In 1960, a small group of neighbors met to explore the possibility of forming an association for those interested in saving the community from the wrecking balls. In just a few months, community activist Frank Fetch recruited 183 people to charter the German Village Society.

While the issues and concerns have changed over the decades, the importance of community, a regard for tradition, and an appreciation for a unique quality of life continue to unify us as a neigh-borhood. The members of the German Village Society are the stewards and trustees of this commonality of purpose, tradition and history.

Governed by a board of trustees elected by the full membership, the German Village Society is a civic association with a 48-year history of successfully harnessing the devotion and tenacity of its members. In 1992, the organization purchased and renovated the German Village Meeting Haus at 588 South Third Street to serve as a community-gathering place,
a Visitor's Center, and office.

In addition to the Board of Trustees, the German Village Society has five Standing Committees to oversee the projects and update programs of the institution. A dedicated staff supports the committees and the membership. Katharine Moore is the Executive Director, Linda Casale is the director of events, P. Susan Sharrock is the administrative co-ordinator and Jody Graichen serves as the Historic Preservation Director. The membership is open to all who support our mission.

Membership cost: Individual $40 Household $60 Supporter $125 Patron $250 Benefactor $500 Legacy Circle $1,000 Non Retail + Restaurant Business $200 Retail + Restaurant Business $250 Cornerstone Business $500 Download membership application now (Requires the free Adobe® Reader®) Click here to fill out a Membership Application Online Click here for a Letter to Residents from GVS President, Mary L. Cusick Or, call the Meeting Haus at 614/221-8888 to request an application by mail.

Our operating budget comes from events such as Oktoberfest and the Haus und Garten Tour, membership dues, grants, corporate sponsorship and contributions. Our expenses include staff, community programs, publications such as the newsletter and membership directory, the oper-ations of the Meeting Haus and contributions to area organizations including Actors' Theatre and our Giving Rewards partners.

The members of the German Village Society serve as Caretakers of A Legacy, dedicated to retaining the character and distinction of the past, while creating a thriving and contemporary community in German Village.