1315 West Anna Street
Grand Island, Nebraska
(308) 382-0586

The Platt Duetsche is a private social club originally organized by a group of Low Germans ("plattdeutsche") in 1884 to preserve the traditions of their motherland.  Meetings and club events were held at changing locations through the years, at the Liederkranz building, Hann Park and Schimmer's Lake.  Our present building, the former Ott Ice House, was purchased in 1910 and renovating was immediate.  Grass and weeds were cut, trees trimmed and cleaning began of the large brick building.  Just days later, the membership initiated the new quarters with a big picnic and dancing to the Dixie Band on a temporary dance floor on the grounds.  During the year long remodeling process, windows and doors were cut in and installed and a second story dance hall was built.  At the formal opening, decorations were hjung in American and German colors with sprays of oak leaves, the emblem of the society.  The building was described as the finest in the state of Nebraska and a credit to the city of Grand Island.

The lake, which has previously been used to harvest ice, was enjoyed by the membership for many years.  Gradually, the area dried up and rubble from local demolition began to fill the area.  By the late 1950's, it was completely covered.  Under the leadership of club president, Art Schwieger, the first ball field was completed in 1960 in the area and the new dancehall addition in 1961.  In 1989, the second field was finished.

The Platt Duetsche has many traditions and events that everyone looks forward to each year:  the annual children's Easter Egg Hunt, Christmas and Halloween parties, the fast pitch softball league and tournament activity, River Dog baseball, golf league, the Running of the Wieners, the Thanksgiving Buffet, birthday celebrations, wedding receptions and anniversaries.  Every month our membership enjoys card games, Cars and Coffee, Hamburger Nights, Mixed and Stag Feeds, noon lunches, the Ladies Luncheon and the Friday Night Special.  The most important Platt Duetsche tradition, holding strong since our formation, is that we are a family club.

Membership is obtained by written application with recommendation from two members in good standing. The initiation fee is $25.00. After approval, membership is completed by a swearing-in at the general meeting, agreement to by-laws and rules, and payment of the first year's dues and key card.

Regular membership dues $55.00
Out-of-state 35.00
Over 70 years of age and 20 year member 35.00
Widow of member 20.00