The Liedertafel Club was formed by Springfield’s considerable German immigrant population. Park said German men liked to sing, and that bond brought it together.
However, changing times caught up with the club according to former club secretary and 40-plus-year member Dolores Park.
“As with everything else, our membership has dwindled down and we just couldn’t keep it going,” she said.
Things were dissolved as of Jan. 1. Much of the club’s photo collection and archives were donated to the Clark County Historical Society.
The club has around 30 members, 20 who sing. They meet at members’ homes to practice for their yearly district singing competition and national competition every three years, according to Singers president Diana Routzahn.
Park said the numbers are down from a peak of 75-80 members and numerous associate members in the early 1970s, which is when women were also allowed to join.
The term “liedertafel” translates to “singing around the table,” according to Park.
Their first building was in downtown Springfield, close to where the Clark County Historical Society is currently located. They later moved into the house on the Burnett Road property.
A 1969 fire resulted in the new clubhouse, which officially opened in 1971.
The club put on three big events each yea: a summer festival in July, a German Day festival on Labor Day weekend and an Oktoberfest a few weeks later.
Competition from other festivals, fewer new members and lack of help necessitated the property to be sold.
“There are just so many other things people can do these days,” said Park.
Routzahn said she was unable to disclose how funds from any sale of the property may be used, adding the singers may have fund-raisers in the future.
Those left, ranging in ages from their 50s up to 85, will carry the spirit on in song.
“We’ll keep it going as long as we possibly can,” said Park. “One of these days somebody will ask whatever happened to the Liedertafel Club.”
About the Author