Indianapolis Gardeners Benefit Society Records

Collection

Identifier: MSS072

Staff Only

The collection consists of four volumes of minutes from the organization's meetings, 1897-1977. The first volume (1897-1899) also contains membership lists and accounts. The records, all handwritten, are in German prior to 1950 and in English since 1950.

Dates

1867 - 1985

Creator

Indianapolis Gardner's Society (Creator, Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open to the public without restriction.

Conditions Governing Use

The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material.

Extent

3 Cubic Feet (5 flat boxes)

Additional Description

Historical Note

Mutual benefit societies have served as social support organizations for many immigrant groups, including the German community in Indianapolis. Several societies of this type (known as "Unterstutzungs Vereins" in German) were formed in the city during the latter half of the nineteenth century. Many of these societies drew their members from a specific segment of the German community. One example is the Indianapolis Gardeners Benefit Society. Formed on July 6, 1867, its membership was restricted to Indianapolis area greenhouse and outside gardeners. The society remains active, offering its members sickness and death benefit payments and a monthly fellowship meeting. It is also a member of the city's Federation of German Societies.