Since its founding in 1900 and incorporation in 1904, German American Associations in Maryland has been the voice and representative of the German ethnic community throughout the state. Based in Timonium, MD, this organization brings together Americans of German descent, German-born residents, and those with genuine interest in German heritage and culture. The Bürgerverein serves as a bridge between approximately 43 million Americans who trace their ancestry to Germany and their living cultural traditions. At its core, the organization embodies the spirit of gemütlichkeit—a distinctly German concept of warmth, coziness, and conviviality—by creating welcoming spaces for community members to celebrate their shared heritage. The association's seven member organizations, including the Arion Gesangverein, Baltimore Kickers, German American Cultural Center of Maryland, and others, unite under one mission: preserving German customs, traditions, and language for current and future generations. Beyond formal coordination, German American Associations in Maryland creates meaningful opportunities for cultural celebration through signature events like Oktoberfest and Fasching, alongside the renowned Maryland German Festival. The organization established the Frank J. Plogman German Community Scholarship fund to support students majoring in German language at UMBC, demonstrating commitment to educational advancement. Through regular gatherings, language conversation groups, and community events held throughout the Timonium area and beyond, the association fosters lasting relationships among members while welcoming newcomers interested in exploring their German heritage. This multi-generational organization remains dedicated to maintaining connections with Germany and the broader German-American community while strengthening bonds within Maryland's German cultural landscape.
Timonium, MD