Athenaeum Artifact No.1

Gada Club and Wooden Dumbbells, circa 1894

130 years ago, Turnverein fitness experts agreed, the key to a sound mind, was a sound body. To that end, weights like these were put to use in German gymnasiums across the country.

Here at the Athenaeum, these antique gada clubs and wooden dumbbells were exceptionally popular during the fitness movement of the late Victorian era and would have been used by both men and women alike, to help build arm and grip strength, as well as flexibility.

This original set from the Athenaeum Turnverein, dating back to when the gym opened in 1894, still retains its original logo stamp from the St. Louis manufacturer Medart.

The 1lb clubs and wooden dumbbells were integral to an exercise phenomenon that made its way to the U.S. by way of German immigrants in the middle of the 19th century.

Athenaeum Artifact No.2

Rathskellar Place Setting, circa 1898

This antique place setting comes from our historic Rathskellar’s original collections, and was used to serve up classic German fare, like smoked wurst, sauerkraut, and potatoes.

Not to be confused with English pewter, Germany’s Nickel Silver is actually a durable and beautiful copper alloy that’s made to endure for generations.

This set has been custom engraved with “DH” for Deutsche Haus in 1898 and the stamped “Athenaeum” silverware set was added after the building’s name change in 1918. They were so coveted, in fact, that over the years, silverware like this went missing from time to time. Fortunately for some good judgement, many saw fit to return the stolen merchandise with the kindest notes of apology!