The German Club of Virginia Tech became the successor to the Cadet Dancing Club formed in 1887 to provide 'the highest quality dances' for V.A.M.C. students. In 1892, the Club adopted the present name because its dances became routinely known as 'Germans' after a popular round dance originating in Germany in the mid 1800's. Many cities in the South formed German Clubs, as did numerous colleges. The Club provided four to five sets of dances each year through the 1970's. Founding members of the German Club described themselves as, 'young men bonded together in an effort to serve their college, dedicated to providing personal growth through brotherhood, and bound to uphold the ideals of the gentleman.' The German Club's stated aim was 'to provide worthwhile social life for the student body at the Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College.'
Around 1935 Mel Jeffries, class of 1927, wrote the German Club Ritual. His motivation to write the Ritual can be expressed in a letter that he gave to his son which states, 'What the German Club stands for means so much to me I decided to put it down on paper.' The ritual was adopted by the club and remains today as the foundation of the club.
In the fall of 1970, the German Club became the only dance organization on campus when the Cotillion Club became the fraternity Pi Kappa Alpha. Since that date the German Club has continued in its fine traditions by holding formal dances for the students body in the large ballroom of Squires Student Center. On October 9, 1972 the German Club of Virginia Tech voted unanimously not to join the national fraternity of Sigman Alpha Epsilon, to remain forever, THE GERMAN CLUB.
In 1981, the German Club Manor was built in order to provide a permanent home for the German Club men of tomorrow. During the '80s the appeal of formal dances to the student body decreased and it was the responsibility of the Club to begin to find other ways to service the university community.
In 1992 the German Club celebrated it's 100th anniversary. The Gordon Ballroom was added to the Manor and named after the highly esteemed club alumnus, Charles O. Gordon Sr. With this addition the club was now able to serve the university even more by providing a large banquet facility for it's use. It was also at this time that the Club's motto, 'Leadership for Service through Fellowship,' was adopted.
Today, the annual Midwinters Dance for all students is the highlight of the social year. Members take great pride in hosting a dance for the students and faculty of the University. The event features great bands and decorations which generate the spirit of warmth and fellowship. Our brotherhood is unique to Virginia Tech (no national affiliation) and is one of the most respected leadership and service organizations on campus.
The German Club has over 2,000 alumni members who continue their service and support to the Club and the University. They continue in leadership positions in their communities, states, and the nation. Many have served as members of the Board of Visitors (Tech's governing body), the Virginia Tech Alumni Association, College Advisory Councils, and the Hokie Club (supporting athletics).
