The Heritage of the Plattdeutsche Volksfest Vereen of NY & NJ
For nearly 150 years, the Plattdeutsche Volksfest Vereen (PVV) of New York and New Jersey has stood as a proud steward of German-American heritage. Established in 1875, our organization emerged from the collective efforts of several German clubs dedicated to preserving the language, customs, and traditions of the Plattdeutsche people—German-speaking communities from the flatlands of northern Germany. Over generations, the PVV has become a pillar of cultural preservation, community support, and celebration for German-Americans in the New York and New Jersey region.
Our Origins- A Legacy Rooted in Tradition:
The PVV’s origins can be traced back to the late 19th century when waves of German immigrants settled in the United States, bringing with them a deep sense of community and cultural pride. In August 1874, German-American organizations hosted a grand festival near Schuetzen Park in North Bergen, New Jersey. The event drew an astonishing crowd of over 125,000 attendees across six days, solidifying the need for an organization that could bring together and preserve the rich traditions of Plattdeutsche heritage. This momentous gathering laid the foundation for what would officially become the Plattdeutsche Volksfest Vereen in 1875.
Our Mission- Preserving and Celebrating German Culture: At its core, the PVV is dedicated to upholding the traditions, language, and camaraderie of the Plattdeutsche people. Throughout the decades, our mission has remained steadfast:
* Cultural Preservation – Ensuring that the Plattdeutsche dialect, customs, music, and folk traditions continue to thrive.
* Community Engagement – Bringing together German-Americans through shared celebrations, gatherings, and charitable efforts.
* Historic Stewardship – Honoring the legacy of our ancestors and their contributions to American society.
Our Historic Contributions- Schuetzen Park & Beyond: Schuetzen Park, a historic gathering place for German-Americans, has long been associated with the PVV. The park once housed the Fritz-Reuter Altenheim, a home for the aged, which provided care and support for elderly German-Americans. Many of our early festivals and cultural gatherings were held within this space, reinforcing the importance of community among German immigrants and their descendants.
Today, the PVV is comprised of six member organizations, each contributing to the strength and longevity of our cultural presence:
* New York Schuetzen Corp. (Men’s and Ladies’ Auxiliaries)
* Hoboken F.C.
* German Couture Club
* Steinauer Club
* Rheinischer Sängerbund NY
These groups actively participate in the continuation of our traditions, ensuring that the PVV remains a vibrant and welcoming home for all those who cherish their German roots.
Our Celebrations & Events- Keeping Tradition Alive:
Throughout the years, the PVV has maintained a commitment to hosting lively and meaningful cultural events that honor German heritage and provide opportunities for community gathering. Some of our most cherished traditions include:
* Volksfest – Our flagship summer festival, filled with music, dance, authentic German cuisine, and games that reflect our cultural heritage. This event serves as a joyful reunion for families, friends, and newcomers eager to experience German traditions firsthand.
* Steuben Parade Participation – Every year, the PVV proudly sponsors a float in the German-American Steuben Parade in Manhattan. This parade, which celebrates German contributions to American history, pays tribute to Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, a Prussian general who played a vital role in the American Revolutionary War.
Looking to the Future: Our Ongoing Commitment: As we approach our 150th anniversary, the PVV remains committed to fostering a deep appreciation for German culture among future generations.
We continue to welcome members who share our passion for preserving traditions while embracing the evolving landscape of German-American identity.
Through our festivals, charitable efforts, and community outreach, we ensure that the spirit of the Plattdeutsche Volksfest Vereen endures—celebrating not only where we come from, but also the shared values of heritage, unity, and cultural pride that define us.
Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and build a future where German-American traditions continue to thrive!