Deutscher Verein New York was founded in 1842 – at the time as a Men's Social Club and second in New York only to the Union Club.

The objective of Deutscher Verein was then, and still is today, to foster the cultural heritage of and the ties to the German speaking world, and to provide a platform for the intellectual, cultural and social life of Germans as well as Americans of German ancestry living in the area of New York City.

The home of Deutscher Verein is the Union Club, and a majority of functions and events take place in the elegant atmosphere of the  premises of this Club, the oldest in New York.

The membership list of Deutscher Verein includes distinguished representatives of the German and German-American communities of New York in the fields of business, science, media, culture and diplomacy, as well as the medical, legal and accounting professions.

Over the course of the years, Deutscher Verein has gained an excellent reputation and won acclaim in New York City for its outstanding events. Members meet generally once a month, and the Board is committed to a high level of quality of all club activities, taking into account the contemporary social environment.

Besides cultural and social functions such as music, theater, dinner dance and its renowned Christmas Celebration, Deutscher Verein invites prominent representatives from business, politics, science and culture to speak at its Dinners in an effort to bring an inspiring and lively club life to its Members. Regular guest speakers include German politicians, Ambassadors and Consuls.