The Athenaeum (Das Deutche Haus), 1893
401 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, IN
Architect/Designer: Vonnegut & Bohn
Renovation/Restoration Architect: Schmidt Associates, Inc.
DESCRIPTION:
The Athenaeum is divided into the east wing and the west wing. The main entry, part of the east wing, is surrounded by heavy stone work and the first floor of the east wing has horizontal layers of brick and stone. The remainder of the east wing features strong stone work and unique German Romanesque details such as stone pillars, stone window surrounds and steeply pitched slate roof. The west wing of the building features less stone work and larger arched windows along with two towers and rough cut stone along the base.
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT – INCLUDING SPECIAL STATUS AND AWARDS WON:
Established as a Germanic Clubhouse the Athenaeum was originally called Das Deutsche Haus (The German House). The name was changed to the Athenaeum due to anti-German sentiment during World War I. Over the years the Athenaeum has housed many important Indianapolis institutions including the Normal College of the North American Gymnastic Union which went on to become part of IUPUI (Indiana University Purdue University of Indianapolis) as well as The American Cabaret Theater and the YMCA. One of the oldest institutions in Indianapolis, the Athenaeum is also home to the Rathskeller, Indianapolis’ oldest extant restaurant.
DESIGNATION STATUS:
National Register of Historic Places, 1973
Massachusetts Avenue Historic District, 1982
Lockerbie Square Historic District, 1973
Style: German Romanesque
Owner (past/present):
Past: Sozialer Turnverein Aktiengesellschaft (Social Gymnastics Association)
Present: Athenaeum Foundation
Materials: Brick, Stone
Additions and/or changes with date: 2012: Restoration of east wing
Historic use/current use:
Historic use: Clubhouse
Current use: Restaurant, event space, YMCA & non-profit office space
Is building open to the public?:
Yes, group tours are available
Condition: Excellent
Website and/or sources of information:
Website: http://www.athenaeumfoundation.org/
Research Sources:
The Athenaeum Foundation. “History.” Accessed September 24, 2015.http://www.athenaeumfoundation.org/about-the-a/history/
