Bohemian Citizens' Benevolent Society facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Bohemian Hall and Park
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Bohemian Hall, January 2009
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 Location in New York City
Location in New York
Location in the United States
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| Location | 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria, Queens, New York, U.S. 11105 |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1910 |
| Architect | Chmelik, Frank |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 01000239 |
| Added to NRHP | March 23, 2001 |
The Bohemian Citizens' Benevolent Society is a special group founded in 1892. It was created in Astoria, Queens, New York. Its main goal was to help Czech and Slovak people who had moved to the area. It also supported people with Czech and Slovak family backgrounds.
This group is often called "Bohemian Hall." This is because it is located in a historic building. This building is so important that it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). This means it is a place with special historical value.
What the Society Does
The people who started the Bohemian Citizens' Benevolent Society had clear goals. They wanted to help and support Czech schools. They also wanted to encourage plays and libraries for Czech children. This included kids with Czech family roots.
The society aimed to create a friendly place for Czech people. It was a spot where Czech culture could be shared. This culture could also mix with American traditions. The founders believed this would help people become even better Americans. The organization has about 14 staff members. Its current president is Alan Svoboda.
Bohemian Hall and Garden
The Bohemian Hall has a large indoor and outdoor area. It can welcome up to 800 people. This space is open all year round. You can find delicious Czech foods served here.
A special linden tree grows in the garden. This tree was planted by Václav Havel. He was a very important leader from the Czech Republic. Inside the Hall, you can see old signs and flags. These items celebrate the Czech Republic's history. The Hall also hosts many fun events. These include holiday parties and cultural festivals. Local jazz groups and Czech rock bands often perform here.
The Bohemian Hall hosts the yearly Czech and Slovak festival. It is a big celebration of both cultures. The Hall also has a Sokol club. Sokol is a fitness and cultural organization. There is also a Czech school. The Bohemian Hall helps keep the history and culture alive. It connects people to their past.
A Time of Challenge
In the early 1990s, the Hall faced a tough time. It did not have enough money and was at risk of closing. A large group of people came together to help. Not all of them were Czech. They started a "Save the Hall" meeting.
Václav Havel, the former president of Czechoslovakia, heard about this. He was very impressed by how people worked together. When he visited in 2000, he stayed for many hours. He even held a special meeting there. His visit showed how important the Hall was to many people.
