee Chairs - Margaret Trautvetter and Louis Schmitt.
The first Volksfest was held on Aug. 16-17-18 and some of the ladies sewed flags and hung them in the upstairs ballroom.
One new member joined and one member, Mayme Woerz had her 50th Wedding Anniversary. A cakewalk was held at the Auxiliary picnic.

1963
Sick Committee Chair - Emma Hudson
Volksfest was held Aug. 8-9-10 with the Auxiliary sponsoring a Fish Pond.
Five women joined and member Margaret Trautvetter died.
Trip to Chicago, IL taken. Two card parties were held.
Women changed meeting nights to Tues. on March 12 and had to hold them in the back room since conflicted with men's rehearsal.
Voted to have lunch committee names be drawn from total members, not just bingo workers. Fish suppers were held on Friday nights starting Jan. 18 and meeting time was changed to 7:00 in July.

1964
Bingo Chairs were Sally Ruffert and Clara Drochelman. During lent, a Monday night bingo was held.
Sick Committee Chair is Louise Schmitt and Telephone Chair is Madonna Collins.
Pillow case bingo profit of $222.45 and a White Elephants sale made $19.10. Card Party with Lillian Sunderman in charge made $123.38
Men built a storage cabinet in back room, Auxiliary bought a bulletin board and a 4 step step ladder at the suggestion of Martha Kahre.
On May 9, a Jubilee was held celebrating completion of building in 1914.
6 new members joined, 50th Wedding Anniversary-Florence Lutterbach and members Bertha Koch, Minnie Hofacker and Marie Schwan died Betty Wilkerson typed and passed out copies of Auxiliary list to members.

1965
Elva Wright elected President
Between 1964 and 1973 meetings were moved to the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m.Parties for women not going on the annual trip were discontinued.Due to records not found, history continues starting 1973.

1973
Bingo Chair is Mildred Moore. Sick Chairlady is Pauline Jost.
Christmas party was held for bingo workers. Downstairs bathroom walls were washed, ceiling panels replaced and rust removed to make rest rooms more presentable.
Voted to have a$10 wreath purchases for members who die. 6 new members, 50th Wedding Anniversary - Mrs. Beck and these members died - Cora Moll, Leona Reis, Esther Goodrum, Lorraine Strueve, June Bassett, Louise Schmitt, Cornelia Gastenveld and Martha Dillman.
The annual Bingo trip was to Atlanta, GA, started having only one card party per year held in Nov. Madonna Collins was chair for Nov 29th card party reporting a profit of $439.53.
A glass washer for downstairs bar, new floor tile behind bar and 2 utility carts were some of the purchases made by Auxiliary.
Children's choir directed by Herschel Condit was the entertainment at June dinner.
Auxiliary held a Christmas party for the children at the Evansville State Hospital.

1974
Bingo Chairs were Millie Haak and Birdie French.
Trip was taken to New Orleans, LA, Volksfest was held Aug. 1-2-3, and the November meeting was a Sarah Coventry jewelry party.
Card party held in Nov. 17 new members and 3 members were lost due to death - Avis Schenk, Amelia Bennett and Lena Hitch. Bingo committee workers are to also work dinners and anything else that comes up during the month.
Auxiliary purchased a case and a wreath for deceased members along with a pool table and round tables and chairs for pool room.

1975
Telephone Chair is Mildred Southard.
Bylaws were changed so that members have to have a husband affiliated with the Germania Maennerchor and no alcoholic beverages are allowed in meetings. 25 new members welcomed with 2 members being mourned - Sabina Gottman and Lorene Wirth. The upstairs storage room was converted to a party room with help from the women. Volksfest was held Aug. 21-22-23 and the first Grandfest held December 5-6. Washington, DC was the site picked for the bingo trip. Caricatures were drawn of the women by a members husband and these were displayed on members hotel room doors.

1976
Bingo Chair - Georgia Wilson. Carol Hyatt replaces Pat Garrison as caller.
Trip was to Kansas City, MO and 2 White Elephant sales made $107.25. 9 new members joined and we lost past president Elva Lewis.
Volksfest was held Aug. 12-13-14 and Grandfest was Dec. 4-5 with the Auxiliary providing a bake table. Annual Card Party was held Nov. 18.
Birthday handkerchiefs were replaced with $.50 and this was the first year the men and women had a combined club picnic held on Sept. 19. Christmas gifts for shut-ins was raised to $3.50. Auxiliary made skirts, vests and aprons for the lady singers.

1977
Voted to have the Sick Committee Chair send a card and $2.00 instead of planter to those ill or hospitalized.
The downstairs kitchen was remodeled, bartender Gordon Thurmond retired, New kitchen cabinets, wall and exhaust fans were installed and Christmas exchange gift prices were raised from $1.00 to $2.00.
Trip voting will be held in Jan. Auxiliary trip to Cincinnati, OH with a baby shower held for Rae Fields being enjoyed. Nov. 19 Card Party chaired by Mary Ann Bryant and Rae Fields was the first year a bake table was provided. Five women joined the ranks and we mourned members Alma Korff, Bertha Waltman and Elinor Reis. Volksfest was held Aug. 4-5-6.

1978
Women take over the kitchen during the bingo and keep profits. Voted to pay Sick Committee Chair to pass a bowl at June and December dinners for donations to pay for gifts, planters, etc.. Exchange gifts at Christmas were changed to donations of canned/non-perishable items for needy. Friday night craft nights were held from Sept. 22 - Dec. 1 for items to sell at madrigal. Card Party held Nov. 18 chaired by Madonna Collins/Joyce Hillenbrand. Trip taken to Atlanta, GA, Volksfest held Aug. 18-19-20 17 new members, 1 death - Dora Kaltofen and Mame and Mann Reutter celebrated 50 years of wedded bliss.

1979
Teresa O'Donnell appointed Bingo Chair and Janet Offerman appointed Telephone Chair. Attendance tickets given to those playing regular bingo and Auxiliary voted to allow women join the Lady Singers but have no affiliation with the Auxiliary. Voted to buy planters instead of flowers for deceased members. Volksfest was held Aug 9-10-11 with the new bar in ballroom put to good use. 13 women joined, Evelyn Vitzdamm died and Georgette Greene celebrated 50th Wedding Anniversary. Trip taken to New Orleans, LA with Hawaiian theme used for initiation. Card Party held on Nov. 15. Membership of Dee Darr terminated.

1980
New television purchased, raised dues to $5.00, voted children not allowed in meetings, to have Sick Chair call and send cards to hospitalized members, members must be present to run for office, change White Elephant to Sept. meeting and covered dish to Oct. also, to vote on trip destination to February meeting. Trip taken to Nashville, TN, Card Party held on Nov. 20. 13 new members welcomed and celebrated 50th wedding anniversaries of Rosa Schwabe and Dorothy Voelker.

1981
Volksfest held Aug. 13-14-15, Ginny Singer, Mildred Moore and Lorraine Weisinger celebrated 50th wedding anniversaries. Trip taken to Wisconsin Dells, WI. and Fall Card Party held on Nov. 19. Auxiliary started paying $20.00 for janitor service, voted to pay $12.00 for planters for deceased members.

1982
Lucille Fowler is Telephone Chair. The men painted the kitchen. Volksfest was held Aug. 12-13-14. There were 9 new members and one 50th Wedding Anniversary -Marguerite Ungentheim. Trip was taken to Knoxville, TN to attend the World's Fair where a dress up patio party was held. Joan Kluemper dressed as a "biker chick". TV crew from "Real People" were guests at the club. The October meeting was a dessert taster's party, $.10 a taste and members made and sold tomato relish as fund raisers.

1983
Telephone Chair is Mame Ruetter. 14 new members were welcomed. Volksfest was held Aug. 18-19-20, and the St. Nickolaus Fest was a three day affair held Dec. 2-3-4. Trip was taken to Atlanta, GA. June entertainment provided by "Germania Rockettes" which included Joan Kluemper, Gerry Robertson, Eileen Nichols, Colleen Rice and Rae Fields. Card party tallies were raised to $.75. Mary Ann Bryant and Ettie Reutter co chaired the card party.

1984
Card Party assessment of $2.00 per member started and dues are raised to $8.00 per year. Men remodeled downstairs restroom, Volksfest was Aug. 7-8-9. St. Nick Fest - Dec. 7-8-9. Club picnic was held at Burdette Park with the Aux. paying for skating/swimming for children. New Bingo machine and stand were purchased. 19 new members joined and Minnie Karger and Mary Wildt died. Trip to Cincinnati, OH. Card Party held Nov. 15.

1985
Aux. voted Bingo Chairs, Early Bird worker and callers are eligible to go on trip without working specified month. Volksfest held Aug. 8-9-10 and St. Nick Fest Dec. 6-7-8. There were 8 new members, Vivian Bryant and Vera Roedel had 50th Wedding Anniversaries and Madonna Collins died. Trip was to Philadelphia, PA. A quilt was chanced off at the Nov. 21 Card Party for the first time. Mary Lou Barton cross-stitched it and Meta Schauss did the quilting. Limit of 500 miles one way was placed on future trip destinations and Trustees were placed in charge of bingo laundry. A "Evansville Trivia Game" was compiled by the City of Evansville and member Hallie Singer helped on the committee.

1986
Bingo Chair is Gerry Robertson and Trustees are to get committee workers to take home laundry. Voted to pay Sick Chair $25.00 and the Treasurer $30.00semi-annually, bylaws are changed to limit terms in office and the Penny drawing was raised to a Nickel. Members also voted to remain seated during the silent prayer for the sick and deceased. New tile was installed in the downstairs restroom, Card Party was held on Nov. 20. Trip was taken to Memphis, TN. The St. Nick Fest was held Dec. 5-6-7. There were 6 new members and Jean Freeman and Clara Drockelmann died.

1987
Elva Wright ended 21 consecutive years as being President. In January, the bingo was canceled for 3 weeks due to weather. Volksfest held Aug. 7-8-9 and the St. Nick Fest was Dec. 5-6-7. Eight women joined the Auxiliary and longtime members Martha Kahre, Frieda Spicer and Agnes Koob died. Trip taken to Silver Dollar City, MO, smoking was banned during meetings, voted to dispense with favors at Anniversary dinner, members going on trip to pay $20.00 and member Joyce Hillenbrand had a fire in her home. Germania held mini Volksfest for Keller Crescent.

1988
St. Nick Fest held Dec. 3-4, 13 new members welcomed, Card Party date was changed to hold it annually on the third Thursday of October. Voted to remove mileage restriction on trip and St. Louis, Mo. was voted as destination. Sick Committee Chair opened Checking Acct. and drawing for 1/2 Pot started at meetings. National Singers Convention was held April 29-30, with the District being held June 11 & 12.

1989
Elva Wright appointed Bingo Chair. Pauline Jost resigned as Sick Chair after 16 years with Doris Kaltofen appointed to replace her. Telephone chair is Joyce Alvey, A smoke eater was bought for men's Anniversary gift. Trip taken to Washington, DC, 2 ladies became members and the St. Nick Fest was held Dec. 2 & 3. George Marx ceased having bingo's at the club.

1990
Sick Committee Chair directed to take a $10.00 Christmas gift and a $5.00 birthday gift to Honorary members and shut-ins. The downstairs kitchen was remodeled, trip to Chicago, IL, 5 new members, Volksfest held Aug. 7-8-9 and St. Nick Fest held Dec. 7 & 8 with the Lady Singers taking over the cookie table.

1991
Bingo Chair is Rose Lattner, drawing for free play started, Sick Chair is Shirley Rothmeier and Rae Fields is appointed Telephone Chair. 7 new members and Fern Young, Valada Rosenmeier and Peggy Memmer celebrated 50th Wedding Anniversaries. Trip was taken to Nashville, TN., Volksfest held Aug. 8-9-10, the first Chinese Auction was held at the Oct. 17 Card Party and Carols by Candlelight held on Dec. 6 & 7.

1992
Annual trip was taken to Columbus, OH, 2 new members welcomed, bingo was suspended Aug. 26 due to Indiana Gaming Commission. Dusk to dawn lights were installed, Volksfest held Aug. 13-14-15 and Carols by Candlelight was on Dec. 4 & 5. Card Party was changed from "On the Line" to "High/Low" and members collected donated items to be chanced off.

1993
Wed. Afternoon card parties are held to raise funds, bingo section removed from bylaws, new tile laid in kitchen, June entertainment was a hat show put on by ladies from the Auxiliary. Three new members, 50th Wedding Anniversaries of Mary Embry and Mary Tighe. Dorothy Voelker died. Trip taken to Branson, MO. Volksfest held Aug. 13-14-15, rummage sale held on Sept 18. Nov. 11 Wed. Afternoon Card Parties are canceled and Carols are held on Dec. 4 & 5.

1994
Feb. 16 Bingo resumes. Changed to all paper. Chairs are Elva Wright and Gerry Robertson. Kitchen profit is $147.85, Bingo $105.50 and Pull-tabs $1,942.00. Bingo profits must be placed in a separate checking acct. New bylaws adopted, stained glass window purchased, Telephone chair is Joyce Memmer. No new members and we lost 2 members, Joan Kluemper and Ellen Kroener. June entertainment was the Lady Singer's from Dusseldorf, Germany who got lost and were rescued by President Steve Rode. Trip to Nashville, TN, Volksfest held Aug. 11-12-13, Card Party held Oct. 20 and Carols on Dec. 2-3.

1995
One lady joined the Auxiliary, two 50th Wedding Anniversaries -Ginny Ennis and Martha Mullen. Members Dorothy Hohl, Mary Wirth, Mamie Kautz and Vivian Bryant died. January was the first month the bingo supported itself and it was the first year cookies were offered at Christmas to the players. Card Party held on Oct. 19 Voted to have Sick Committee Chair send a meat and cheese tray for deceased members or their spouses. Browne sisters were June entertainment and trip was taken to Frankenmuth, MI. Volksfest held Aug. 12-13-14 and Carols on Dec. 8-9.

1996
Bingo Chair - Pat Abernathy. Auxiliary starts paying to have tables set up for bingo and paying $200.00 rent for building. Also voted to increase monthly charitable donations to $50.00 each. Installation of kitchen equipment and sealer put on floor in upstairs room completed, a new bingo machine was purchased along with a refrigerator and hand sink 4 new members, three 50th Wedding Anniversaries - Rosemary Muensterman, Elvera Godeke and Margaret Frey and 6 deaths were reported Ettie Reutter, Elva Wright, Jacqueline Klump, Gloria Weber, Loyce Clark and Marguerite Ungentheim. Trip taken to Wisconsin Dells, WI, Peggy Memmer celebrates 50 years as a member and is given a Lifetime membership. Volksfest held Aug. 11-12-13, Card Party on Oct. 17, and Carols on Dec. 6 & 7.

1997
Volksfest held Aug. 7-8-9, Carols on Dec. 5 & 6, and it was the first year the club sponsored a booth at the Fall Festival. Card Party held on Oct. 16 Bingo workers assessed $10.00 if they are on committee and don't show up or find replacement. New bylaws adopted, stove is purchased for room upstairs, voted to no longer have White Elephant Sales and 3 ladies joined the ranks. There were 2 deaths, Teresa Schwartz and Mary Embry, also one 50th Wedding Anniversary - Ruth Schaefer. Trip taken to New Orleans, LA.

1998
Dorothy L. Martin had a 50th Wedding Anniversary and members Bettye Hasse and Rosa Schwabe died. Trip to St. Louis, MO taken by bingo workers, new bingo equipment/verifier installed and an air conditioner and deep fryer was purchased. Card Party held Oct. 15 Annual trip to Atlanta, GA, Volksfest was on Aug. 6-7-8 and Carols was on Dec. 4 & 5.

1999
Bingo Chairs - Delores Osterman and Pat Abernathy Microwave and tables purchased, a trip was taken to Louisville, KY by bingo workers in Oct. Volksfest held Aug. 5-6-7. Annual trip was to Williamsburg, VA with members voting in July to put a 500 mile one way limit on future trips. Voting for annual trip was changed from Feb. meeting to Oct. meeting. Card Party held on Oct. 21 and Carols on Dec. 3-4. Sick Chair is to send a card only for shut-ins and hospitalized members. At Christmas, she is to send $5.00 checks to Honorary Members and take a gift to members in nursing homes. There were 2 new members, Rose Lomax and Pat Wargel celebrated 50th Wedding Anniversaries and members Hazel Stadler, Vaneda Briody and Mildred Southard died. Auxiliary is compiling a "Cookbook 2000" with recipes donated by members.

2000
Bingo Chairs-Delores Osterman and Pat Abernathy. Upstairs restrooms and hallway re-tiled and stalls fixed. Trip to Memphis, TN in June. Sold ‘Chicken Hats’ and ‘Dancing Chickens’ at Volksfest. 11 new members and 3 long time members died; Mary Tighe, Mame Reutter and Rae Fields. Aux. purchased 10 chafing dishes and 20 pans, a cabinet to store them in, slaw cutter blade and repairs to potato masher. The Ladies also hired a cleaning firm to clean all of upstairs ballroom that wasn’t repainted in advance of the District meeting and made and installed new curtains. The Aux. also increased the monthly donation to the club to $500.00 per month.