History
The Hermann Sons was named after Arminius, later called Hermann, who united the German tribes in 9. A.D. Arminius is one of the
prominent figures in the long struggle of men for freedom and self-government and is considered the father of German independence.
The Order of Hermann Sons was founded in 1840 in New York City. The first ever Hermann-Sons Lodge in California was established in San Francisco in 1870. Petaluma Lodge #26 was established on September 15th, 1901. German-speaking individuals now have the opportunity to join a lodge where new friendships form and the "German Gemütlichkeit" prospers.
Our Story
After the first lodge was established in 1870, over 70 other lodges were built. The Hermann Sons Museum was established in 1979 in the Herman Sons Hall in Petaluma. The Museum opened on January 26th, 1980, an idea from Heinz Lehrach, to promote and preserve the history of the Lodge. The labor for the museum's construction was donated, and material costs were covered by the lodges and private donations. Members of the lodges can now visit the museum, familiarize themselves with the lodge's history, and observe the displays and German memorabilia.
Though the order declined significantly and quickly after two world wars and a lack of German immigrants, the spirit of our lodges is very much alive. We hold meetings, social events, Oktoberfests, Bustrips, Picnics, and conventions that are full of fun, connection, and "German Gemütlichkeit."
