CENTRE FOR MB STUDIES

. : ... /: " ; \ 77 HENDERSON HWY. ·'.i: WINNIPEG, MANITOBA ...... ~~~..:

R2L iLL ~ ..:r.~~.~ ~~/_-~'.,,,'. V()lunf~;;iVIlr: Number 2 Mel)l)oJ?ite June, 1981 Historial)

Chortitza settlement. The Einlage Mennonite Brethren Church, which was started in 1860, was supported by some of the industrialists of Einlage who were members ofthis church. Johann D. Koslowsky and his brother Jakob and their families were members ofthe Men­ nonite Brethren Church in Einlage. Jakob D. Koslowsky's name is mentioned twice in the book by Heinrich Epp, Abrabam Unger ... GrUnder der Elnlager Mennoniten-Briidergemelnde, telling of the founding of the Einlage Mennonite Brethren Church. Both times it is obvious that Jakob D. Koslowsky was a strong and faithful sup­ porter of Abraham Unger, the founder ofthe Einlage Mennonite Brethren Church. Abraham Unger set up a private school for the children of Mennonite Brethren families in a house which he bought for this purpose. My great-grandfather's children and his brother Jakob's children attended this school. My grandfather, Peter J. Koslowsky (1860-1942), was born June 23, 1860 in Einlage. He received his education in This is the private school building which was donated to the Mennonite Village Museum of Einlage, in the private school set up by Manitoba, this spring. The donor is Mr. Abram P. Driedger, Gretna. The school was con­ Abraham Unger. Peter entered the teaching structed in the village ofBlumenhof near Gretna, about 1885, and has stood on its original profession and taught in the village schools location since then. Mr. Driedger auended this schoolfrom 1907 to 1915. The school will be of Alt Kronsweide, Neuhorst, Ebenfeld, moved to the museum grounds this summer and restored as fully as possible to its original con­ Schoendorf, Einlage, Peterpol, etc. dition. A large portion ofthe restoration is being made possible by a donationfrom Rev. Peter He was married on December 2, 1884 in J.B. Reimer of Rosenort, Manitoba. Photo by Ken Loewen, Altona, Manitoba. Alt Kronsweide to Katharina Krause, who was born February 28, 1863 in Alt Kronsweide, the daughter of Franz and About My Family, The Koslowskys Katharina (Martens) Krause, Peter and Katharina's marriage was blessed with nine children; s~ of which survived infancy. At By Agatha Ratzlaff the birth of their ninth child, both Katharina Part II the age of 68 years, 3 months, and 7 days. and the baby girl, Liese, died. The family of His grandson Gerhard G. Koslowsky lives in six children was then left without a mother. David D. Koslowsky (1812-1869) Rosthern, Saskatchewan, Canada. Maria D. Peter's cousin, Heinrich J. Koslowsky, who married Katharina Dyck, born July 23, Koslowsky (1833-1) married a Klaas was childless, wished to have one of Peter's 1814. After the death of his first wife, he Kroeker. She died in America. children to raise as his own. Maria, my married a second wife, a widow, Maria My great-grandfather, Jobann D. mother, was the one that Peter gave to his Thiessen (nee Hildebrandt), born May 29, Koslowsky (1827-1894), was born August cousin and his wife, Margaret. Maria was six 1825 in Burwalde, Russia. David died 20, 1827 in Einlage. He was mamed to years old at the time, and always was November I, 1869; Maria died May 19, Aganetha Tilitzky, born November 25, lonesome for her own family. At the age of 1893. 1827, the daughter of Bernhard Tilitzky. fifteen, she returned to her father's home. Anna D. Koslowsky (1822-1) married a Their marriage was blessed with five Peter J. Koslowsky's second wife was Susan­ Johann Rempel. Jakob D. Koslowsky (1831­ children: David; Peter, born June 23, 1869; na Ratzlaff, the daughter of Adam Ratzlaff. 1899) married Sara Wall, born Sept. 25, Aganetha; Johann; and Maria. Johann D. (Through her my husband and I are third 1833. Sara died June 9, 1879. Jakob married Koslowsky died January 8, 1894; and cousins.) One child was born to Peter and a second wife in the fall of 1880, Helena Aganetha died February, 1895. Susanna Koslowsky, a son, Heinrich. Peter Born, from Molotschna, who died in the Spr­ Einlage was the center of the beginning J. Koslowsky died in 1942 in Russia; and ing of 1881. Jakob died August 5, 1899, at and spread of the Mennonite Brethren of the Susanna died in 1945, also in Russia. (to be continuedj' . Page 2 Prussian Church Records

Mennonite genealogists often wonder how to get hold of microfilms of Prussian Men­ nonite records through branch libraries of the Mormon Genealogical Society of Utah. The Mennonite Historian (III no. 3, Sept. 1977) listed the Canadian addresses of the genealogical branch libraries. The following is a partial listing of the film numbers of Prussian Mennonite records in the Salt Lake collections: 548,788 (Danzig 1667-1809 Stadtgebiet mit Familienbuch von 1789) 450,469 (Danzig 1815-1943 mit Lucken) 555,796 (Tiegenhagen 1780-1944) 386,919 (Petershagen, Tiegenhagen, Ruth Epp Dennis Stoesz Werner Kliewer Ladekopp 1775-1845) 555,792 (Ladekopp 1775-1873) Summer Activities at the Heritage Centre 555,794 (Rosenort 1858-1942) 555,789-790 '(Furstenwerder 1776-1946,- Winnipeg, Man. - Special funding decades. 2 rolls) assistance for history-archives work will help Ruth Epp, a student at the University of 555,791 (Heubuden 1772-1900) to strengthen the summer program at the Manitoba, replaced Iris Toews, who ter­ 555,795 (Thiensdorf-Markushof 1782- Mennonite Heritage Centre. Several tem­ minated her work as secretary-receptionist at 1943) porary statT additions have been made to ex­ the end of April. Ruth will be at the Centre 555,793 (OrlofTerfelde 1772-1899) pedite these developments. till classes .resume in early September. The 555,785 (Elbing-Stadt 1857-1895 Dennis Stoesz, a graduate student from visits ofgroups and various individuals add a 555,786-788 (Elbing-Ellerwald 1744- the University of Manitoba, and Werner responsibility to the regular research 1940, 3 rolls) Kliewer from Mennonite Biblical Se~ary,. assistance and other heIp given by the Centre 555,797 (Tragheimerweide 1773-1943) are continuing the microfJ.1ming of con· during the summer months. 072,158 (Montau 1661-1874) gregational records begun last summer. Fif­ Archives statT members plan also to 386,917 (Montau-Gruppe 1782-1874) teen Manitoba congregations completed catalogue a good deal of "back-log" 415,102 (Montau-Gruppe 1857-1944, their projects last year, and a number have manuscript material during the next three Schc5nsee Taufen 1862-1944) since then brought in materials for filming months. An attempt is being made to com­ 450,468 (Kossowo-Przechowka- during the next few months. It is hoped that plete sets of a number of Mennonite Alexanderwohl since 1782) all Conference of Mennonites in Canada periodicals, and deposits of back numbers of 071,784 (Konigsberg 1766-1859) congregations may eventually be serviced in any related material are always welcome. 477,311 (Konigsberg 1769-1811) this way. Very early issues of Der Bote (1924-1930) 1056552-553 (Mennonitenwesen 1775- Jake Peters has given valuable help during and Mennonitlsche Rundscbau (before 1924) 1802, 2 rolls) June in cataloguing and especially in begin­ are especially appreciated. 1056557-559 (Mennonitenwesen 1802­ ning an oral history project of interviewing We also appreciate the continuing help of 1806, emigration, 3 rolls) Mennonites in Winnipeg. He has received Glenn Penner in genealogical research and A more complete report on microfIlm government grant assistance for his work. may soon have further volunteer help from sources of Prussian Mennonites in the Ger­ Evelyn Peters, a CMBC graduate, recent­ Mllry Dueck Jeffery ofWinnipeg, Manitoba. man language is available from the under­ ly completed a contract of work assisting Visitors are invited to inquire about used signed. Enclose $5.00 (American funds) with with genealogy research, and developing a or new Mennonite books for sale at the Cen­ order; and write to: bibliography of articles on Russian Men­ tre, and to write or call for other help they 12934 Buchanan Trail East nonites published during the past two may need. Waynesboro, Pa., U.S.A. 17261 Adalbert Goertz Our Donors' List Elizabetb Enns - Winnipeg, Manitoba Corrections Henry J. Sawatzky - Carstairs, Alberta The second last paragraph of the report We want to express our appreciation to Harold HDdebrandt - Calgary, Alberta on the Centre for MB Studies in Canada numerous individuals who have shown their Helen E. Regier - Newton, Kansas (MH. March 1981. p. 6) should have begun support through recent donations to the Isaac KI8S~n - Laird, Saskatchewan with this sentence: Mennonite Heritage Centre. The list covers Peter Dueck - Riverton, Manitoba A major project sponsored by the Men­ the period from April to June, 1981. Klaas Giesbrecht - Port Albernie, B.C. nonite Brethren Historical Society of H. Janzen - Winnipeg, Manitoba Mary Unrub - Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Canada has been the preparation of an Victor G. Wiebe - Saskatoon, Jacob D. Dyck - Herbert, Saskatchewan English script for the fJ1m Heimat fuer Saskatchewan P.C. Bergen - Kitchener, Ontario Heimatlose. Arnold Wiebe - Winnipeg, Manitoba EmU O. Toews - Sacramento, California The title of Henry D. Friesen's booklet Herman Rempel - Morden, Manitoba Contributions for this period total was Blumen und Blueten (cf. Mennonite Guentber Sickert - Winnipeg, Manitoba $307.00. The total to date for 1981 is Historian, March, 1981, p. 7). Apologies! Ian E. WUson - Regina, Saskatchewan $669.00.

MENNONITE HISTORIAN is published quarterly by the History-Archives Committee of the Conference of Mennonites in Canada. It is edited by Lawrence Klippenstein. All correspondence and unpublished manuscripts should be sent to the editorial office at 600 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3P OM4. Subscription fee,· $2.00 "ler year. ISSN 07oo-8uM. Page 3 experiences, and some on Mennonites in Canadian Mennonite Russia. Directory Archives Rare books are an additional significant British Columbia feature of the holdings. Several old hymn­ Mennonite Historical Society of B.C. books, and particularly. Bibles form an in­ Rosthern Junior Archives. 2825 Clearbrook Road, Clear­ College Archives teresting exhibit for regular viewing. Among brook, B.C., V2T 2Y2. Director: Hugo the Bibles is one owned by deputy Jacob Friesen. The archives of the Mennonite Historical Hoeppner who helped to lead the Russian Mennonite Educational Institute Archives. Society of Saskatchewan and Alberta are Mennonite migration from Prussia to 4081 Clearbrook Road, Box 2240, Clear­ located at Rosthern Junior College in Russia in the 1870s. brook, B.C., V2T 3X8. Archivist: Hugo Rosthern, Saskatchewan. Since 1973, when Facilities for both library and archives will Friesen. the facility was opened, the archives have need attention in the near future, being at primarily been a depository for various present inadequate for proper research or Saskatchewan!Alberta publications, records, and writings. These in­ study use. Persons interested in seeing any Rosthern Junior College Archives. clude some correspondence and minutes of materials other than those on display may Rosthern Junior College, Rosthern, provincial conference activities, extensive contact the museum office at 1-(204}326­ Saskatchewan, SOK 3RO. Archivist: Bernie coUections of Mennonite Life, The Canadian 9661. Peter Goertzen. Thiessen. Mennonite, and Der Bote, along with local, Saskatchewan Mennonite Brethren church and family histories, as weU as Conference Archives. Bethany Bible various other misceUaneous documents and Evangelical Mennonite Institute, Hepburn, Saskatchewan, SOK IZO. records. Mission Conference Archives Contact person: George C. Geddert. The Rosthern Cultural Museum, also The EMMC archives were established at located on the RJ.C. campus, contains a the Mennonite Heritage Centre in 1978 (cf. Manitoba large number of German books used by our Mennonite Historian, September 1979, p. 2). Center for Mennonite Brethren Studies in Mennonite people in the first half ofthis cen­ Some materials were deposited almost im­ Canada. 77 Henderson Highway, Winnipeg, tury. Many of these will be transferred tc- the mediately, including the early membership Manitoba, R2L ILL ArChivist/Director: archives in the near future, as the museum is registers of the Conference, personal papers Ken Reddig. being moved to a larger, more convenient of Rev. Peter S. Zacharias, congregational Conference of Mennonites in Canada location. records of the Neuhorst church in Archives. 600 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, An important project currently underway Saskatchewan, and additional copies of Der Manitoba, R3P OM4. Historian-Archivist: is the microfilming of all the back issues of Leitstem. Lawrence Klippenstein. Ocr Bote by the Saskatchewan Provincial An important recent project was the Evangelical Mennonite Conference Archives in Regina. This coUection, which microfilming of everything deposited so far Archives. Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, began in 1924, is complete hete from 1925 to so that the material could be used by a ROA. 2AO. Contact person: Dave the present. researcher who is working on EMMC Schellenberg. A Heritage Resource SurVey done a few hIstory. The microfilm is now available at the Evangelical Mennonite Mission years ago is being followed up by Norman Heritage Centre. As part ofthis collection an Conference Archives. 600 Shaftesbury Blvd., Bull through a series of oral interviews with entire set of Der Lelutem (actually two Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3P OM4. Director: long-time residents of the area. This project issues are still missing) as well as the Frank Zacharias. is being funded by the Saskatchewan Recorder were put on the film. .. Reimer Historical Library and Archives. Archives Board, but one copy ofeach of the Another interesting part of the collection Mennonite Village Museum, Box 1136, Interviews will be left with the MHSSA is a set of sermons by several EMMC Steinbach, Manitoba. ROA 2AO. Manager: archives. Bernie Thiessen and Debbie ministers, including the late Rev. Cornelius Peter. Goertzen. Schmidt. G. Stoesz of Plum Coulee. These sermons Mennonite Genealogy, Inc. 600 are on loan and will be microftlmed also. Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Hopefully others will send similar materials R3P OM4. Director: Margaret Kroeker. to be deposited or duplicated. Mennonite Historical Library. 600 The archives also holds six or seven term Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Reimer Historical papers written on the EMM conference or its R3P OM4. Librarian: Margaret Franz. Library and Archives congregations. The closing-down program of the Rosefarrn congregation was taped, with Ontario Parts of a library and archives for the copies left in the archives. Amish Historical Library. Route 4, Mennonite Village Museum became reality From time to time there will be articles on Aylmer, Ontario, N5H 2R3. Director: as early as 1967. More recently a rather EMMC archives in Mennonite Historian. David Luthy. large collection of early Manitoba textbooks, This periodical is now being mailed to Mennonite· Archives of Ontario. Conrad and related materials, found their way to the EMMC congregations across Canada; Grebel College, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L museum, and space was made to house them If you want to deposit materials please 3G6. Archivist: Sam Steiner. on the premises. contact Frank Zacharias, Gretna, Manitoba, To these materials have been added or send them directly to the Heritage Centre, several years of Steinbach Post (ca. 1915­ indicating clearly where they come from. A directory of all Mennonite archives 1916), land holding documents, some school Lawrence Klippenstein and Frank 'known to exist in the world is available records, and miscellaneOus documents. Zacharias. from the Mennonite Heritage Centre. Some of these are on regular display for visitors, while others remain in storage. The manual on writing con­ Photos are an impoEtant part ofthe MVM The materials on Canadian Men­ gregational histories, Stories with archival collection. 'fhty have been indexed, nonite archives are provided by the Meaning, written by Dr. Frank H. Epp, with some duplicated for display, and others Mennonite Historh:al Society of is still available at the Heritage Centre simply on file for research or other use. Canada. for $2.00 a copy. Many focus on early Manitoba Mennonite Page 4

over the congregation. No one instigates the ears and cut otT straight at the neck. He Russo-Ukrainian conversation. A new arrival wishes his wears his long, black rumed coat with great Mennonite Studies neighbour "Good Morning" but only in the dignity. Since there is no resident minister in softest whisper. Other than this, no word is the village, he is the leader of the congrega­ spoken. The silence is reminiscent of a tion and hence a very important person, at graveside ceremony. A hungry little bee least locally. Solemnly he takes his place, which has strayed into the sanctuary turns a few pages in the hymnal as though A Sunday on Chortitza through one of the open windows suddenly searching for an appropriate hymn, coughs a Island in 1840 1 creates a loud, humming noise. One can also . few times, and then announces hear the chirping of sparrows and the warbl­ monotonically: "Rise u~, rise up, my spirit to ing of a blackbird in the bushes outside. praise - Number 358." After a brief pause, Translated by Peter Pauls One of the men sitting near the front finds he repeats, "Number 3581" There is a brief the silence deafening and begins to cough moment of silence and then he begins to sing In 1974 Centennial celebrations aroused awkwardly. This is followed by a barely with stentorian voice. The others do not hold new interest among many Canadian Men­ audible shuffiing of feet. One of the young back either, as do so many today who are nonites in their Russian and Ukrainian women, feeling a delicate sneeze coming on, young in years but old at heart, who don't homeland. Tours to former colonies in these cautiously takes her stimy starched cloth deserve the voices their Creator gave them. regions have become quite common. bag which contains the "Marienblatt" (sprig Here, however, fifty voices join in with Numerous books and articles have been of thyme) and wafts it back and forth a few enough energy and enthusiasm to bring written, describing Russian Mennonite times under her nose releasing a veritable down the walls of Jericho or put the .villages as they once were and as they appear cloud of herbal perfume which drifts slowly Midianites to flight. The singing is full­ today. 1 over to her neighbour. Once again, there is throated and vigorous with many challeng­ The following excerpt is taken from absolute quiet - silent, pious expectation. ing high notes and low notes but these Kornelius Hildebrand's description of a Even the more active young people sit as if singers proceed without faltering to the con­ church service held in a schoolhouse on the hypnotized. If one looks closely enough one clusion. island of Chortitza almost 150 years ago. can see on the white, otherwise smooth There are a few minutes, fmally, to allow This "reminiscence" was originally publish­ foreheads of the young maids, fashionable all concerned to pause for breath. This brief ed in the Russian Mennonite Mennonitisches wrinkles of concentration and devotion. respite is followed by the hymn which Jahrbuch (1913) and reprinted in Men­ The Vorsanger now emerges from the precedes the sermon: "Dearest Jesus, we are nonitische Warte (Spring, 1937). It was then teacher's living quarters and proceeds with here! Number 86!" - "861" The Vorsanger edited by Victor Peters and republished in measured, ceremonious strides to take the need not have announced the number of this the German language in Zwei Dokumente place reserved for him next to the minister's hymn even once because every "Ohmke" (Echo Verlag, 1965). still vacant chair. The Vorsanger of this and every "Muhmke" knows where "Dearest The entire article has now been place is a man with a large, bony physique, a Jesus" is to be found. In fact, most of them translated into English by Dr. Peter true islander. He is obviously well nourished, have memorized that one from beginning to Pauls, professor ofEnglish at the University his face smoothly shaved, his handsome end. In these "good old days," many simple, of Winnipeg. head covered with shiny black hair, parted in pious souls, especially mothers, go to the the middle, combed smoothly back behind hymnal for spiritual nourishment and for this The school is situated quite close to the mighty river. Only the street, actually a The inside view ofthe church at Chortitza, on the mainland as it remained in use after roadway, and a narrow stretch of riverbank w'0rld War I. Photo courtesy ofOlga Rempel, Einer von Vielen page 51. The photo on page lie between the building and the water. For 5 IS taken from J.P. Klassen's Die Insel Chortitza page 56a. The farm home was located on the newcomer, the view of the majestic river the island. from the windows ofthe schoolhouse is most delightful; the native islander, however, takes little notice of this unusual natural prospect, particularly on a Sunday when he focuses his attention entirely on the awaited worship ser­ vice. Within half an hour, most of the in­ habitants of the island are assembled at this place. Differences ofopinion on religious matters are still unknown among these people and the neglect of public worship services is simply unthinkable, especially since a pastor can visit them only every third or fourth Sun­ day. Should someone who is in good health be absent from his usual place in the schoolroom on a Sunday, this would create such a stir that there would be an immediate inquiry and within an hour ofthe conclusion of the service the entire village would know for what reason the person in question had not been there. The schoolroom is not large. The worshippers sit closely crowded together, the men to the right and the women to the left of the improvised pulpit. A solemn quiet comes Page 5

him: "I.would like to have the congregation sing the hymn, 'Follow Me, Our SavIour calls us.' " The Vorsanger replies in an aud­ ible whisper: "I'm not sure I know the melody. Let me think about it for a minute." After a moment of reflection, he regains his former confidence, calls out the words of the first line and begins to sing with all his might. However, something isn't quite right as all the others remain silent. He tries to sing it quietly to himself ..once more, although everyone can hear him, but again it just won't work out. All continue to wait silently for 'the music master to fmd the solution to the mystery. The persistent Vorsanger does not give up. 'His voice is hesitant at first as it gropes its way up and down the scale but it grows gradually in volume as it fmds familiar notes. An old grandmother is the first to join in with trembling voice just before the Vorsanger's voice swells to its customary triumphant crescendo. All now join in lustily. If some of the verses don't quite scan, the extra syllables are simply reason are better acquainted with this book felt that on such solemn occasions one must swallowed. And so the singers roar on with than are most church members today. come into the presence of the Almighty im­ sounds that resemble "clashing swords" and However, the Vorsanger knows his duty and maculate even in one's dress. A slovenly out­ "crashing waves," until the loose window calls out "Number 86," once again at the top ward appearance, it was felt, was an indica­ panes in the old schoolhouse begin to rattle of his voice. People living as far as three tion that the inward state was in even greater and shake. Surely the Good Lord must take houses from the church could have heard disorder. delight in such praise. him, had they been at home, for the windows After a btief introduction and prayer, the The service finally concludes with the facing Jerusalem are always open during the text is announced: "Come unto me, all ye benediction and following this the worship service as Daniel's were, according that labour and are heavy laden, and I will worshippers rise from their unpainted pews, to the Bible. give you rest." The minister then reads a strengthened and comforted. The older pe0­ And so all three verses of this song are deeply moving sermon written in a straight­ ple thank their beloved minister and, when he sung. The beloved elderly minister who has forward unaffected style. There is soinething politely declines their uivitations to come for entered during the singing now stands up in in his voice, however, which speaks of per­ dinner, shake his hand and bid him farewell. front of his table, upon which there is a sonal experience and profound commitment. Then all move toward the exit with the lectern; he takes a blue envelope containing a This simplicity and humility appeal directly women, being the weaker sex, le.ding the hand-written sermon from the side pocket of to the hearts of his listeners without the aid way. The men follow in slow arid stately his coat and salutes the congregation, of rhetoric. The congregation, deeply stirred, manner. without looking at his papers, with the sits in reverent silence. Now and then a apostolic greeting: "And the peace of God, I mother wipes a tear from her cheek. After NOTES which paS"seth all understanding, shall keep all, the words spoken here emanated your hearts and minds through Christ originally from the sacred mouth of Jesus. It I. The original article was entitled "Ein Jesus." With these words the congregation was He who commanded his disciples to Sonntag von anno 1840 auf der Insel becomes as worshipful as those who long convey this blessed invitation to all mankind. Chortitza". ago sat at the feet ofJesus. All that is earthly "Come unto me ... " How these words 2. Cf. Paul and Otto Klassen "Chortitza becomes silent. strike home, for it is the language forever Revisited" Mennonite Life (December, Let us observe this minister more closely. associated with Canaan. It is the call of the 1973), pp. 119-20, and J.P. Klassen, Die He is, of course, an unpretentious man, but beckoning Father. And who is not troubled Insel Chortitza (Winnipeg, 1979). A he is conscious of the fact that he has the and burdened'? There is so much in life that major study of Chortitza-Rosenthal by respect of the congregation before which he one could regret, so much that weighs heavi­ Nick J. Kroeker will be published shortly. now stands. He is a man who is aware also ly upon the spirit. Yet, these troubles which 3. Cf. Gesangbuch in welchen eine of his outward appearance. He is obviously a we very often bring upon ourselves we can Sammlung geistrelcher Lieder be8ndllc,h. man of some means as his shiny leather lay at His feet; the burdens which He places Copies of the seventh edition Korowonsche boots testify. The trousers upon our shoulders are light by comparison. (Marienwerder, 1829), the ninth edition of this cleric are tucked neatly into this The sermon concludes with the apostolic (Elbing, 1843), and the fITst Russian Men­ brightly polished, elegant footgear. Around blessing: "The Grace of our Lord Jesus nonite edition (Odessa,' 1844) are his neck he wears a long black silk scarf, the . Christ, etc." After this blessing the church available in the Mennonite Heritage Cen­ corners of which hang down almost to his . members who have recently become engaged tre Archives. vest pockets. On each comer ofthe scarf, the are announced. The names of the couples, 4. The reference appears to be to Aeltester initials of the wearer are embroidered in red and the names of their families are made Jakob Dyck, born 1779 in Neuendorf, cotton. Ohm Jacob Dyck,· who ill his day public. Those who might have objections to Prussia, and chosen elder of the Chor­ was elder of the Chortitza Church, always the marriages are asked to voice such objec­ titzer Mennonite Church in 1812. He died replaced the customary black scarf with a tions in good time. in 1853, cr. Mennonite' Encyclopedia, white one on special festive days such as The minister takes his seat, leans over Vol. II, p. 115. baptism. Like so many of our forefathers, he toward the Vorsan~er and whispers to Page 6 MMHS News Manitoba Mennonite Historical Society Report

A near perfect attendance> of the new would be willing to participate in scripting, The board of the Manitoba Mennonite Historical and be in historical consultation for a Rus­ REINFELD CENTENNIAL Society marked its first meeting, on May 13, sian Mennonite mm being proposed by in a second year of activity. Executive com­ Dueck Productions. The Society is also will be celebrated in the mittee president Vic Doerksen reported prepared to serve on a consultative basis if Village of Reinfeld, Manitoba several items at the outset: a recommenda­ help is needed in producing the ftlm, NiJbt on tion that two'membership meetings a year be Train from Moscow, in progress under July II and 12, 1981 held from now on, agreement that some Forest Green Productions. fmancial help be given to an interviewing The Artifacts and Historical Sites Com­ Program project at the Mennonite Heritage Centre, if mittee has released a brochure to assist per­ needed, and noting that a brochure on sons who wish to become involved in the July 11, Saturday Manitoba Mennonites has been under dis­ cemetery mapping project of the Society. A 10:00 a.m. - 12 noon - Registration cussion. proposal for cenotaph construction on the 1:00 p.m. - Parade in Reinfeld A recent MMHS publication, Causes an4 legislative grounds·is being tabled for the 2:30 p.m. - Official opening at the History of tbe Emigradon ofthe Mennonites time being. school from Russia to Canada by Gerhard Wiebe, In membership solicitation and publicity 5:00 p.m. - Supper barbecue has been selling quite well so far. This book the committee reported an increase of 8:00 p.m. - Evening program was translated from its original German edi­ membership (presently 127), and numerous tion by Helen Janzen of Winnipeg. The efforts to publicize the work of the Society. Research Committee was asked to begin The committee will purchase two pages in July 12, Sunday work on a Manitoba Mennonite tourist guide Mennonite Historian during 1981. 10:00 a.m. - Community worship brochure, and report on it to the next Under reorganization of committees the service meeting of the Board. It was noted that the following will chair groups: Elizabeth Peters, 12:00 noon -Noon meal followed Mennonite Literary Society is preparing a Research and Publication; Al Reimer, Arts; by visiting related item for the Mennonite Pavilion this Herman Rempel, Artifacts and Sites; and 4:30 p.m. - Fahspa summer. Lawrence Klippenstein, Membership and 7:30 p.m. - Program for youth The Arts and Inter-Disciplinary Com­ Publicity. One or two new committees are mittee will be working on a display for the under consideration. Mennonite Pavilion, and is hoping to secure Final changes to the constitution were Some trailer camping available. artifacts from the Mennonite Village worked through for presentation to the next Museum for this project. Bill Schroeder will board meeting for approval, and the up­ be mounting some of his maps at that dis­ coming membership meeting for adoption. For further information write to: play. Adapted from minutes submitted by Ken ReinfeJd Centennial It was further agreed that the Society Reddig. Box 143 Winkler, Manitoba ROG 2XO This page is provided by the Mennonite Pavilion Again Manitoba Mennonite Historical Society. The Mennonite Literary Society will again sponsor a Mennonite Pavilion at the Univer­ sity of Winnipeg as part of Folklorarna this summer. A planning committee headed by The Mennonite Village Museum is Sun., Aug. 2: BiIl Schroeder, John Friesen and John Bergen is hard at presenting a series of sessions, Inter­ Winnipeg work organizing and coordinating the preting Mennonite Life in the Past and The Lord Dufferin visit various parts that make up the pavilion. Present. to the East Reserve Along with copious amounts of hearty Mennonite food, the Pavilion will provide These sessions will be held at the Sun., Aug. 9: Adolf Enns, Winnipeg both light and serious entertainment in the Museum church, Sundays, 2:00 p.m., Early Manitoba Men­ form of music and singing, a walk-through one mile north of Steinbach on the No. nonite School display of Mennonite history and culture, as 12 Highway. Developments in wen as a special display of Mennonite arts Manitoba and crafts. Sun., July 12: Abe Dueck, Winnipeg Sun., Aug. 16: Peter D. Zacharias, The Honorary Mayor of this year's Mennonites and Politics Gretna Pavilion will be Rudy Regehr, an executive Reinland and the West with Fellowship Books Inc. Harry Siemens Sun., July 19: Dennis Stoesz Reserve will be deputy mayor. Roy Vogt has Winnipeg prepared a pamphlet of the Mennonite pe0­ CO Service Among Rus­ Sun., Aug. 23: Leo Driedger, ple for distributiOfi'- at the Pavilion. Gary sian Mennonites Winnipeg Froese, who teaches music at Westgate, will Mennonite Urbaniza­ be in charge ofentertainment inRiddeU Hall Sun., July 26: Doreen Klassen, tion Cafeteria. Susan Froese is coordinating the Winnipeg crafts display and Margaret Lundin will Low German Songs as Sun., Aug. 30: Gerhard Ens, again be in charge of the food services. Expressions of Men­ Winnipeg Last year's Mennonite Pavilion was nonite Identity Mennonite Literature criticized in some quarters for not giving a balanced picture of Mennonite life, faith and Everyone Welcome culture. The Planning Committee has Page 7 (continued from page 6) (continued from page 8) Note: Turnstone Press was founded in promised to do better in this regard this year. of time, a central image which can be viewed 1975 to encourage the writing and reading of The entertainment will feature student choirs again and again and yet be different with poetry in Canada, and particularly the West. from Westgate, the MCI and Steinbach, as each viewing and never entirely the same for It specializes in the work of Manitoba poets, well as special choirs like the Springfield the different viewers. When the poet writes prairie poets and poets from other parts of Heights Liebhaber Cbor directed by John history, he shapes the past not only out of Canada in that order. For contacts call 1­ Albrecht and the Steinbach Treble Teens facts and documents but also out of memory 204-474-9860, or write to Turnstone Press, directed by Marge Koop. The walk-through (which always reshapes even the indisputable 51. John's College, Winnipeg, Manitoba. display will be larger and more varied than facts) and dreams. The pOet succeeds only if last year's, and the craft display will also be he is able to bring the reader or listener to Research Request improved. respond to the fact and the dream, to res­ All in all, the week of August 9-16 should pond prosaically or literally and poetically or I am interested in information pertaining be a week to remember at the Mennonite imaginatively. to my grandparents. Their names were John Pavilion. The theme of this year's In The Shunnin. Friesen gives us his best Miller and his wife, Helen Gilbrant. Folklorama is "the family", a theme made to example of the poet as historian. Both They were born in either Russia, Germany order for the Mennonite Pavilion and the "prosaic time" and "poetic time" are clearly or Poland. They were immigrants and arriv­ traditions it represents. Al Reimer. present throughout. Dr. Blanchard's factual ed here in Canada by boat. diary entries and Loewen's literal inter­ My father John Norman Miller was born pretations of the Bible counterpoint Peter's in Winnipeg on April 10, 1910. They moved News and Notes highly imaginative descriptions of God's to Herbert, Saskatchewan and both he and world and Johann's dream-like recollections his father worked for the C.P.R. My grand­ • The Winkler community of southern of childhood. These conflicting perceptions mother died in Herbert but I don't know the Manitoba, will be celebrating its 75th an­ of reality provide both dramatic tension and year. niversary this summer. Special Festivities are unity in this long poem which is made up of They also had two other children. Their planned for July 3I - August 2. A drama, a series of loosely connected individual names are Helen Miller and Dietrich Miller. I "The Cherry Hedge", written by Elizabeth statements. don't know if they are still alive or were ever Peters for this occasion, is to be presented on Ultimately, it is Johann who seems best married. the first day of the program. able to reconcile the literal and the im­ If you have information please write to: • Gus Dueck, an employee of Derksen aginativ~. The "brush" and "creek" of his Mrs. Shirley Louis Printers in Steinbach, Manitoba, has been farm are no more or no less real to him than R.R. No.7 commissioned to write a history ofthe Chor­ "an overgrown orchard near poJtava" or the Vernon, B.C. titzer Mennonite Conference of Canada. At "Iimat" river, both places he has never seen. VIT 7Z3 present most of its congregation are in For Johann, as for the poet, the past has Manitoba. become a succession of tenuously but New Periodical Coming •A Hildebrand family reunion is scheduled meaningfully connected "moments" or to take place at Gretna, Manitoba at the "images" which are conjured up by the visi- Mennonite Family History, a new quarter­ MCI grounds on luly4 - 5. A publication on ble present. . ly periodical featuring the genealogy and the history of the family, prepared by Henry Such moments, images or "slivers of fainily history of those persons with Men­ Hildebrand of Blumenort, will be available at light", as Friesen caUsthem, are what the nonite, Amish, and Brethren origins in that time. poet hopes to recreate for his readers. At one Europe, will begin publication in January • Recent Manitoba publications include two point in The Shunntn. one of the 1982. cookbooks: New' BergtbaJ: Heritqe and protagonists asks, "What do you want to MFH will also include general infor­ Cookbook (1980), compiled by Ray Hamm know about Mennonites?" The poetic mational articles on how and where to find and "Village Friends", 120 pp. pb., and The response which I cite here is a good illustra­ information. Articles to appear in the Common Sense Almanac: Mennonite Guide tion of Friesen's concept. of "moments", January 1982 issue are "Why I Like to Simple Living (1981), compiled by Sue "images" and "slivers of light." Genealogy" by genealogists from Penn­ Barkman, 184 pp. pb. They are available at: sylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Arizona, and On­ Agatha Hamm, Box 269, Altona, Manitoba ukraine tario; "Russian Mennonite Ancestry" by ROO OBO (53.00) and Derksen Printers, poland John F. Schmidt; "Mennonite Historical Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2AO ($6.95) netherlands Library and Archives, Goshen, Indiana" by respectively. belgium Nelson Springer; "Tracing Mennonites in • Rev. William Neufeld, formerly pastor of switzerland Ohio"; "Palatinate Mennonites"; and "Pit­ the North Kildonan MB Church in Win­ falls in Genealogical Research." nipeg, is the author of an upcoming history from the shed blood of Regular features to appear in every issue publication of the Mennonite Brethren Manz will include COIUrilOS titled "Our European Church of Manitoba. Eberle Heritage," "Our Amish Ancestors," "Our • The Mennonite Village Museum and Men­ from Blaurock his blue coat flapping at the Mennonite Immigrants," and "Our Brethren nonite Literary Society have together knees Cousins." In addition, "News and Notes" published a new brochure entitled "Who are from lonely Denck who believed that love will cover current genealogical research pro­ the Mennonites?" It is especially designed to would never hurt jects, upcoming genealogical events, and a introduce the Manitoba community to from Pastor Philips variety of genealogical notes and advice. visitors at the Mennonite Pavilion in Win­ from Simons running hiding behind his "Book Corner" will consist of three sections: nipeg's Folklorama program this summer. priestly collar Books for Sale, Books Wanted, and Book For copies write to Mennonite Literary from Grebel on neustadtgasse Reviews. Queries and a listing ofsubscriber's Society, 203-818 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, names, addresses, and surnames researched Manitoba R3G ON4. and we've come from rivers will also offer assistance to subscribers. • The' Morden Bergthaler Mennonite rat For additional information on this new Church is celebrating its 50th anniversary red periodical co-edited by J. Lemar and Lois July 31 - August 2. A publication on the molotschna where father used to swim Ann (Zook) Mast, write to Mennonite Fami­ history of the congregation will be dis­ rhine ly History, P.O. Box 171, Elverson, PA tributed at that time. limat that swallowed a few of us 19520. Page 8

Book Reviews iS,however, much easier to collect factual in­ over (a practice frowned on by early Men­ formation than to interpret its melining nonites). In view of this, the author attempts within the larger development'of a people. Jake Tilitzky, ed. Churches in ProOle: to treat 'Fraktur' art as an unconscious. c~llective Conference of Mennonites in British Colum­ liturgical activity more in keeping With the folk art tradition. bia, Clearbrook, B.C., 1978. 118 pp. Paper­ Michael. S. Bird. Ontario Fraktur. A The reproductions of original documents back $2.00. Pennsylvsnia-German Folk tradition in C.L. Dick, ed. The Mennonite Conference are well chosen and clearly marked for quick Early Canada, Toronto: M.F. Feheley reference, although some of them seem to he of Alberta: A History of its Churches and Publishers Limited, 1977. 144 pp., hdco., Institutions. Edmonton, Alberta: The Men­ too small to be of much use. The full color $10.00. Reviewed by Gerald Loewen Win- reproductions which'greatly enhance Bird's noni!e Conference of Alberta, 1981. 147 pp. nipeg, Manitoba. ' Hardcover. Reviewed by John Friesen, documentation and show more accurately CMBC, Winnipeg, Manitoba. the skill of the artists, are too few and far betwee~ In the past decade numerous histories Mennonites have habitually considered ..But, with the high cost of printing, the deciSion of the author/publisher may be have been written about various aspects of their own visual arts heritage unworthy of well founded. the Canadian Mennonite experience. Provin­ serious study largely because of its imprac­ Ontario Fraktur is -a well designed and cial conferen<;e histories are a new develop­ tical and somewhat frivolous nature. God ment. As such these studies ax:e unique, and spoke through his word, not his pictures. The executed book. I would highly recommend it will provide others with models both through quaint doodling based on faniiliar Bible not only for its aesthetics but more impor­ their strengths and weaknesses. verses has been seen mostly as a school exer­ tantly as a valuable resource on a rather Churches in Profile. dealing with Men­ cise our forebears were forced into by hard obscure aspect of our Mennonite heritage. nonites in B.C., is not really a history of the school masters. Conference. The book does not include a So perhaps it comes as no surprise that summary of the Conference's development. Michael Bird, of Catholic background and Poetry as History It consists of brief, largely statistical, sum­ quite familiar with the importance of art in maries of developments, such as membership religion, should be among the ftrst to By Peter Pauls growth, Sunday School developments, etc. in research and carefully document that prac­ each of the Conference congregations. The tiCe of fancy lettering with ornamentation Patrick Friesen, The Lands I am. St. historical summaries of each congregation closely connected to Mennonite religious life. John's College, Winnipeg, Manitoba: are factual but not analytical. The statistical Ontario Fraktur includes background in­ Turnstone Press, 1976, 44 p. Paperback. (Out of print) . tables of various dimensions of church life formation on the 'Fraktur' lirt form are interesting because information is provid­ biographies of many outstanding 'Fraktur: Patrick Friesen, Bluebottle. St. John's ed for each congregation in the same artists along with hundreds of illustrations, College, Winnipeg. Manitoba: Turnstone categories. This' information, however, as well as a discussion of Mennonite folk art Press, 1978. 72 p. Paperback $5.00 remains uninterpreted. . as religious art. Patrick Friesen, The Shunning. St. John's The survey of congregations' includes the Bird deftnes 'Fraktur' as a peculiar style of College, Winnipeg, Manitoba:' Turnstone congregations . which ar~ now extinct, writing or hand-lettering (calligraphy) which Press, 1980. 105 p. Paperback $7.00. although mission efforts like Fort St. John, grew out of an earlier medieval flowing ?n February 26, 1981, poet Patrick which did not develop into congregations. lettering style. Gradually a more angular, Friesen spoke on the topic, "Poetry as are not included. Conference institutions like 'fraktured' kind of script. or black letter form History" at the University of Winnipeg. This Camp Squeah and the Bethel Bible Institute closely resembling German Gothic, came to was the last in the 1980-1H series of public are not included either. be used. lectures sponsored by the Chair of Men­ The twenty-fifth anriiversary book about As a basis for his study, Bird focuses on nonite Studies. the Conference of Mennonites in Alberta is three major Pennsylvania groups; the During the course ofhis presentation, Mr. very different. It includes a brief history of Ephrata Cloister, the Mennonites and the Friesen read from all three of his volumes of the Alberta Conference, surveys of the Schwenkfelders. The practice of 'Fraktur' poetry published to date: The Lands I am history of each congregation which exists at was carried along with later emigrations, and (1976), Bluebottle (1978), and The Sbnnnlni the present, a brief section about each extinct the author goes on to compare the Penn­ (1980). Friesen stressed the point that the congregation, and rather extensive dis­ sylvania groups with three founding Men­ poet "comprehends the invisible through the cussions of Conference institutions like nonite settlements in Ontario; the Niagara visible." The poet always works with con­ camps and songfestivals. The text is liberally Peninsula, Markham township and Waterloo crete, natural images. The writing of poetry sprinkled with pictures of leaders, church County. is, therefore, a down-to-earth process. buildings and important events. It contains a Bird suggests that 'Fraktur' folk art fulfill­ When the poet wiites about the past, he few statistical tables and lists of leaders. ed a variety of functions in the community. attempts to see the invisible, according to C.L. Dick, the'editor, has produced a Skilled calligraphers, usually school masters, Friesen. Since historians possess only bits book which other Conferences may wish to copied and illuminated a variety of familiar and pieces of the past, the poet must fic­ learn from. The appearance is professional, texts to serve as copybooks for their tionalize or invent in order to retrieve some the pictures are sharp, and the historical sur­ students. Certificates, family registers, and of what has been lost. The poet's aim is to veys are well written and informative. The familiar prayers were carefully lettered and capture what Friesen calls the "true content is, however, somewhat uneven. This decorated by community 'Fraktur' artists. moment", something that is accessible or is probably due to the fact that various pe0­ Book covers and title pages were inscribed comprehensible to us today only through the ple submitted material which needed to be and embellished. indicating the author or poet's focusing upon a single sometimes in­ edited. owner of the material. Examples have been significant object, person or event. What the The study includes forthright discussion of found in Ontario dating back to the late 18th poet sees or imagines may well be more true conflicts. including the persons involved. On century. . than that which is more readily and more this point it is evident that editors will need to The short biographical sketches of widely perceived as historical fact. exercise great care in order to be honest, and noteworthy artists are very helpful but it A poem, Friesen said, can also be thought yet also respect people. raises the problem, as Bird suggests, of of as a kind of photograph, a frozen moment These two works will be of help to future where true communal art ends, and in­ conference .historians: l'hey illustrate that it dividualistic expression of the artist takes (continued on page 7)