The building was constructed in 1927-29 of Carthage Limestone in a Gothic style on approximately 1˝ acres of land, which was part of the original Creek allotment to Nathanial N. Perryman. The German-American Society of Tulsa purchased the church in 1991, primarily for our own use as a cultural and social center. To defray the cost of maintaining the building, we also make it available for public rental.

The German-American Society Center is located adjacent to the Gillette Historical District, one block west of Lewis Avenue on the corner of 15th Street and Terrace Drive and easily accessible from any part of Tulsa. The Center's beautiful design, prestigious setting and comfort make it desirable for any kind of function from business meetings to formal evening occasions. The Great Hall can accommodate up to 200 guests for a sit-down dinner or 300 for a buffet reception. It features a polished wood floor with room for tables and chairs as well as an area for dancing. The stage can easily accommodate a band or a DJ. We also have an antique theater organ and a baby grand piano available for use by prior arrangement. The rental fee covers use of tables, chairs, portable bar and the services of a Security Officer during the rental period. The décor of the Great Hall includes original antique chandeliers, stained glass windows and abundant dark wood. Handicap facilities are available.

For a truly memorable event, there is no finer place in Tulsa than the Great Hall of the German- American Society Center for special events. For more information or to make an appointment to view the facilities, please call 744-6997 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 A.M. to 3 P.M.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Please look at some of the pictures we took to document the big event as we acquired the building. Images 1 & 2 depict several of the people who were instrumental in the planning for, and acquisition of, the facility. Images 3 & 4 show the interior of the Great Hall as it appeared at the time of acquisition. Images 5, 6 & 7 show the building exterior as it appeared at the time of acquisition in the Fall of 1991. The remaining images, 8, 9, 10 & 11 chronicle the events during the formal transfer of the facilities and property. Then Building Corporation President Ed Lenfesty, signs the necessary documents while Building Corporation Board and Society members look on.

Although the building had been soundly constructed and well-maintained, many changes and repairs were needed to enhance its functionality and usability. Some of these activities include: leveling the floor of the Great Hall, replacing the heating and air conditioning system, adding storm windows and doors, installing a sound and a security system, repairing and adding sidewalks, a sprinkler system and landscaping--all of which have been completed. Just off the foyer, we created a library. Across the large and formal foyer, a fully functional "Bierstube" (Bar) is available to serve a variety of liquid refreshments at our events. All around the foyer, halfway up the walls, we have placed the flags of all the German Bundesländer (states). Fine pieces of antique furniture further enhance its ambiance. The Great Hall features a polished wood-floor, antique chandeliers and lots of dark wood. We've also created a catering kitchen just off the dance floor. A small room adjacent to the kitchen and accessible from the Great Hall serves as a dressing room or just a place to rest one's weary feet.

In 1999, we completed a new lighting system and added an audio/visual console in our downstairs meeting room. We also installed new carpeting in the classrooms and around the periphery of the main meeting room. The central area of the meeting room is delineated with natural wood columns and parquet-like floor; a committee is studying future uses for this area. We utilize the smaller rooms as classroom and storage space. Plans are in progress for adding a coffee bar in an alcove off the meeting room to enhance the room's functionality for small, informal social events or meetings. Except for a handicapped restroom upstairs, our main restrooms and a cloakroom are located in the downstairs hall.

Image 1

Image 2

Image 3

Image 4

Image 5

Image 6

Image 7

Image 8

Image 9

Image 10

Image 11