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Fort Wayne Mannerchor - Damenchor
About Fort Wayne Mannerchor - Damenchor
The Fort Wayne Mannerchor/Damenchor represents over 150 years of German-American community tradition in Fort Wayne, IN, tracing its roots back to October 4, 1869, when German immigrants established the Fort Wayne Sangerbund. What began as a single men's chorus evolved into a vibrant cultural institution that now welcomes both men and women as full participating members. The organization's rich history includes the consolidation of eight singing societies in the early 1900s and the integration of women singers beginning in 1974, reflecting the community's evolving values while maintaining core cultural traditions. Members share a passion for preserving German heritage and fostering meaningful connections through music and cultural celebration. The organization sponsors numerous traditional German activities annually, continuing a legacy that once included monthly community dances and now encompasses a full calendar of cultural events. Park Edelweiss, the organization's home since 2001, serves as a gathering place where members and the broader Fort Wayne community can experience authentic German culture and build lasting friendships. By participating in district conferences and the triennial National Sängerfest, Fort Wayne Mannerchor/Damenchor connects local singers with a broader network of German-American cultural organizations. The choir embodies the spirit of Gemütlichkeit—the German concept of warmth, coziness, and togetherness—making it a welcoming community for anyone interested in celebrating and preserving German cultural traditions.