History OF
Plattduetsche Park
Our Humble Beginnings
Plattduetsche Park traces its roots to 1883, when the Plattduetsche Vereen of Brooklyn was founded by immigrants from the flatlands of northern Germany—where the word Plattduetsche originates. The society was created to support members of the local immigrant community while preserving the culture and traditions of their homeland.
If a member became injured, sick, or unable to work, the society stepped in to help—providing food, care for their families, and even a daily stipend during times of hardship.
The Plattduetsche Volksfest Vereen of Brooklyn also served as a gathering place where early German immigrants could connect, share stories, and pass down their heritage to future generations. Their motto, “Eendracht makt Macht”—“In Unity is Strength”—was symbolized by the beehive, a reminder that while a single bee may be small, together they can achieve remarkable things.
The Plattduetsche Volksfest Vereen (PVV) is founded in Brooklyn, NY as a society dedicated to supporting German immigrant families through fellowship, assistance, and the preservation of cultural traditions.
The PVV raises enough funds to build a hospital where members could receive free surgery and medical care. The German Hospital Corporation later became independent and continues today as Wyckoff Heights Medical Center.
The PVV purchases 10 acres of land from a German farmer in Franklin Square, Long Island, with plans to build the Plattduetsche Altenheim, a retirement home for members of the community. An additional four acres are acquired to relocate the PVV club from Brooklyn to Long Island.
The first festival is held on the new property. At the time, the grounds consisted only of an old farmhouse and stable with no trees in sight. Under the direction of Honorary President R. Schuhmacher, a dance hall is built and trees and shrubs are planted to create shaded gathering spaces.
The Plattduetsche Altenheim is completed with 50 rooms for its first residents.
The cornerstone of the main building is laid. Once construction is complete, the restaurant opens to serve authentic German cuisine to Long Islanders. German clubs—including the Brooklyn Schuetzen Corps—continue to gather at Plattduetsche.
Following World War II, a new wave of German immigrants arrives in the region. The Plattduetsche becomes a lively social hub where dances bring young men and women together—many forming lifelong friendships and even meeting their future spouses in the Biergarten.
The original dance hall is destroyed by fire and then rebuilt.
A new hall is built and named Jägerhalle. Over time it serves many purposes—from a bowling hall to a dance and event space for singing, celebrations, and the annual Christmas fair. During this time, the Travel Committee also organizes charter flights to Germany, allowing families in the German clubs to reconnect with their homeland.
The Plattduetsche’s own dance group, the Tanzgruppe, performs at the World’s Fair in Queens at the Hall of Science. Over the years the group also performs at local festivals, shopping centers, and the annual Steuben Parade in New York City, celebrating German heritage throughout the region. Dance traditions continue today with groups such as the Original Gemütlichen Enzianer.
An expansion of the Plattduetsche Home is completed and dedicated.
The Long Island Steuben Parade, featuring more than 500 participants, is held in Franklin Square and followed by celebrations at the Plattduetsche Biergarten.
The Brooklyn Schuetzen upgrades its facilities in Jägerhalle, while festivals, cultural celebrations, and catering events continue to grow at Plattduetsche Park.
A Beautification Committee is formed to improve the buildings and grounds.
The New Generation German American Club is established to help pass German culture, heritage, and traditions to younger generations. The Brooklyn Schuetzen also adds a Schützenstube, a gathering space featuring a Stammtisch—a traditional regulars’ table for meetings and socializing.
Under new General Manager Matthew Buck, major renovations begin across the property. Catering rooms are upgraded and the former Jägerhalle in the Biergarten is completely rebuilt.
A new traditional Beer Hall opens in its place, featuring soaring wooden beams, copper-topped bars, and a climate-controlled capacity of over 700 guests.
The Grand Ballroom is fully renovated, blending modern elegance with the rich history of Plattduetsche Park.
COVID-19 Pandemic – In 2020, restaurants saw some of the most difficult economic times in recent memory. Due to a state order, we had to shut down the Biergarten, restaurant and catering facilities for a good portion of the year. When we were finally allowed to reopen, it meant adhering to strict public health protocols to keep the spread of COVID-19 to a minimum. We are proud to say that through innovative ideas like prepackaged meals you finished at home, an online concert and dividing the Biergarten into reserved squares, we were able to successfully “Platten the Curve” and weather this difficult time. This was due in large part thanks to our loyal customers supporting us and the efforts of our amazing staff.
Pavilion – In 2023, the Pavilion was constructed next to the Brathaus area as another option for catered events and covered seating. Featuring a fireplace, large-screen TVs and protection from the weather, it has become a popular spot in the Biergarten. Just in front of the Pavilion are seasonal firepits with seating – a fun option for a crowd or when it gets a bit chilly.
The Hive – At the very end of 2024, we temporarily closed our main building restaurant and bar for a dramatic renovation. Working carefully to preserve German culture and tradition, we took the space down to the studs. Unexpected surprises like exposed brick were worked into the new design that features stained glass, wood, traditional Stammtische (regulars’ tables) and a bar that incorporates pieces of the original wooden bar. The space is a celebration of our heritage and clubs, including memorabilia and logos. The Beer Club was also revamped with new lockers and member perks. Adding steaks, chops and fish entrees to our menu of German specialties and updating the wine list completed the changes.
Plattduetsche Park has been Long Island and the surrounding area’s top destination for traditional German specialties and continental cuisine since 1939.
Current Hours
The Hive at the Plattduetsche
Monday & Tuesday: Closed
Wed-Fri: 3:00 – 9:00 pm
Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 pm
Sunday: 12:00 – 8:00 pm
Beer Hall & Biergarten
Friday: 5:00 – 11:00 pm
Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 pm
Sunday: 12:00 – 8:00 pm
