The Historic German House has served the Rochester community for eight decades. Today we offer a fresh new face, landscaping, an innovative catering facility, and a sparkling, refurbished auditorium to greet today's visitor, kindling a spirit of regained youth.

Spirit and energy have been hallmarks of the German House since the first bricks were laid in 1905. It was built as a Parish Hall, for St. Boniface Church, the German House was used as a meeting place and clubhouse, echoing with music and song from frequent plays, festivals and religious pageants. It was a period of growth and prosperity for Rochester's German community. The old St. Boniface Church, with its 195 foot Gothic tower housing a 5 ton set of bells, was a proud and beautiful testament to the vitality of the residents and neighbors.

It was 1924 when the German House was purchased from St. Boniface by the Federation of German Societies. The Swiss Society, Teutonia Liedertafel, and numerous others shared the German House as a private club. The public was invited to the party in 1968 when Ludwig Gsellmeier launched a restaurant featuring German specialties, beer and nightly songfests.

The Landmark Society of Western New York has classified the German House as highly significant for historical impact, and of great importance to the neighborhood. "This is an architect's building...richly decorated...in the best sense of eclectism," the report states. The German House shows a creative mix of brackets, drop pendants, pilasters and bands with cut stones. "Much like Viennese pastry...with lots of 'frosting' in its rich decoration."

The Historic German House, with a venerable structure playing a new role in the South Wedge neighborhood and Rochester Community. The Auditorium has become a showplace for the arts, for neighborhood groups, receptions, graduation, grand and small events. The building welcomes customers from near and far with an innovative bill of fare and exceptional value.

Come visit the Historic German House, where the past is taking an exciting step into the future.