The annual Fersommeling (gathering) of both the men and women's Grundsow Lodshs (Groundhog Lodges) were held last week. Together, more than 400 people gathered to celebrate and help
preserve the Pennsylfawnish Dietsche (Pennsylvania-
German) culture and dialect.
New members were initiated into both groups during the evening's events.
The annual gatherings are filled with Pennsylania-German style foods and music.
Another annual event, The Grundsow Lodsh fer Yunge (Groundhog Lodge for the Young) iwas held in January at the Schwenkfelder Library and Heritage Center in Pennsburg, to introduce the younger generation to the cultre and traditions.
The 16 Groundhog Lodges are located in Berks, Bucks, Carbon,
Montgomery, Lehigh and Lebonan Counties.