The Altenheim 100th Anniversary Celebration

by Gordon Laverty

The Dimond District was originally established by German Americans who settled here with their homes, their farms, and their beer gardens. The high point of this development was the construction of The Altenheim, the big white building at the top of the Excelsior Avenue hill, where folks retired in their golden years. Today, it's known as Citizens' Housing, and the building and the wonderful gardens continue on.

On Saturday, August 15, over 350 people spent the afternoon in the main hall and gardens at The Altenheim celebrating the building's 100^th year. Program speakers included the German Consul General, Peter Rothen; Program Chairman, Tony Schaller; Citizens' Housing President, Jim Buckley; and Excelsior German Center President, Michael Willis. Also in attendance were a member of the Fleishhacker family, the present Board of Directors and members of The Excelsior German Center, former directors and employees of The Altenheim, and many of the good folks associated with Excelsior German School. The program included a children's theatrical performance and many favorite German songs performed by Pacific Sangerbund, a group of 50 singers from throughout Northern California. The celebration concluded with tasty German food and dancing. Many in attendance indicated that they'll be looking forward to the 200^th Anniversary Celebration.'