Altoona developed many ethnic enclaves as immigrants arrived to work for the Pennsylvania Railroad. In the late 19th Century, Altoona grew into one of the world’s largest railroad centers, attracting workers from various countries. These immigrants formed ethnic neighborhoods and communities that established social clubs, many still active today. The Bavarian Aid Society is the largest of these clubs, with officers of Bavarian descent. You can read more about the Bavarian Aid Society’s history throughout this website.