History
Turner Hall dates back to around 1847 when it was originally built for the First Baptist Church of Jesus Christ. The building was used by a second church before being purchased by the Turn and Gesang Verein Society. They, in turn, gave the building its current name, Turner Hall. The Turners were an association of German immigrants who were interested in athletics, play reading, and society. From 1935 on, the building was used by a variety of local businesses. Today, it has been restored by private owners and is once again being used for banquets and cultural events.
Turner Hall, located in Boonville, Missouri, boasts a rich history spanning over 177 years. Constructed in 1847, it proudly stood as the first brick Baptist Church west of the Mississippi River until the late 1890s. In 1895, the building underwent a transformation when it was acquired by the German entertainment society "Turn und Gesand Verein." They expanded and renovated the hall, repurposing it as a hub for community shows and social gatherings within the local German community.
The ensuing 65 years saw Turner Hall used for various businesses and storage purposes, sadly falling into disrepair. However, in the early 1990s, David Oswald and his wife breathed new life into the building, restoring it to its former glory.
In 2024, Turner Hall welcomed its fifth owners in its long history, James and Paul Roark-gruender, who are dedicated to preserving its legacy and ensuring its continued role as a cherished community space.
