Journal of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia

Vol.12, No. 3 Fall 1989 TABLE OF CONTENTS

DEDICATION ...... …………………………………..………………...... 1

PHOTO ALBUM ...... ……………………………………………………...... 2

MEMORIAL SERVICES ...... …………………………...... ……………………...... 20

WE HONOR IN MEMORIAM ...... ……………………………………………...... 21

PERPENDICULARISM — THE KEYNOTE ADDRESS ...... ………………………………...... 22 International President Larry W. Metzler

THE CURRENT EMIGRATION OF GERMANS FROM THE U.S.S.R...... ………………………...... 24 Alexander Schwindt

SIXTEENTH ANNUAL APPRECIATION LUNCHEON ...... ………………………………...... 27

SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION ...... ……………………………...... 29

SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ACTIVITY ...... …………………………………...... 30

MAJOR RECEIPTS ...... ……………………… ………………………...... 30

FOLKLORE SYMPOSIUM ...... ……………………………………………...... 31

MENNONITE PLAUTDIETSCH FOLKLORE OF WESTERN CANADA

AND THE AMERICAN MIDWEST…………………………………………………………………... 33 Victor Carl Friese

LAUGHTER: A GOOD MEDICINE ...... …………………………………………...... 38 Lawrence Weigel

EDITING A VILLAGE RESEARCH NEWSLETTER ...... ………………………………...... 45 William L. Scheirman

VISITING UMSIEDLER IN WEST GERMANY ...... ……………………………………...... 50 Tina Block Ediger

RUSSIAN GERMANS BETWEEN THE BLACK SWASTIKA AND THE RED STAR ...... ………………………………………...... 54 Arthur Janke

RESEARCHING MY ANCESTORS FROM RASTADT, SOUTH RUSSIA ...... :..,,……………………….,..... 60 Paul J. Polansky Schneller (Continued on inside back cover)

Published by American Historical Society of Germans from Russia 631 D Street • Lincoln, Nebraska 68502-1199 • Phone 402-474-3363

Edited by Richard R. Rye

Copyright 1989 by the American Historical Society of Germans From Russia. All rights reserved. DEDICATION

This 1989 Convention Journal is dedicated to Miss Ruth M. Amen, Executive Director, who has selflessly given more than 20 years service to AHSGR. We offer her our heartfelt thanks and congratulations upon her retirement.

Henry and Mary Alt of Covina, California presented this doll to Ruth Amen. The doll carried many items reminiscent of Ruth's life.

Ruth Amen received a beautiful gold watch on a Ruth holds high a crystal rose bowl, a gift from the chain in recognition of her 21 years of service, 11 Lincoln chapter. She also received a dozen red roses years as Executive Director. and a plaque commemorating her service.

Eric Eisenman of Omaha brought in the American flag and Mr. Jacob Amendt of North Battleford, Saskatchewan brought in the Canadian flag.

The Honorable William Nichol, Lieutenant Governor of Councilman Ted Hempel welcomed the group to Nebraska, extended greetings .2 Lincoln The Honorable Bill Harris, Mayor of Lincoln, extends greetings to the convention.

Ruth K. Stoll, Foundation secretary, read the minutes.

3 Mary Froscheiser, Lincoln Chapter president and co- chair, extended the welcome to this 20th convention.

We Honor in Memoriam Ed Schwartzkopf This morning we recognize our members, who during the past year have departed their home on earth to be received in their eternal resting place. Would you please stand; hold hands if you wish. Oh God, we rejoice in the lives you have shared with us. We never cease to marvel how so many have benefited so much from the effort of so few. Comfort us with the knowledge that they are at peace in your eternal home. Assure the family of Mrs. Alvana Sturdevant who passed from this life while attending the convention on Tuesday evening that she now is safely in your eternal care. When it comes our time to depart our home on this earth, may we hear your soft sweet words— "Well done, good and faithful servant". Finally, oh God, save this moment from being merely a gesture to custom and habit and make it a real experience in remembering the sacrifices made for us.

Amen

4 This Twentieth International Convention was special. It brought 932 members to Lincoln, Nebraska to see their International Headquarters and the Heritage Center. After several days of research, meetings of chapter presidents, board business sessions and tours, everyone looked forward to the formal opening. Singing familiar German hymns was such a pleasure. It was also the time we pause to remember those who are no longer with us. Our president's keynote address directs our thinking toward the year ahead.

President Larry Metzler (center) of Fresno, California, called the meeting to order. Others at the head table (from left) are: Ted Hempel, Mary Froscheiser, William Nichol, Ruth M. Amen, Ed Schwartzkopf and Dr. Otis E. Young of First-Plymouth Church, who gave the invocation.

Katherine Pabst accompanied the singing at all our sessions. Her German Singers group also performed in the Atrium on Tuesday evening.

5

Ruth Freehling, Forklore Chairman, planned an Ruth and Carl Michel of Lenwood, Kansas, have excellent session. never missed a convention.

Jud Gabelhaus checked in those who attended the auction.

6 The Bookstore was full of shoppers.

Total sales came to $7,556.85. Genealogy Workshop

Lillian Weber, in charge of the workshop, arranged for helpers to answer questions.

7 THE FELLOWSHIP BREAKFAST

A large group received their life membership certificates.

Cleora Flegel received the charter for our new Rebecca Rose Mallenby of Omaha, Nebraska was chapter, Central Coast at Monterey, California. enrolled as a new life member, a gift from Ruth Amen 8

THE AUCTION AND BAZAAR ARE FUND RAISERS FOR THE FOUNDATION

Al Reiber of Scottsbluff, Nebraska is our faithful auctioneer.

The quilt at left brought in more than $2,000.00 for the Beratz Fund.

9 SPECIAL PROGRAMS WERE PLANNED FOR YOUTH

Some of our youth on the Capitol steps.

Ralph Ruff of Vacaville, California, was in charge of the program for youth. Their activities included a visit to the Children's Petting Zoo, a Get Acquainted Night in President Metzler's suite, trips to museums, a roller skating party and a session with Ed Schwartzkopf on games their parents and grandparents played.

10 THROUGH THE YEARS with GERMANS FROM RUSSIA

First-Plymouth Congregational, United Church of Christ, was filled to capacity two nights for the pageant, "Through the Years with Germans from Russia". The choir and cast were members of the Lincoln Chapter. The pageant, by popular request, was updated and presented for the third time.

The final scene shows the immigrants and all the characters named in the story as told by the narrators, Dorothy Schwartzkopf and Ralph L. Giebelhaus. The audience Joined the choir in singing, "Nun Danket Alle Gott", by John Hotchkiss of Kent, England, who was commissioned to compose this special arrangement for the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia.

11 The script and tableaux depicted the emigration of Germans to Russia and their move to the new world 100 years later. The history of the organization and development of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia were recounted.

Catherine the Great, played by Irene Gabelhouse, issued her Manifesto in 1763, inviting Germans to settle in the Volga region of Russia. An immigrant family: Mollie Grenemeir, Amy, Kelly and Nancy Bouwen.

12 The pageant was one of the events of the convention that was free and open to the public.

Duane Andersen, bass-baritone, was soloist.

Kathleen Svoboda, Sally Hieb and Diena Schmidt sang The brass choir, tympani and organ accompanied the the beautiful Mennonite emigration song, "Jetzt is die Zeit singing by the choir and the audience. John Levick and stunde da. directed the pageant. The organist was Stephen Krahn.

.

13 An afternoon at the Heritage Center.

Many visitors read the plaques near the entrance.

Ruth Amen greeted visitors.

14

Bud Dietrich answered questions in the country store Hugh Dobler greeted visitors in the All-Faiths. Chapel.

Paul Newcombe was a railroader who so enjoyed the caboose.

The main floor of the museum at 601 "D" was set up as "Christmas Time at the Amens." Sally Hieb played carols on the reed organ through the afternoon.

15

AHSGR Board of Directors Foundation Board of Trustees

Dr. Solomon R. Schneider, Dr. Larry W. Metzler, President of the President in AHSGR. International Foundation.

16

THE FRIDAY LUNCHEON

Tina Block Ediger was introduced by Harley Stucky who also gave the invocation.

Sally Hieb at left presided. Center is Anny Zimmerman who added humor. Adam Nadel of Detroit, who was named the "German- American " of the year, spoke briefly.

17 THE FINAL BANQUET 715 attended the final banquet. It was a special occasion when Elizabeth K. Wilson was introduced as the new Executive Director and Ruth M. Amen became Executive Director Emeritus.

Lydia Jesse, Northern Illinois Chapter, third from right, gave the invocation.

Harry Hoffman, at far left, was convention co-chair- man.

Executive Director Emeritus Ruth M. Amen is shown with new AHSGR Executive Director Elizabeth K. Wilson.

18 AS IS OUR CUSTOM, IT WAS POLKA TIME AFTER THE SATUDAY BANQUET. THE POLKA PLAYBOYS OF SCOTTSBLUFF, NEBRASKA FURNISHED THE MUSIC.

19 Memorial Services Presented by Ed Schwartzkopf

Our international conventions are designed for us to gather with friends as we search for greater understanding and meaning in the lives of our courageous ancestors. Never have so many owed so much to so few who twice departed their homeland and made it possible for us to enjoy the benefits our ancestors never experienced. I am reminded of the interview Merv Griffin had with Ethel Merman. He asked her feelings about Mary Martin's performance in "Peter Pan." Ethel didn't hesitate to reply, "She's got class!!" Our ancestors displayed tremendous class in enduring and overcoming so many hardships. Their accomplishments under extreme handicaps border on the unbelievable fantasy. There is an old Chinese proverb: "When you are thirsty and take a drink of cool refreshing water, do not forget those who dug the well. When you seek comfort in the shade of a tree on a hot day, do not forget those who planted the tree." This morning we are fortunate to have Mr, Ted Hemple, member of our City Council welcome us to Lincoln, Nebraska. Welcoming us to the state of Nebraska is Mr. William "Bill" Nichol, Lt. Governor. They are German Russians. It is not unique to find German Russians in leadership positions. It is evident throughout the world. We are extremely grateful to those people who dug the wells and planted the trees. We are the benefactors. I would like to share the scripture with you as it appears in Ecclesiastes, Chapter 3, verses 1-9: For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. I have seen the business that God has given to us,... God has made everything beautiful in its time. God has put eternity into our minds ... so we know that there is nothing better for us than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we live.

20 WE HONOR IN MEMORIAM Audrey Amen Othelia Knutson Reinhold D. Amen Henry Krug Michael Ardisonne Gustav 0. Marzolf Bill Arnold Molly Maser Herman Baker Dorothy N. Mauler Paul Bender Vernon May Katherine Ehly Bentz Anna M. Metzler Violet Bruntz Kenneth Millar George Clarke Elizabeth Miller Andrew Damson Mrs. Mary Miller Lena Deer Horace Mills Agnes Ruling Detmer Mollie Mohl Katherine M. Dietz Elizabeth Erdman Mufch Joseph Dorzweiler Earl Roy Peck Mr. and Mrs. George Henry Herman Price Elsasser Glen A. Purvis Arthur Felker, Sr. Mrs. Angie Richer Gladys Finch Jennifer Kaye Schaneman Manuel Gablehouse Martin Schmidt Jacob Giesick Marie Schuster Katharine Greenemeier Mr. and Mrs. Friedrich Oscar Griess Schwartzkopf Peter Mrs. Esther Hamburger Seller Sadie Harms Monica Seitz Art Heckenliable Albert Steinhoff Marie Herrmann Joe Stremel Peter Hohnstein Mr. and Mrs. George Steinert Lydia Paul Inman Heinze Votruba Lena Kahm Alex Wasemiller Mollie Kaiser Elsie Whittington Jim Kinderknecht John Wise, Jr. Peter and Emma (Basgall) Kisner

21 PERPENDICULARISM The Keynote Address Larry W. Metzler, International President

Distinguished guests, fellow Board Members, and ladies of accomplishment. This creates our own perpendicularism. and gentlemen who comprise this great organization of the But at the other end of this spectrum of pride and unity is American Historical Society of Germans from Russia. May another form of perpendicularism. It is a disease that I once again welcome you to this twentieth annual hinders, destroys relationships and divides organizations. It convention in Lincoln, Nebraska. How fitting it is that we has been with us for ages, it is familiar to all of us, but it is return in this anniversary year to the home of our unnamed. I'd like to call it "perpendicularitis," because it is International Headquarters and to the area of the country to derived from the perpendicular letter of our alphabet, the which so many of our ancestors emigrated. For it is here in letter "I." A symptom of the disease is the preoccupation the midwest that many of our people stood tall as the grain, with ones self. It is where the "I" becomes more important bending and swaying to the changes of time, but always than the strength of the whole. In large groups with many standing upright and proud on this new soil called America. differing ideas and views, if the "I"'s don't get their way, it It was here in Lincoln that my grandmother spent her first is they who say, "Well, they won't get my support," or few months before moving to Presno. And it was she who 'They won't be able to depend on me," or "They'll see how gave me the legacy that I carry with me today. She often valuable I am." reminded me that our people didn't have any reason to be So there comes a division. The one group of' I's" and the ashamed of who they were or what they did. And because other group of "I's" each want to do their own thing and as a of their courage, determination, and earthly labors, I would result, don't work toward the common goal. It is this never be ashamed, either. How true that came to be, preoccupation with ones self that creates an exclusion for because today, despite the fact that I did not endure their the concerns of others. trials and tribulations, but because of them, I, too, stand like One can easily recognize the symptoms of per- the wheat of the Great Plains: perpendicular and upright, pendicularitis as it destroys unity and becomes an but now living in a modem world. Although two instrument of division. The first symptom is strife. It is the generations have passed, I am still proud and not ashamed, competition of getting one's own way for one's own benefit. just as my grandmother said I would be, to say, "Ich bin ein Another way of saying it is, "It is my way in my time." It is Deutsche auss Russland." when we won't support because we didn't get our way. This Yes, I stand today in this perpendicular, or upright, choice is done out of strife. And when we separate position, as one meaning defines it, because of a proud ourselves, we become an instrument of disunity rather than heritage that is not only behind me, but that I carry with me. a factor for oneness. Even Biblical teaching tells us that But I do not stand alone. You and I stand together because nothing should be done through strife, and that we should of our continuity and our unity, A stalk of grain does not be of one accord and of one mind. stand upright alone for very long when faced with the ele- The second symptom is vainglory or conceit. This is an ments. But in a field of unity, the stalks sway and bend excessive appreciation of one's own worth. It says, "I together with the changes of time and yet maintain their believe I am better or more valuable than you." This perpendicularism. The unity of this organization is no attitude divides us into classes or groups. Of course, we are different. We, too, must stand together in the field of always in the right groups and those who agree with us are AHSGR and bend and sway to the elements of time and part of that group. Those who are not are definitely wrong. change until the field is gold and heavy-laden with the Therefore conceit divides. An organization cannot give fruits of our efforts, This is our ultimate goal. For then we authority to one person or one group to make all the can truly stand upright with the attitude of pride and the decisions. And the right judgement does not always reside joys in one individual or group.

22 Strength comes from combined wisdom and from Chapter 2, verse 3-5. You may want to look it up because it differing ideas and attitudes looking at the same thing from is found in the Book that our forefathers carried to this land, different perspectives. The result should be a wise decision. and it is that in which they placed their trust and direction. Each person making a contribution helps to set the prudent Perhaps we need to be reminded to do likewise. course of action. Wisdom is bringing a combined under- Even though sometimes disease enters in, we cannot standing together to make decisions. Then, when the course forget the good health we are in, also. During the past 21 has been set, we should recognize that the majority has years we have grown healthier day by day. Our archives spoken after considering all sides — even yours and mine. and our genealogical and historical information continue to Nothing should be done through vainglory. Others have grow, making our Center probably the largest of its kind in their ideas too, and perhaps they are right. But when the the world. course of action has been chosen, we should band together But there is still much more to be done, and only those to see that the common cause succeeds. But we'll never of us now can do it. Future generations will not be able to know if it will succeed until we have put effort toward it. contribute the information that exists today. While we're Selfishness is our third symptom. It is when we look out sometimes quibbling over insignificant matters, both at the for our own personal interests and not the interests of local and international levels, a wealth of historical and others. You have probably heard the expression that some genealogical information is disappearing before us. All you people are like eggs. They are so filled with themselves that need to do is look at the minutes of your meetings and see there is no room for anyone else. It might also be called the how much time, effort, and money is devoted to genealogy "me" syndrome. Will it make ME happy? Will it make and historical research. things easier for ME? Will it benefit ME? With such My friends, we have a task to do. Do we want to do it or thinking, the needs and desires of others are unnoticed and don't we? Just as my grandmother said that I would stand therefore unattended. proud of my heritage because of what my ancestors did, I Three symptoms. Strife: that competitive reaction as a would like my grandchildren to stand proud for what we've result of not getting one's own way. Conceit: rejection of done. But unless we do it now, that will never happen, and those who differ from us. And selfishness: so wrapped up in the legacy of our heritage will be lost to the generations of our own thinking that we don't see the needs of others. time. Perpendicularism to the world is a virtue. But when I pray for you and I pray for me and I pray for this entire perpendicularitis affects us at the other end of the spectrum, organization that we will be awakened to a new spirit of it becomes a disease within a family, within a friendship or direction and purpose. I pray that we will direct our efforts an organization that destroys. to those things which will continue to preserve our heritage, Is there a cure? I don't know for sure. But I think the so that all of us and the generations to come can stand tall, closest answer I could find is found in Philippians, upright, and perpendicular. I thank you.

Lorry W. Metzler, at right pictured with Ralph L. Giebelhaus, Foundation president.

23 THE CURRENT EMIGRATION OF GERMANS FROM THE U.S.S.R. by Alexander Schwindt translated by Jo Ann Kuhr

Mr. Schwindt was born in Morgentau, Volga Region, Russia, and later lived and worked in Wiesenmueller. His wife Lydia, nee Hoelzer, was born in Brunnental, Volga Region, and later lived in Lindenau. They were married just a week before the Volga Germans were deported to Siberia. Rather than go to Siberia together, they went with their individual families, in order to help their mothers with the younger children. Alexander and Lydia were reunited in 1946 and were then able to work in the same labor camp. They were released from the labor camp in 1956, and Alexander, educated as a teacher, found employment as a truck driver. After many trials and tribulations, they were finally allowed to emigrate from the Soviet Union in 1975. Since then they have been living in the Federal Republic of Germany (BDR). In 1986 they attended the AHSGR convention in Oklahoma City, where Mr. Schwindt spoke about the deportation of the Volga Germans and their experiences during World War II. The text of that speech is found in the fall 1986 Journal, Vol. 9, No. 3. For further information about this family, refer also to AHSGR Work Paper No. 24, Fall, 1977.

Dear Landsleute and friends! First, I would like to express When the prospective emigrant in Russia receives the our joy at being here with you, and I bring you greetings vyzov, he must present the documents to the office where from the Landsmannschaft der Deutschen aus Russland in emigration permission is granted. Recently permission to Stuttgart. emigrate has been granted quite quickly. There have been I would like to tell you about the problems of the cases where an individual arrived in Germany only one and Aussiedler, or returnees coming from Russia to Germany. a half or two months after receiving a vyzov. It is not like As you have perhaps heard, emigrating from the Soviet earlier when one had to wait decades and present ten to Union earlier was very difficult. It is not so easy now, but it fifteen vyzovs. Now one can emigrate after presenting only is much easier than it was. In order to emigrate, the one vyzov. individual who wants to leave the USSR must first write a Once the prospective emigrant receives permission to letter to Germany, giving all personal data. The relative in leave, he must sell or give away everything he owns; house, Germany who receives this letter and who wants his farmstead, everything. The emigrant is not allowed to leave relative in Russia to come to Germany must go to the Ger- without a document which tells what has happened to all of man Red Cross and issue a "vyzov," or invitation. This his possessions. Emigrants are allowed to take with them sometimes can be issued in one day. Once the vyzov has no more than 90 rubles. One either has to give away the been issued, things begin to get more complicated. The money obtained from selling his property, buy something prospective emigrant must then prove to Soviet officials he to take along to Germany or leave the money in Russia, or she is really a German and this is sometimes difficult. It (ed. note: there are many, many restrictions about how is noted in the identification papers everyone has in Russia much currency or personal property an emigrant can take if an individual is of German ancestry. Now that so many out of the Soviet Union. Restrictions include jewelry, cloth- want to emigrate to Germany, some people will use a ing, even photographs, if the customs authorities determine German name just to try to get out of Russia. That is why something has "historical value.") regulations are so strict about proving one is German. The When everything is ready, the emigrant goes to Moscow papers are sent to Hamburg and the acceptance into the to obtain a visa to allow him to go on to Germany. Earlier, Federal Republic of Germany is issued there. Once the when we came out, we arrived in Moscow at noon and by relative in Germany has that acceptance document, he or that evening we were ready to fly to Germany, Now it takes she sends it to Russia with the vyzov, about two weeks in Moscow to get a visa. Once the emigrant has the

24 visa from the German embassy, he goes to the airport or to to where the relatives live, he loses all unemployment and the railroad station. The last people we talked to who had other compensation. just arrived in Germany told us that the airport in Moscow Sometimes an Aussiedler can be in Germany three weeks looked like a county fair. There were suitcases and people and find permanent housing. If an apartment is vacant, he everywhere. There was scarcely room to stand, let alone can have it the next day. If an empty apartment is not room to lie down. The only route an Aussiedler can take to available, he may wait as long as two years. Germany by train is via Brest, Poland. The question of the rate of unemployment is often raised. All sorts of measures are being taken to ensure that There are already many unemployed in Germany, and now people leave quickly. Now emigrants are flown to Germany even more people are arriving. All the Russian Germans free of charge in order to not waste time. Emigrants fly to seem to be unemployed, but that isn't so bad. Among all the Belgium, Holland, and other countries, not just to Germany. Aussiedler — Romanian Germans, Polish Germans — the Whenever planes come to Germany from other European Russian Germans are the most skilled. They accept any kind countries, there are many Aussiedler on them. Lufthansa of work and are good workers. That is even reported in the has even initiated special flights. When there are many in newspapers. However, it is more difficult for the Moscow waiting to leave, Lufthansa sends special planes so academicians and people with higher educations. They are the Aussiedler can leave more quickly. It is a disadvantage, provided with additional training and education so they can however, for the Aussiedler that they can now fly out either retrain in another area or increase their skills in their without cost. Earlier they paid rubles for the flight and were first area. They then can obtain employment. reimbursed for the cost in Germany in marks. Now the One often hears now that the local population is against Aussiedler don't have to pay, but they also aren't the Aussiedler. They ask, "What do they all want here?" I reimbursed. Since an emigrant has to leave all his money in can tell you that I even heard them ask, "What if all the Russia anyway, it doesn't matter if he has to pay rubles for American Germans want to come here?" One must say that the flight. So the emigrant really does lose by not having to the majority, usually the older people, are for the pay for the flight. Aussiedler. They say, "Why all the fuss? They are Germans, When the Aussiedler arrives in Germany he is taken to a our fellow countrymen. We must accept them." Others, I use primary reception camp. Earlier the only camp was in the word "leftists," take the opposite stand and say, "We Friedland, but now there are several others. The camp in don't need them here." Even one of the German Cabinet Osnabrueck is for almost only Soviet Germans. There are officers who knows the work of La Fontaine, said, "We now camps in Nuernberg and Unna-Massen. People stay in should stop with this 'Ger-manity fal-de-ral' these reception camps five or six days. From the primary (Deutschtuemelei). They are not true German. They only act reception camps the Aussiedler is sent to one of the camps German and want to come to Germany to live better." Such in the various states, such as Schleswig-Hostein, Baden- people are in the minority. The majority are for the Wuerttemberg, etc. He will remain in this state camp only Aussiedler so no one needs to fear that the German five or six days. While he is in this camp, the authorities try government will put an end to Aussiedler immigration. The to find housing for him, then send him to a hotel or government says simply, "As many as come over from there whatever emergency housing can be found in the state. will be accepted, regardless of what someone might say." So Then the paper war begins. There are many difficult papers you can imagine that some of the German population might to fill out and questions to answer for the new arrivals. become antagonistic toward all immigrants in the end. In Recently a new law has been passed that the Aussiedler 1986, 99,640 non-German immigrants sought asylum, and must stay where he is sent for at least two years, as long as only 42,768 German Aussiedler arrived. From 1951 to he is unemployed. Some Aussiedler don't like being told 1989, more than 156,000 Germans have come from Russia. they have to stay at a place two years, but it really isn't that That is why the minority of the German population is bad. Once an Aussiedler has a job, he can move wherever simply jealous and says, "There are too many. More he wants in Germany. If the Aussiedler doesn't want to workers here and we abide by the rules and move

25 have to pay taxes for all the strangers in the world." People also wonder if perhaps fewer Russian Germans will want to emigrate since Gorbachev has promised them so much recently, even autonomy. However, that has not happened yet. The Landsmannschaft does a great deal for the Aussiedler in the area of social rehabilitation. They make sure the Aussiedler receives the money coming to him for pension, unemployment, etc. The Landsmannschaft conducts seminars in small groups throughout Germany in the counties where those recently arrived can come in contact with those who came in the earlier years. There he can be counseled and receive advice about how to adjust to life in Germany. One thing the Landsmannschaft has neglected is that too little about the history of the Russian Germans is printed in the newspapers for the local population. This past year I attempted to rectify this myself and wrote an article which was published in three newspapers. It was very successful, and I received many positive letters and telephone calls in response. During the war I worked with German prisoners- of-war in Russia. I wrote in the article that they were always hungry and poor and we were good friends with them and they with us. We were all Germans and we didn't discriminate. Now the Russian Germans come to Germany and the local population says, "They aren't German." I wrote that local population should be ashamed of that. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Schwindt Perhaps you ask if anyone ever returns to Russia. Now and There has been talk about creating an Autonomous German then we hear of someone returning, but that is very rare. Republic again, complete with German schools and Most of those we know about who have returned to Russia everything. On German television we recently saw a have come out again. But there are people who cannot program filmed by a German journalist in Dreispitz, Volga conquer homesickness. The best cure for that is to pay a Region, where Germans are living again. Residents of the visit to Russia. When they come back to Germany, they area report some anti-German discrimination. One couple don't leave again. For example, our daughter-in-law was in reported that they had been travelling on a bus in June, only Russia in 1981. She came back and said she never wanted two or three days before the television film was made. They to go to Russia again. Our daughter was in Moscow in July were speaking in German on the bus and the driver told and she said the same. Upon her return she said, "I don't them that if they did not stop speaking German, he would need to go back to Russia." kick them off the bus. Then a lady spoke — I could tell Things are not always easy for the Aussiedler. Many from her accent that she was from Morgentau (my village) complain, especially the older people who were born there — and she said her son was a teacher. When he was once or grew up there or maybe still have children there. They asked his name, he replied, "Bender." The Russian then complain that it isn't easy to adjust to life in Germany. But said, "Oh, you are a fascist." That was now, not earlier. they say that they are satisfied to be in Germany and have This year the German Commissioner for Aussiedler German children who again speak German. They are no Problems (Bundesbeauftragte fur Aussied-lerfragen) longer called "fascists" as they were in Russia. traveled to Moscow. He discussed with Soviet officials the possibility of making things better for the Germans in Russia so fewer would want to emigrate. The Commissioner reported that in the first five months of this year, 41,000 Germans have emigrated from Russia, This is three times as many as in the previous year for the same time period. I thank you for your attention.

26 INTERNATIONAL AHSGR FOUNDATION SIXTEENTH ANNUAL APPRECIATION LUNCHEON

At the head table, from left: Ruth K. Stoll, Secretary, Jake Sinner, Treasurer, Bob Sandberg who addressed the group on "Why You Should Learn More About Planned Giving, " Ralph L. Giebelhaus, President, Ruth M. Amen, Executive Director, Ed Schwartzkopf and Solomon R. Schneider, President-Elect.

27 International Foundation Report Ralph L. Giebelhaus

Since the 19th International Convention held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the board of Trustees of the International Foundation has met five times: October 7, 1988; May 19,1989; July 24, 1989; July 27, 1989; and July 28,1989. All meetings were held in Lincoln, Nebraska. Significant items approved by the Trustees were: 1. Advance of $3,000.00 to the Society for the republishing of The White Lamb. 2. Commitment to assist financially in the publishing of the Beratz book. 3. A grant to the Society for up to $5,000,00 for the purchase of a computer and printer. 4. A grant to the Society for $2,500.00 to assist in the funding of the Aussiedler Project.

I would also like to make note of two requests for grants being given consideration by the Grants Committee chaired by Rosemary Larson: Nebraska Panhandle Chapter — for videotaping the history of sugar beet growing and other activities associated with the German Russian people in the Scottsbluff-Gering, Nebraska areas. Central Washington Chapter — publication of a book on the history of early German Russian immigrants in the Yakima Valley area. The Foundation luncheon held Thursday netted $1,771.00 in contributions to the Foundation. The bazaar raised $849.84 and the auction held last night raised $2,361.00; the quilt raffle ear-marked for the Beratz Project netted $1,916.00, for a grand total of $6,897.84. The officers elected for the ensuing year are as follows:

President: Dr. Solomon R. Schneider

President-Elect: Edward Schwartzkopf

Vice-President: Joyce Deines

Secretary: Miss Ruth K. Stoll

Treasurer: Jake Sinner To the members and chapters that support the Foundation, I thank you. To the members and chapters that do not support the Foundation for whatever reason, may I remind you that this Society was founded to preserve the history of our heritage as well as to propagate its rich culture. As I observe the youth at this convention and at the pageant last Thursday, when a proud grandpa had his fifteen-month old granddaughter in attendance, I asked the question: Are we committed to give them, the youth, the assurance that this Society will continue for generations to come and will enable us to commemorate the pioneering spirit of our forefathers and to pay tribute to their lasting memory? One way to insure the future is to consider the Endowment Fund of the Foundation in your giving. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Trustees of the International Foundation for allowing me the opportunity to serve as Foundation President for the past two years. It has been a rewarding experience and one that I will long remember. To the membership: I thank you for the courtesies extended to me during this time.

28 SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION As of December 31. 1988 Total All Funds

ASSETS: Checking Account Balance 1,940.91 Gift Annuity Fund 5,759.52 Endowment Fund 19,110.24 Quilt Fund 2,515.56 Certificates of Deposit 181,567.11 Accrued interest receivable 1,904.05 Prepaid insurance 2,469.50 Note receivable 20,427.98 Stock - unrestricted (at cost) 44,500.00 Stock - restricted (at cost) 48,350.00 328,544.87

Property and Equipment (at cost) Headquarters Building Site 450,108.39 Chapel 56,432.78 Buildings at 201 'F' Street 69,915.29 Museum at 1139 South 7th Street 20,286.29 Land at 1145 South 7th Street 28,500.00 Cow 700.00 Blacksmith Shop 940.84 Caboose 3,325.00 Furniture and Equipment 7,604.90 Truck 700.00 Total Property and Equipment 638,513.49 Less accumulated depreciation 73,694.24 Net Property and Equipment 564,819.25

TOTAL ASSETS 893,364.12

LIABILITIES: Accounts payable 65.53 Accrued property taxes 826.87 Annuities payable 3,478.46 Deferred revenue 20,000.00 TOTAL LIABILITIES 24,370.86

FUND BALANCE 868,993.26

TOTAL LIABILITIES & FUND BALANCE 893,364.12

29 SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ACTIVITY For the Period January 1 through December 31, 1988 REVENUES: Total All Funds Gifts & Bequests — General Gifts & Bequests 11.828.72 — Building Fund Gifts & Bequests — 13,730.74 Endowment Fund 23,669.20 Total Gifts & Bequests Rent 49,228.66 Interest Dividends 23,540.00 TOTAL REVENUES 13,408.34 2,917.20 EXPENSES: 89,094.20 Administrative Services Insurance Taxes & licenses 17,220.00 Miscellaneous 3,141.87 Office expense 117.40 Professional services 406.23 Depreciation 1,604.28 Repairs & maintenance 2,477.42 Contributions to A.H.S.G.R. 13,633.83 TOTAL EXPENSES 5,262.58 EXCESS REVENUES OVER EXPENSES 330.00 44,193.61

44,900.59

NOTE: The information on these pages has been summarized. Copies of full statement are available upon request. MAJOR RECEIPTS July 1, 1988 to June 30, 1989 1988 Auction and Bazaar 2,555.10 Convention Quilt Project 2.483.98 Lincoln Chapter Quilters 125.00 Immigrant Plaques 3,200.00 Memorials 3,527.00 Genealogy 937.50 Archives and Library 995.00 Music Boxes 1,300.00 Sausage Kitchen (Now totals $21,000.00) 1,000.00 Birthday Club 700.00 Dividends - Air Products 2,222.40 Dividends - 601 "D" Street - Air Products 960.00 Payments on 209-211 "F" Street 4,132.56 Store rental 5,400.00 Building Fund 4,748.75 Caboose 260.00 Rent paid by Lincoln Chapter 420.00 $34,967.29

We have 2,652 shares of Air Products and Chemicals stock, given to the Foundation by Reinhold D. "Rudy" and Esther Amen. On June 30 it was valued at 40.125 per share. The payments on 209-211 "F" Street result from a gift from Rudy and Esther. The store rental of $5,400.00 is also a gift from Rudy and his brother Duffy's two sons, George and John.

30 FOLKLORE SYMPOSIUM

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to our hearts" Folklore Symposium! "But I am afraid I might not remember every Mr. and Mrs. Larry K. Larson, our members residing in word of the story exactly right." Racine, Wisconsin, motivated by last year's Folklore "What difference does that make? No two Symposium in Milwaukee, sent in a marvelous article people ever tell any story the same way. Why entitled "The Tale of the Tales," which is the first chapter should they? A story is a letter that comes to us of Yes and No Stories, written by George and Helen from yesterday. Each man who tells it adds his Papashvily, published by Harper & Brothers, 1946. With word to the message and sends it on to thanks to the Larsons and acknowledgement to Harper & tomorrow. So begin." Brothers, I open this Folklore Symposium by reading this "Well," the boy said, "There was, there was, and article to you. It expresses superbly the essence of folklore: —" He looked around the circle and saw all the eyes watching him and the rest of the words turned to pebbles in his mouth and he stopped. "The Tale of the Tales" "Go on," the old man said, "Go on, or you There was, there was, and yet there was not... have no right to listen any more. To listen to There was once a boy who lived far away in time stories without ever telling one is harvesting and in place from here. This boy's greatest grain without sowing seeds; it is picking fruit delight was to hear the stories the men of his without pruning the tree." village told every night as they gathered around a campfire. From the minute the flames flared high When he heard this, the boy knew he until the last coals shut their red eyes and fell could hesitate no longer and so he began . . asleep in their soft black blankets spun from soot, Today we have two speakers who will tell their folklore the boy listened while the men, in turn, each told (tales). This symposium also encourages and urges you, the a tale. listeners, to "tell" your stories by writing them on the Then one night as the stories were going around, "Every Member Folklore Solicitation Form" which you the oldest man turned to the boy and said, "Now received with the April Newsletter. it's your turn to tell one." Then take it to your Chapter President, who in turn, can "I cannot," the boy said. I do not know how to use it in programs at your chapter meeting before mailing it begin." to Headquarters. Please tuck this plea for your folklore "That is easy," the old man answered. "For contributions in the back of your mind for right now, as I stories always begin the same way — There was, tell you some highlights about and accomplishments of our there was, and yet there was not. It means that speakers, Dr. Friesen and Lawrence Weigel. what comes after is true and true, but then again, Victor Carl Friesen lives and writes in Rosthern, not so true. Or perhaps it means that what is true Saskatchewan, Canada. Rosthern began as a Men-nonite for two men is not true for three." community in 1891, and Dr. Friesen's father was part of the "I will try," the boy said. "There was, there original group settling there. His family had come over was, and yet there . . . No. I can't tell a story. I from Russia the year before. Through him. Dr. Friesen can can't even read," trace his ancestry back six generations directly to Jakob "So much the better, the old man told him. Hoeppner, who was one of the Mennonite deputies who in- "Neither can I. Those who read have stories of spected the Russian steppes before Mennonite settlement their own they keep locked up in books. We have there from the Gdansk (Danzig) area of ours and they are better for they live with us day by day in our

31 Poland-Prussia, beginning in 1788. Dr. Friesen's mother many rhymes, maxims, and other expressions common to was born at Rosthern in 1899, the same year that her parents the Mennonites of Western Canada and the American had emigrated there from Mountain Lake, Minnesota. They Midwest. The Windmill Turning, cited for its calibre of had come over from Russia in 1875. writing and subject matter, has recently won two prizes in Dr. Friesen was born on a farm at Rosthern in 1933, took the first annual Alberta Book Industry Awards, receiving most of his high school by correspondence courses. After both the 1989 Book of the Year and Book Design honors. * attending Saskatoon Normal School, he taught in a one- * ^ room rural school near historic Fort Carlton, famous in the Most cities, whether large or small, can boast of their fur trading days in the Canadian Northwest. He then prominent citizens. The city of Hays, Kansas is no alternated university attendance with teaching in various exception because it can boast of Mr. Lawrence Weigel. schools and colleges. He has taught in an elementary town Mr. Weigel was born in Hays on October 26, 1916, and school, a composite high school, technical institute and received his education in Catholic schools (elementary, community college as well as at Mount Allison University, high school and college). He also studied at the University New Brunswick, and the University of Saskatchewan, in its of Colorado. He is a life member of the Knights of English Department. He took his Bachelor of Education, Columbus and St. Mary's Church, Hays. He is married and Bachelor of Arts, and Master of Arts degrees from the has four children. He was employed for several years each University of Saskatchewan and, while holding a Canada at the Ft. Hays Experiment Station, Walker Army Air Base Council Fellowship, his Doctor of Philosophy from the and Tholen Jewelry store. He spent thirty years at Allied, University of Alberta. Inc., of Hays, as manager of its Ready-Mix Division. Dr. Friesen is a life member of the Thoreau Society, a Lawrence's basic interest is in the preservation of our member of the Saskatchewan Natural History Society and treasured Volga German heritage. His forefathers, all of the Saskatchewan History and Folklore Society. them, are Volga Germans who came from Herzog in the In 1983, Dr. Friesen left teaching to take up freelance Volga area of Russia to America in 1876 and 1878, and writing full time. His eclectic interests are revealed in some settled in Ellis County, Kansas. In addition to being a one hundred articles and stories published on a variety of charter member of AHSGR he served one term on its In- topics: history, folklore, natural science, and literary ternational Board of Directors. He is the Folklore Chairman criticism. Some of the journals carrying his work include of the Sunflower Chapter and is an historian of the Volga Queen's Quarterly, Canadian Review, Canadian Audubon, German Society, Lawrence has spent over 50 years Canadian Geographical Journal, and Prairie Forum. His researching the history of his ancestors and has authored short stories have been read on the CBC (Canadian over 200 articles and several books of Volga German Broadcasting Corporation) national radio network, and he is history. He is author of music books of Volga German represented in an anthology of Mennonite writing in folksongs, having translated many of them into English. He Canada. He has also published three books: The Spirit of the has contributed to the recording and taping of numerous Huckleberry, 1984, a literary study of the naturalist- German favorites. For his many accomplishments philosopher Henry David Thoreau; The Mulberry Tree, Lawrence received a "Document of Appreciation Award" (with Anna Friesen), 1985, a study and collection of from the Kansas AHSGR Chapters, and the Distinguished Mennonite Plautdietsch folklore, now in its second printing. Achievement Award from Ft. Hays State University. His acquaintance with this folklore dates back to his early Lawrence is especially well-known to the AHSGR childhood, at his mother's knee, so to speak. In 1975 he membership for his "We Sing Our History" contributions to seriously began collecting the the AHSGR Journal. Also, he has been a speaker at previous conventions.

32 MENNONITE PLAUTDIETSCH FOLKLORE OF WESTERN CANADA AND THE AMERICAN MIDWEST

by Victor Carl Friesen

Let me start by giving one example of the folklore of the making it fit for greater habitation. They could do so, in Mennonites who settled in the western states and provinces fact, were invited to come by some Polish Catholic of our two countries beginning in the 1870's: noblemen, because of their marsh-draining, dike "Ruzhe, Petruzhe, constructing, and windmill building expertise. Waut ruschelt emm Stroo? Here they lived for two and a half centuries, retaining De Janstjes gone Boaft Dutch as their church language but adopting another Low Enn ha kjeene Schoo. German dialect for everyday use. This was the De Schusta haft Leestje "Plautdietsch" mentioned earlier. Note the precision in referring to this speech always as a Low German dialect Enn Lada feloare— and simply not as a German dialect. If the latter term were Nu senn siene Janstjes used, then one might well assume that it was a form of De Feetjes fefroare." standard German or a speech derived directly from it. This is just not so. To readers acquainted with only standard German, Plautdietsch instead is one of several Low German that is, literary (High) German, this may seem to be in a languages which are spoken along the low-lying coastland, strange tongue. It is what these Mennonites call extending from the Netherlands across northern Germany to "Plautdietsch," one of several Plat-tdeutsch or Low German Poland, hence the modifier "Low." These are languages of dialects which they adopted and adapted and made the lowlands. Going from west to east, one can speak of the uniquely their own. East Friesland dialect, the one incidentally, in which Menno The Mennonites adopted it sometime in the seventeenth Simons (the church leader from whom the Mennonites century while settled in Poland, in what is now the environs derived their name) wrote extensively, and four others: of Gdansk (then known as Danzig). They adapted it Oldenburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Mecklenburg, and through several centuries of usage, indeed right to the Plautdietsch. Thus Mennonites, although originating in the present time, adding to it Polish words (as you might Netherlands area, were now using a dialect from the eastern expect in a Polish country) but also Russian words in the German border region and making it their ethnic language eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and finally English and in the 1600s. (Reuben Epp, of Kelowna, British Colombia, Spanish in this century. has done wide-ranging research in working on a It should be apparent that Plautdietsch is very much a comparative study of these dialects.) unique language and that those Mennonites using it, with A millennium earlier, when the Second Consonantal or its varied vocabulary borrowings suggesting treks from High German Sound Shift occurred in the West Germanic country to country across Europe, are a unique people. Language of Europe sometime between 500 and 700 A.D., Therefore, one really cannot adequately consider the standard (High) German developed south of the higher folklore (an English translation and discussion of the above Harz region of Germany, hence the modifier "High" to rhyme will be forthcoming) without first giving some back- distinguish it. This was the language of the highlands-Now ground about the "folk" speaking it and some "lore" about this Second Sound Shift is particularly significant to our the language in which it was spoken. Mennonite people, for it caused the Germanic tongue to The Mennonites emigrating to Western Canada and the split into Low and High divisions and the Mennonites American Midwest came originally from what is now the would incorporate both into their culture. The Low Netherlands and adjoining northern Germany. There they Germanic Plautdietsch came early on in their 250-year stay spoke a Low German dialect and at the same time wrote in the mainly in another Low Germanic language — Dutch. In the years following 1530, at the time of the Reformation, they moved to the Vistula delta area of Poland (at Danzig, or Gdansk) and reclaimed this swampland,

33 Vistula delta. And at the end of this time, in the 1760s and Note the goslings. If these are little geese, there must '70s, High German supplanted Dutch as the church also be a Mother Goose somewhere. Plautdietsch folk language and language of formal usage. This came about literature has its parallels with English lore. Why shouldn't because of the First Pardoning of Poland in 1772, when the it? English is a Low German language too. area fell under direct German control, and the existence of My book. The Windmill Turning (Edmonton: the eloquent Luther translation of the Bible. University of Alberta Press, 1988, reprinted 1989), in When the Mennonites continued their cross-continent trek, addition to having separate detailed chapters on the this time into Russia in 1788, this parallel usage of High Mennonites, their history, their language and a literary German and Plautdietsch also continued, became analysis of their folklore, contains 450 items of this entrenched, and carried over into America a century later. Plautdietsch, folklore. There are nursery rhymes and games, So here we have an originally Netherlandic and Germanic songs, riddles, tongue-twisters, maxims, and other people being fluent in both High German and Low German, expressions, many of them known from my childhood being commonly called Russian Mennonites (because that (learned at my mother's knee, so to speak.) They are given was the last country they inhabited before emigrating to in the original Plautdietsch, and in idiomatic English, America) and now having to leam a third language — which retains the rhythm of the original if the item rhymes. English (while those having formed breakaway colonies in I began seriously to collect these items in 1975, not at first Mexico or Paraguay added Spanish words to their ethnic realizing how large the collection would grow, and even speech). Is it any wonder that they were called a unique now it is certainly not exhaustive. To present some people at the start of this article? organization to this large body of folklore, I started with All these influences from the several countries helped to those items which a very young child would learn first, and give these Mennonites a rich and varied folklore, all of it then proceeded to the wisdom of adult proverbs, and I have recorded in homely Plautdietsch^ that serviceable language space here to give but the merest sampling of the different of hearth and home, of everyday activity in the rural life of categories, along with a few comments. our Mennonite forebears. A serviceable language it rightly Of the nursery rhymes, some refer specifically to the is, because of its borrowings, when needed, from other individual homelands in which the Mennonites lived. One speech; because of its own vivid, down-to-earth speech, of them, referring to Russia, is especially interesting with many words being onomatopoeic (the sound because it seems to presage the eventual communist suggesting the meaning.) takeover following the Revolution: We began this article with a sample folklore rhyme. The very first lines, "Ruzhe, Petruzhe, / Waut ruschelt emm "Marie, Marie, Maruschtje, Jinkj Stroo?" bear out what has just been said. The word ruzhe emm Woolt no Kruschtje; suggests, when pronounced, a rushing sound, something is Kjeem de Rusche Steewel-kjnajcht Enn neem rustling in the straw, obviously a farm scene. Petruzhe ar aule Kruschtje wajch." comes from the Russian diminutive for Peter, a borrowing from another language. And what does the rhyme say in vivid speech? Here is the polished English version (translation of all verses in this article copyright © the "Marie, Marie, Maruschtje, author, 1989); Went to the woods for Kruschtje; "Ruzhe, Petruzhe, Came the Russian hired man And What rustles the straw? took the little pears and ran." The goslings go barefoot — Without shoes, I saw. Maruschtje comes from the Russian diminutive for Marie, The shoester has mislaid while its rhyming word Kruschtje are little pear-like fruit which the Mennonites grew in their orchards on the Russian his last and his leather, steppes. Note that the hired man is jack-booted (he wears And now little bare feet Steewel) and is Are cold in cold weather."

34 called a Kjnajcht, for which the cognate English word is "knight," that hireling in the feudal system. The nursery games are rhymes too, but they all involve actions and full directions are given. The baby is lovingly played with and taught about fingers and toes, cheeks and noses. Here are three rhymes for counting off the fingers in turn:

"Dume, schedde Plume; Du, lass opp; Du frat opp; Du, saj, Holl-loll-loll-loll;' Ekj woa Muttatje saje."

"Thumb, shake down plums; You, gather up, You, eat them up, You say 'Hull-lull-lull-loo'; And I'll tell Mother on you." "Little finger, Gold ringer, Long neck, Butter licker Louse knocker." "Kjliena Finja, Golt Rinja, Lank Hauls Botta Lekja, Lustje Kjnekja.'

"Ekj enn du enn dee— Daut senn dree: Jana enn sien Wief— "You and I and he That Daut senn fiew." makes three; That one and his wife-That makes five."

Then there are several rhymes with a rocking rhythm, where a child may be rocked in its cradle, bounced on the knee, or swung on the foot while riding "horsey." This is one example:

"Hupptje, Mauntje, riede, No de groote Wiede, Wua de groota Witt-baum steit, Wua de Wajch no Groosmaujeit." "Hopalong, little man, ride away, To the willows so big and gray, Where the great white birch tree stands, Where the road to Grandma ends."

The children's games are rhymes for older children. There are rhymes for choosing someone to be "it" for a game of tag, where children will say, "Aedel, Baedel, biff, bauf, auf," instead of 'Ickle, Bickle, Black Buckle." There is one rhyme which initiates a Blindman's Buff and another question-and-answer game which involves a Mother Goose, There is a song, and actions for it, very similar to "London Bridge is Falling Down," and a further circle game which parallels "Ring-around-a- rosie." It goes this way:

"Runde, runde, Roosekrauns, Weppestauns, KJlinkjs dol, Noch emol— Aule kjliene Kjinja faule dot."

"Round and round the rosy crown, Curtsy then, Squat down, Once again— All the little children tumble down."

What is remarkable about this rhyme is not just its parallel to the English version, but that both rhymes hark back to something more than just an innocent children's amusement. Researchers now tell us that "Ring-around-a-rosie" does not refer to flowers but rather to the feverish rash that appeared on sufferers of plague (the "Black Death") in the Middle Ages. The pocket full of posies was what was carried to ward off the effects, if possible, of this disease of which they did not know the cause. But doing so was to no avail, for they all fell down and succumbed. It seems that the Mennonite people preserved this rhyme in Plautdietsch from a time before their religion and ethnic culture even existed. Just as children coped with sorrow and calamity by incorporating them into their play activities, so their parents could make light of staid matters and

35 bear hardships that way. What their folklore reveals about doot" ("Bread slays the hunger dead") is a striking way of the Mennonites is not what outsiders popularly see them as affirming that bread is the staff of life. Maybe that is why — sober and strait-laced — but rather as a people with a "The cook and the cat/are always fat." Several maxims are keen sense of fun and a droll humor. Who else, for about good household management: "Who buys what she instance, would have devised a tongue-twister about such a doesn't need will soon need what she can't buy," "He who mundane activity as wives washing diapers (Winjie) in makes a frugal meal can eat a second time." And there are warm, soft water (Wota)? maxims about the children" "When the little mouse is full, "Wie witte wieva wella witte Winjie wausche, then is the kernel bitter;" "The apple doesn't fall far from the tree;" "What little Hans doesn't learn, big Hans never Wan wie wiste wua woamet weekjet Wota will;" "Little children press down on the lap; big children wea; weigh much upon the heart." Oba wan wie witte Wieva wensche wudde, There are proverbs for farmers, too. They tend to be about Wudd woll woamet weekjet Wota woare?" the weather and an optimism about, and an acceptance of, the present circumstances. Bad times are followed by good, All the characteristics revealed about the Men-nonite says one maxim: "When frost in winter goes crack/Next people in their folklore rhymes — compassion, humor, and summer's grain fills many a sack," There can be jibes at the love of family — are even more evident in their many weatherman — "That's a weatherman for you — /Eating maxims or sayings. The Windmill Turning has preserved much and not a clue" — but a philosophical farmer will more than 150 of them, divided into five subject groups. always know that "Aun Gottes Saeajen/Ess aules jelaeajen" Maxims about marriage and raising children and also ("On God's good tending/is all now depending.") those specifically for housewives stress basic homemaking A very large group of Plautdietsch sayings are about the values. "Broot schleit de Hunga ups and downs of life — in all walks of life. "All beginnings are hard" is one maxim here,

Dr. Friesen took time after his address to answer questions.

36 but this can be paired with "Who persists will succeed" — my father's favorite!). Here are some other admonitions: ("Waea aunhelt, dee jewennt" — my mother's favorite!). "The more school, the more fool;" "Who gives willingly, Often the maxims give opposing views so that at least one gives doubly;" "A bit too late is much too late:" "In Russia of a pair will be appropriate no matter what the situation. we don't question whether we're tired or not" ("Enn Thus we have "The longer, the better," but also "The Russlaunt froag wie nijch no Meed"). longer, the poorer." Or we have this colorful maxim ad- It should be apparent from this survey of the topic that the vocating perseverance: "We've got past the dog; now we Mennonites from Russia were tireless in encapsulating still have to get past the tail." The best way to meet their everyday values, their wit and wisdom, in memorable tribulation is with the typical Mennonite humor. A person verse and statement. There is much to be learned from the knows that everything, including travail, comes to an end folklore. As one rhyme pronounces: — everything, that is, except a sausage. That comes to two "Eene woat oolt auss ne Koo Enn leat emma ends. meea doa too." What one's daily behavior should be is already suggested, "One gets as old as a cow and always learns and it is the subject of a second large group of sayings. One more and more." must not only work hard — "It helps nothing just to pucker the lips; you have to whistle"—but make use of his brains while doing so—"Who doesn't use his head must use his feet" ("Waea et nijch em Kopp haft, haft et enne Feet"

My Relatives from Russia Marvin C. Schaal

Mr. Schaal presented an excellent slide show of his relatives from Russia. Unfortunately, it is impossible to do justice to such a presentation in this Journal, so we must refer all enquiries to Mr. Schaal. We thank him for sharing his family and reminiscences with us.

37 LAUGHTER: A GOOD MEDICINE How folk humor sustained our people Lawrence Weigel Guten Tag — Wie gets Heit? (Good day — how are you as possible in German, and translate them into English. today?) Heit wolle mir g'spass ban. (Today we want to have The dialect I speak is the Herzoger dialect, and it originates fun.) I want all of you to relax, forget your problems, sit in the Rheinland Pfalz area, south of Frankfurt and west of back and enjoy this folklore session entitled "Laughter: A the Rhine in present-day West Germany. We have four Good Medicine — How folk humor sustained our people." other dialects where I live, but many of these dialects have Why did our people put so much emphasis on humor? I become a mishmash, because of the infiltration of English: found a good answer in Dr. Timothy J. Kloberdanz's "Ja, heit wolla mir mo\junny stories verzehle." I am going Master Thesis, written in 1974, Colorado State University. to use the expression, "I said .. ." to illustrate the five Tim, whose folklore contributions to the Germans from dialects spoken in our country, Russia in America are without parallel, wrote: Herzog, "Ich han g'sad." "The German culture that existed on the Volga has been of In Katharinenstadt, "Ich hab g'sacht." special interest not only because of its successful adaptation In Munjor, "Ich hun g'sad." to a harsh environment, but because of its unusually static In Pfeifer, "Ich hen g'sood" character." To adapt to a harsh environment took more than In Schoenchen, "Ich hun g'saecht." faith and hard work. Our people relied on humor to keep There are hundreds of variations in our dialects, but we all their sanity. Remember, they had a history of attacks by understand each other, hi Katharinenstadt plaudere de Lait nomads, crop failures, epidemics, hunger, persecution, so queer. In Herzog plaudere die Lait so q'spasich. (Two deportation, and yes, even death in slave camps. So, they different ways of saying, "They talk so funny." relied heavily on humor to survive. Humor was a part of The stories told by our people can be put into three everyday life. It was used in daily conversation, in categories: proverbs, in songs. It was spontaneous. As Tim said, it 1. Stories told in Russia. remained static; that means it never died. It is just as important today as it was 200 years ago. 2. Stories told in the United States. Every village had a special storyteller who could entertain 3. Stories which involve the English at weddings, farm sales, or at any kind of gathering. I am language, Also, songs often have a subtle way sure you all remember someone special in your area who to bring out humor. For example, let me sing for you was a good storyteller. We had few who were better than several of these songs: Fetga in Pfeifer; Feda in Katharinenstadt, Daz in Der Hans un die Gret sin Lustige Leit. Schoenchen, Doppler Anton in Herzog, and Anton Gabel in Der Hans is e Narr, un die Gret is net Munjor. These were the old timers. Today others have g'scheit. taken their places. Larry Werth of Schoenchen and Presi- (John and Gret are happy people. dent of the Sunflower Chapter, Hays, Kansas, as well as John is a fool, and Gret is not smart.) Lavern Becker, President of the Post Rock Chapter, Russell, Kansas, are good storytellers. At every meeting we Es is a Russ in Brunna g' fall. Ich had den have, Larry makes sure that a few good stories are told. g'hoert blumse, The stories are told in the various German dialects, which in itself makes them funny. Since this is a folklore han ich 'n an die Hoor ge-grapsht sonst session, I feel that to retain the true nature of the folklore, I wer er mir versunka. must tell the stories as much (A Russian fell into a well, I heard him flop, so I grabbed him by the hair, or he would been lost.)

38 Unser Katz hat Kaetzher g'hat, dreimal, palms, a sign of humility, and on Ash Wednesday made the sechse, neine, sign of the Cross on the foreheads of his people with the Die eine hat ka Schwaenzje g'hat da ashes. As he was making the Cross with the ashes, he said, faengt sie an zu greine. "Gedenke 0 Mensch das du Staub bist, un zu Staub wie der (Our cat had kittens, three, six, nine. zurueck kehrest." (Remember, 0 man, that you are dust and to dust shall return.) One of them had no tail, so she began to The minister then asked if the priest had any extra ashes, to cry.) which the priest replied, "Yes." The priest put some in an envelope, and the minister took them along. On Sunday, the minister announced that on Ash Wednesday, the people should all come to church, where there would be a special service. On Wednesday, the church Stories that have origins in Russia (Russland) often begin was full. As the minister was ready to give the ashes on the like this: "Do war e mol eener in Russland ..." (There once foreheads of his people, he realized he had forgotten to was a guy in Russia...) And speaking about a guy in bring the ashes. They were still in his pants pocket at home. Russland, Lavem Becker tells this humorous story: So, the minister crossed the people and said, "Gedenke 0 In Russia, it was the job of a man to collect the manure Mensch das du bist was zu Hause in meine alte Hose ist." from each household and hall it to a big pile at the edge of (Remember 0 man that you are what is at home in my old the village. Manure in German is called "Mist." So, pants.) naturally, they called the man "Der Mister." (The man who hauled manure) Later, when he and his wife came to the United States, they got off the boat in New York. As they were standing in line, one of the immigration officials came over to them, and said, "Hey, mister, come here!" "No wie wees der were ich sin, Ich sin erst von Russland kumm, un Ellis and Russell counties lie in the native limestone belt der koennt mich schunf" (Well, how does he know who I of Kansas. Our churches and many other buildings are am? I just arrived from Russia, and he already knows me!) made of this native limestone. There are also hundreds of Another of those Russland stories relates to Good Friday. It miles of limestone fence posts. You can see them at the was on this day that a lady who was washing noticed many Heritage Center. Larry Werth tells a story about two men people walk by her place on the way to the village. So she who were cutting stone in Antonio for a schoolhouse, in went to the road and inquired what had happened. One of 1934. They were Mr. Stecklein and Mr. Wasinger. One day the men said, "Heit is doch Kar-Freitag un unser Heiland Stecklein said that he was bom in Russia, and that one year leid uf en Schaab." (Today is good Friday, and our Savior is they raised cabbage. The cabbage was so big, it took two lying on the bier.) men to lift one head of cabbage onto a wagon, and only two She replied, "It's too bad that here I sit on the steppe, and heads would go on one wagon. Wasinger said nothing until our Lord dies, and I don't even find out about it." the next day, when he announced that he, too, was bom in We know when our folks first arrived in Russia in the mid Russia, and that one time they built a barrel that was so big 1700's, they had difficulty obtaining ministers and priests. that when the men on the north side were hammering, the Historians tell us that in some cases, a Catholic priest guys on the south side could not hear them hammer. ministered to the Lutherans, and in other cases, a Lutheran Stecklein wanted to know what in the world they wanted to minister tended to the spiritual needs of a Catholic parish. do with such a big barrel. Wasinger replied, "To pickle that Later on, priests and ministers became friends. One day a big cabbage you raised." priest was asked by a minister what he did on Ash Wednesday, The priest told him that he burned

(Continued on page 42)

39 The steps of the Nebraska State Capitol were the perfect place to get the picture of the total group.

We cherish those who were born in Russia, They are special.

40 932 attended the 20th Inter- national Convention. They came from Germany, Spain, Canada and the United States.

We take pride in our 697 life members, many of whom attended the convention.

41 (Continued from page 39) The clerk said, "You mean Mennens?" "No, Most of the stories we hear have their origin in America. womens," "You want it scented?" "No, I'll take Because in the first years in America our forefathers had it wid me." difficulty with the English language, some good stories developed. I tell these stories only to our people because only they understand. You know if a man speaks with a brogue, he knows two languages. The fellow laughing at him probably knows only one. Our state representative was in a debate in Topeka, Pfeifer in Russia was founded in 1767, and in Kansas in when the moderator said, "I understand you are on the 1876. The Pfeifer, Kansas, people came from Pfeifer, agricultural and educational committees, and that the Rothamel and Kamenka. They were Bergseiters. All the reason you attended only one meeting is because they had other towns in Ellis county were established by them simultaneously." Wiesenseiters. This often resulted in fights between the two Our representative replied, "That is correct, and I'll tell groups at weddings and ball games, even though the you something else; they also had them at the same time." Wiesenseiters also fought among themselves. The dialect spoken by the real Pfeifers is different than that spoken by the Kamenker and the Rothamelers. We all love to hear it. The day after a ball game it would not be unusual to Mr. Radke of Russell tells this story: At a church hear a conversation in Pfeifer that goes something like this: committee meeting in Russell, where an old Volga German "Mir hun gester die Herzoger Balle spielt, un ich un aaner man was a member, the preacher said, "I think we'll buy a von denne Herzoger sei in Trubble kumme, Ich hun den uf chandelier." die Noos g'schlooga, uin der hot a Noos wie a Woogarood." The old man said, "What do you want with a thing like (We played the Herzoger ball yesterday, and I and one of that, anyway? Who knows how to play it? And besides, if them got in trouble. I hit him on the nose, and he now has a we order it from Montgomery Ward, who can spell it? I tell nose like a wagonwheel.) Just the sound of " ... a Noos wie you what, if we want to spend money and buy something, a Woogarood" makes the story funny. why don't we buy a light?" There was a wedding at Pfeifer, and a man was invited. He A Volga German man in Hays had a contractor build couldn't go because he was sick. Later he met another man him a house. He and his wife went to Florida for a vacation who had been at the wedding. He asked him, "Warst woll while the house was being built. The man told the uf die Hochzeit?" contractor that he wanted a statue in the house when he "Ya," said the other man. came back. When the house was finished, the contractor, "War woll schoen?" knowing the man's name was Joe, bought a statue of St.

Joseph, and put it in the comer of the bedroom, on a shelf. "Ya." When the Volga German man returned, he was pleased "Die hun woll ach geraft?" with the house until he asked about his statue. The con- "Na." tractor showed him the statue of St. Joseph. The old man "No was for hochzeit war dan des?" said the Pfieferer. angrily replied, "Noooo! I mean one of them things what (Were you at the wedding? Yes. Was it nice? Yes. Did goes 'brmr' and you lift it up and say 'Hallo, statue?'" they fight? No. Then what kind of wedding was that?) A man had a tooth pulled in Hays. Someone asked him what it cost. He replied, "$5.00." "You should have gone to Pfeifer, they would have A Volga German man entered a store in Hays and asked, knocked it out for nothing." "You got any of that good schmelling stuff, what make you schmell good?"

42 A.J. Breit, from Pfeifer, tells the following story. In the on well decorated horses, with the American flag, to escort Depression, their relatives in Wallace county, near the the Bishop to the outlying towns. However, on this Colorado border, were even poorer than they were. His occasion, the Bishop was to arrive by car! Two men from mother knew the relatives were coming to visit, as they had Munjor, Befort's Sep and Rupps' Gross, decided to have written. She told A. J. to stand at the comer of the house some fun. They got into a new car, drove to the north of and watch for them. He came running into the house and Munjor, and approached town. Befort's Sep sat in the back, screamed, "Die kumme, die kmnme!" (They are coming!) pulled his collar up and his hat down, and they slowly His mother said, "Wie waast du das des die sein?" (How entered the town. The people were lined up on both sides of do you know it is them?) the road, all the way to Big Creek. Thinking it was the "They have no tires on their car!," he replied. Now Bishop, they knelt down as Befort's Sep made the sign of folks, that is poor! the cross from side to side. They all fell down, crossing themselves. When the real Bishop came a few minutes later, the people realized they had been fooled. The two culprits were afraid to show up in town for several months, as it was not safe. Katharinenstadt on the Volga was founded in 1766, and But this is the kind of event that made people forget their many of the people who settled there came from Lindheim troubles for a few days, and in the end had a big laugh about in Hesse-Darmstadt, northeast of Frankfurt. They speak a it. Yes, humor is good medicine. Staeder (city) dialect which is close to High German. They A man died in Munjor, and two old men went to the funeral. say "Pferd" for horse, and "Pfeif" for pipe. All others in the After the services, one said to the other, "Wie alt bist du?" country say "Gaul" and Pfeif." (How old are you?) A man in Katharinenstadt wanted to buy a horse from "Ich sin 85. Wie alt bist du?" Simpson, an Englishman. But he couldn't speak English. "95," was the reply. Another man in town said, "I can talk enough English to be "Do daets sich jo gar net bezahle vor dich zurueck ins an interpreter." So he went along. Dorf gene." (It would hardly pay for you to go back to When they got to Simpson's place, the second man said, town.) "He want to buy that horse there. What you want for him?" The old Katharinenstadt man, who was puffing on his "Pfeif," heard the Englishman say, "Forty-five;' meaning * * * * * * * * $45.00. "No mei Pfeif geb ich nich for des Pferd," the old man replied. Schoenchen on the Volga was founded in 1767; "For die Pfeif means "for the pipe," and sounds the same in Kansas in 1877. Their dialect features the soft "r." "Mir as "forty-five." The old man would not give his pipe for the sein noch Hays g'fahm." (We went to Hays.) Schoenchen horse. lies on the Smokey Hill River and is referred to as "Der Schmuge." Right now it is dry, and as the cities of Hays and * * * * Schoenchen depend on water from wells located in the Smokey Valley, the people say, "Der Schmuge is druke." Larry Werth is one of the best storytellers in that area. Munjor on the Volga in Russia was founded in 1767, and By request, I am going to tell one of his stories. Two men in Kansas in 1876. Researchers believe these people were sipping beer in the tavern in Schoenchen when one of originate from south of Frankfurt, on either side of the them said, "I used to work in Kansas City, and I worked for Rhine. a house mover. We moved a two-story brick house all the It was customary in the early days, when the Bishop came way across town, and never lost a brick." He looked at the to Hays for confirmation, for riders other guy and said, "You don't believe me, do you?" "Sure," said the other man. "Don't you remember I was behind you with the basement?"

43 Herzog on the Karaman River, a tributary of the Volga, mother does: she took the bottle off the shelf and sprinkled was established in 1767; in Kansas in 1876. I am from holy water. She sprinkled the walls, the floor, her husband Herzog, and ours is the dialect that does not use the past and children, so no harm would come to them. But in the participle of the verb. For example, I say "gang," not morning, when they woke up again, there was a big gange; "g'fahr," not g'fahre, etc. (I went, I drove.) surprise: everything was blue! You see, it was not holy In Herzog a man went to confession, and told the priest water she sprinkled at all, it was bluing (used in washing he had stolen a pig from the other man. He wanted to know clothes)! if he gave the priest the money the pig was worth, could he be forgiven. The priest said, "Certainly," and asked what the pig was worth. "Zehn Dollar." (Ten dollars.) Then the priest replied, "Geb mir's geld." (Give me the People everywhere are now so affected by the English money.) that has crept into our dialects that we now have a The man counted out twenty dollars. The priest reminded mishmash of new dialects. But this is the nature of folklore the man of the price. The thief replied, "Pater, vor den Preis and we love it. Let us not forget those treasured stories told han ich g'figured kaafich mir noch n Sau." (Father, I by our forefathers. I know that this audience could share figured for that price, I would steal another hog.) hundreds of equally humorous stories, all of them different. There was a bad storm north of Herzog one night, and a Collect them, save them, for they are part of our heritage. mother woke up and did what a good Catholic Someone recently wrote, "Humor is good for the soul. A little joke is a little seed; sooner or later you're going to get a big harvest from it." Indeed, humor is good for all of us. Enjoy it, laugh a little, and it will make you happy.

Mr. Lawrence Weigel

44 EDITING A VILLAGE RESEARCH NEWSLETTER William L. Scheirman We believe our newsletter, entitled Usu Leut in village Scheuermann families in Yagodnaya Polyana and Kolb dialect, has a longer continuous publication than any other remains unknown, though the origin town in Germany of AHSGR village research newsletter, having been started in the one Scheuermann family that originally went to early 1980. Richard D. Scheuerman, my second cousin's Yagodnaya is known. As a result of my correspondence, I son of Endicott, Whitman County, Washington, originated started to compile a list of my Scheuerman great-uncle's the newsletter. Richard and I previously gave a presentation families. In the autumn of 1958, in Alberta on business, I on the mechanics of finding subscribers and publishing. was able to meet Adam's sons Henry and Jacob, and some This paper discusses some of the sources of information of the Schierman group there who were of distant, but used for the newsletter. known degree of relationship to us. I made a trip to Endicott Finding information is related somewhat to my activities in 1962 and met many of the relatives there, including a of researching my own Scheuermann family. My little boy, Richard, who played with my sons. I was able to grandfather, Peter B. Scheirman (Scheuermann), emigrated make a fairly complete list of the Scheuermann families, but from Yagodnaya in 1876 to Rush County, Kansas, leaving did little else other than remain in communication at behind brothers Karl, Adam, Henry (Heinrich) B. and John; Christmas until after my 1976 business trip to Russia. While sisters Anna Luft, Dealis Kraus, Katherina Schneidmiller there, I tried unsuccessfully to get permission to visit and a Mrs. Weitz. These sisters remained in Russia. Adam Yagodnaya Polyana. and Henry followed Peter to Kansas in 1883 to Newton, not After hearing about my Russian trip, my second cousin's far south of Lehigh, Marion County, to which Peter had wife Norah Scheuerman, of Bashaw, Alberta, wrote to ask moved in the meantime. In 1891 Adam and Henry moved me about a book written by a Richard Scheuerman of to Whitman County, Washington. In 1892 Adam went on to Endicott. I wrote to Endicott and obtained his book. Bashaw, Alberta and Peter moved to Oklahoma in 1892. Pilgrims on The Earth. From it I found out about the Karl remained in Russia, but most of his children emigrated existence of the American Historical Society of Germans to Endicott to join their cousins. John emigrated later to from Russia and joined it. Argentina. When he died there, his family came to Endicott Yagodnaya Polyana was the farthest northwest of the to join their relatives. Most of the Yagodnaya group in Ar- Volga German colonies around Saratov. It hardly deserves gentina, of which John had been the leader, came to to be referred to as a village because it had a population of Whitman County, Washington, or Calgary, Alberta. John's about 10,000 before World War 1.1 prefer to call it a daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Fox Scheuerman, now of colony. Just south of it is Pobochnoye and south of Endicott, Washington, furnished a story to Usu Lent about Pobochnoye is Neu Straub. The German name of Neu the group in Argentina. Straub has been changed to the Russian "Novaya In 1958,1 noticed a George Scheirman listed in the Skatovka." Yagodnaya Polyana ("Berry Glade") and Denver, Colorado telephone directory in our public library. Pobochnoye ("Alongside") have not changed names since I started corresponding with some of my relatives in they are already Russian. The Soviets changed the German Endicott, trying to discover a relationship with George. names of many of the Volga German colonies to Russian Later that year on a business trip I met George and his names. Yagodnaya Polyana, Pobochnoye and Novaya father, J. George Scheirman (Scheuermann) of Fort Skatovka still exist, as shown on U.S. Defense Map Morgan, Colorado. J. George had emigrated from the Volga Volgograd NM38, Stock No. B01XNM30. Brent Mai German colony of Kolb in Russia. Later I was able to obtained this map for the AHSGR library while he was determine J. George's relationship to the Scheiermans of working in Washington D.C. Nebraska (of Kolb ancestry) from Gus Scheirman In the 1850s the colonies became crowded for land so (originally Gustav Scheierman) of Greeley, Colorado. The daughter colonies of Yagodnaya and Pobochnoye were relationship of the original started on the steppes about 100

45 miles southeast, on the east side of the Volga southeast of Oshkosh, Wisconsin probably had the largest colony of Saratov. Neu Yagodnaya and Schoental was settled by Yagodnaya families in the United States. About 400 people from Yagodnaya. Schoenfeld was settled by people families lived in Oshkosh in 1930. Amelia Noebel of from Pobochnoye. Rosental, Schoendorf and some other Oshkosh wrote a short article about these people in areas. These daughter colonies were located along the Oshkosh for Usu Leut. Other areas where Yagodnaya or its Yeruslan River. Some years later two "granddaughter" daughter colonies' families settled include Whitman colonies were formed about 10 miles south of their County, Washington; Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Rush and respective mother colonies. We know nothing about these Barton Counties, Kansas; Portland, Oregon; Northern granddaughter colonies except for their plat on a 1928 Colorado; Little Dorf and Pine Island, New York Russian map, which Brent Mai also obtained. This map (Northwest of New York City about 65 miles); Leader, shows the daughter colonies block by block. Unfortunately Saskatchewan, Canada; and a few in Oklahoma. From these such a map is not available for the Yagodnaya area. After bases, present descendants have spread over a large part of the founding of Neu Yagodnaya the colonists referred to the United States and Canada. Yagodnaya as "Alt Jagodnaja." The Russians translated the When writing a family history, try to get background "Neu" of Neu Schoental and Schoenfeld as "Nei" (there is material from the locations where your ancestors lived. At no "W" in Russian). Neu Yagodnaya became simply Richard's request, I wrote a history of my own grandfather's "Yagodnoye." Of these colonies only Rosental is shows as family for Usu Leut. Sometime during their sixteen-year surviving in 1975, with its name changed to Rozovka. residence in Kansas, my grandparents became Seventh Day Some of this information has been used in Usu Leut. Adventists. An inquiry to the area office of that church in When Richard started Usu Leut in 1980, a Frederich Topeka, Kansas, brought information that two evangelists Lust, originally from Yagodaya before World War II, from Germany worked extensively during the 1880's recently emigrated from Russia to West Germany. He establishing Seventh Day Adventist congregations of wrote to Endicott looking for his relatives in America. The Germans both from Russia and from Germany, throughout families had not been in contact since 1912. Fortunately the Kansas and Missouri. An inquiry to the city clerk of letter was routed to the proper people in Endicott; Lehigh, Kansas, brought a short, anonymous history of the correspondence was established and Frederich made a trip Seventh Day Adventist church there, including a to the United States. The first two issues of Usu Leut description of how a large group of these people left there featured Frederich's visit and had a brief background story and moved to Shattuck, Oklahoma, in 1902. A letter from on Yagodnaya Polyana. my aunt earlier had told how a number of my grandfather's Richard had been in contact with that great AHSGR Russian-German acquaintances and Weitz and Krueger researcher, Mrs. Emma Haynes, while she was living in relatives in Kingfisher and Blaine Counties, Oklahoma, had Germany. She sent him Wilhelm Wurz's article. "How moved to Lodi, California. The mosaic of a family history Jagodnaja Poljana was Founded" from the 1962 is assembled from many such bits of information. Heimatbuch der Deutschen aus Russland. He had it A genealogical want-ad section was started in the second translated by Fred Schnaible of Moscow, Idaho, and issue of Usu Leut. It has continued ever since and is now published it in installments in Usu Leut. The first issue also called "Family Finder." We are glad to hear about family had Yagodnaya Polyana's schoolmaster Georg Kromm's list branches who have located each other through this feature. of surnames only of the immigrant families to Yagodnaya When families emigrated from Yagodnaya they received in 1767. This list had also been furnished by Emma parochial certificates from the Lutheran Church, showing Haynes. Yagodnaya Polyana descendants are fortunate to their families' vital statistics. These served to transfer their have had the schoolmaster Georg Kromm, who wrote a church membership and as travel documents. In the 1870s history of the town and sent it to his family's ancestral town these forms were in German, but in later years they were in of Schotten, Hesse, West Germany. Richard had a copy of Russian with the names entered in German by hand. this history, sent to him by Emma Haynes, translated by Selma Mueller of Tacoma, Washington, and published it in installments in Usu Leut.

46 Many families have these in their possession. A sample was sow wheat, so most went to western Kansas in the published in Usu Lent with the Russian captions translated. spring. Some families kept in contact with their relatives in Russia One day I received a telephone call from Gladys Shireman even past 1930, though many lost contact after World War Blackman, then of Hill, Missouri, later of Stover, Missouri. I. Some families still have these letters in German script. A She wanted to know if we might be related. Her few translations of such letters have been published in Usu grandfather, Johann Adam Scheuermann, known as Adam, Leut. Obituaries from newspapers are a useful source of was one of the "Scheiermanns" on the passenger list of the family information though they sometimes have errors. 5'.S. Mosel in October, 1876. He remained in Lawrence and Some of interest have been published in Usu Leut. From did not join his relatives in western Kansas. He had a information from interviews and letters, a map of restaurant in Lawrence for nearly forty years up to World Yagodnaya was made up and published as an addendum to War I. His son Adam changed his name to Shireman and one issue of Usu Lent, showing the locations of residences married a girl from central Missouri, where their of various families as of about 1900. descendants now live. Gladys' sister. Alma Morrow, of Subscribers are invited to send in stories of interest. Jefferson City, Missouri, sent me a copy of the family Doris Maddern, Wakefield, Kansas, and Shirley parochial certificate. It is interesting because it shows Scheuerman, Denver, Colorado, sent stories by Volga Adam and Katherine Befus, his wife, born in Yagodnaya, German emigrant Peter Brack about the early years in Rush but Adam was confirmed in Schoental and Katherine was County, Kansas. In the northeast part of the county was a confirmed in Schoendorf. Their children were confirmed in village called "PIeasantdale," after Schoental in Russia. Neu Yagodnaya, to where they had apparently moved after Peter also wrote a short autobiography. He became a they were married. prominent merchant in Olmitz, Barton County, east of Rush Usu Leut subscriber Garnie Thornton, of Hemet, County, Kansas. California, sent me the baptismal certificate of her mother, In 1984 Richard Scheuerman, due to lack of time, Catherina Morasch. It was in German and dated September transferred the editorship of Usu Leut to William L. 23, 1881, in Leavenworth, Kansas. Catherina Morasch's Scheirman of Overland Park, Kansas. Richard remained father, mother and Hergert and Morasch grandparents had available as a consulting editor. Later Doris Maddern been passengers on the S.S. Mosel in October, 1876. Maria furnished a story by her cousin, Clara Kleweno, about their Katherine, sister of little Catherina's mother, was married to grandparents, Johannes Kleweno and Katherine Benner, a Henry Scheuermann, who had farmed for a while in Rush whose Mother was a Scheuermann. They came from the County, Kansas, and later moved to Cornelius, Oregon. daughter colony of Neu Yagodnaya, though they had been Among the attendees at the christening in Leavenworth born in Yagodnaya Polyana. After publishing this story in were Maria Katherine Scheuerman of Cornelius, Oregon, Usu Leut, I met one of Johannes Kleweno's grandsons. and Adam and Katherine Scheuermann of Lawrence, Merle Kleweno, in Kansas City. Kansas (Gladys Blackman's grandparents!). Stories from different sources about the same events can Dr. Barry Lust of McMinnville, Oregon, wrote a story often result in interesting connections. On October 24, which Usu Leut published about his grandfather, Wilhelm 1876, 270 people mostly from the daughter colonies arrived Scheuermann, who went back to Yagodnaya Polyana to in New York on the S.S. Mosel. According to Peter Brack, remarry and be a miller. His first wife had died in the they had assembled in Pobochnoye for their journey. United States. He took one son with him and left the rest of Included were six "Scheiermann" families (probably all his family in the United States. Due to World War I and the Scheuermanns) and one Scheuermann family. This group communist revolution, Wilhelm was not able to return to took trains to Lawrence, Kansas. Many stayed over the the United States. Dr. Lust noted that a Henry Scheuermann winter there before going on to Barton and Rush Counties, had come from Kansas and settled in Cornelius, Oregon, west of Great Bend. It was too late in the season to establish but he did not have details on the family. Garnie's item homesteads and provided the missing details. Such things make editing Usu Leut a rewarding endeavor.

47 Various German publications of background in-terest Wenker Sentences used for translation in German dialects, are available in the AHSGR library, but they need to be for the study of dialects and their places of origin. Alf translated. In 1926 in Germany, Dr. Karl Esselborn Poffenroth and Roy Kaiser of Calgary furnished a fictional published a series of articles entitled "Emigration from story of life in Yagodnaya in High German, Yagodnaya Hesse," describing the origins of the Volga German dialect and English. colonies. Emma Haynes furnished a copy and Selma Reports of people visiting their ancestral towns in Germany Mueller of Tacoma translated the articles. They have been make interesting stories. Mildred Scheirman Kaye and her published intermittently as installments in Usu Leut. husband Gerard, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, visited the Esselborn used some of Georg Kromm's material, including ancestral Scheuermann family village, Oberlais/Nidda, a Yagodnaya story of a wolf encounter written both in northeast of Frankfurt, West Germany, in 1984. The Yagodnaya dialect and High German. Selma added the editor's son, David Scheirman, of Julian, California, also English translation and the wolf story has been published in visited there in 1988. Both trips were featured in Usu Leut. Usu Leut. In a few cases, people have kept in contact with relatives in Ursula Armstrong of Chapman, Kansas, grew up in Russia and have visited them. Frances Hoynoski of Brick, Germany and has done some translations for the AHSGR. New Jersey, wrote an Usu Leut story about how she and her She often travels to Germany, and in 1987 she found Georg mother went to central Asia to visit her mother's sister, Kromm's Yagodnaya history, along with some other items, Yekaterina Kondratyevna (Ochs) Rudi, originally of in Schotten. She translated them and gave a copy to Ethel Pobochnoye. Stories can be written about or by people still Lock of Ulysses, Kansas. Ethel forwarded it to Usu Leut. It living who were born in the ancestral village. Our 1987 shows Georg Kromm's grandmother was a Marie Katherin summer issue featured three men from Yagodnaya who Scheuermann. Georg's sister Elizabeth married Heinrich were one hundred years old in 1986: John Puchs of Hobart, Wagner of Pobochnoye and they emigrated to Enid, Oklahoma; Henry Ruhl of Oshkosh, Wisconsin; and Peter Oklahoma. Raymond Wagner of Lamed, Kansas, is Gergert of Red Deer, Alberta. They all grew up in Elizabeth's grandson. Another sister, Marie Elizabeth, Yagodnaya. With the help of his son Emanuel, John Fuchs married Wilhelm Rothermal and they emigrated to Elbing, wrote an interesting and detailed story about his early life Kansas, northeast of Wichita. Dixie Choate of Granada, in Yagodnaya and it was published in Usu Leut. Katheryn Colorado, and Mary June Ferguson of Boulder, Colorado, Dippel Hardy, born in Yagodnaya and now living in are their granddaughters. Grant's Pass, Oregon, allowed us to publish a large portion While Edwin Gerk of Kelowna, British Colombia, was of the family story she wrote for her grandchildren. This, researching his village, he found a feature article by a too, gave many interesting details. visiting Russian about Yagodnaya Polyana in the "Saratov In 1986 I visited Calgary and had time one evening to meet Provincial Register," No. 312, 1894. He sent a copy to Usu one of my subscribers, Roy Kaiser. Roy told me about a Leut, and we published Richard Scheuerman's translation. Yagodnaya descendant in Argentina, Roberto Komschuh, In 1888 the John W. Schmick family were passengers on with whom he was corresponding. I wrote to Roberto and the same ship as the Scheuermann brothers, Adam and he became an Usu Leut subscriber. He furnished a story Henry, and came to Kansas with them. The Schmicks soon about the South German Drummer doves that were taken to moved back to the small colony of Yagodnaya people Russia in 1767. Their descendants were brought to living near Preston, Maryland. The Preston Schmicks had a Argentina by the Russian Germans, and descendants of centennial family reunion in 1988 and William G. Schmick those doves are still raised there today. wrote a booklet on the family history. Such family histories The above examples show how a village newsletter can provide material for village newsletters, editor can collect information from his or her subscribers Villages had their own German dialects. Publication of and other sources they suggest. One can see that we have items in village dialect makes an interesting historical no lack of material to put in our newsletter. The problem is feature. An Usu Leut article by Dr. William Keel of the deciding which of the interesting information to use, as we University of Kansas gave the forty keep our paper

48 small enough to require only one stamp for mailing. and county centennial books and church anniversary books Richard Sallet's book is an excellent reference for are good sources of information. information about the colonies as it lists all the colonies in Anyone interested may subscribe to Usu Leut from the the appendix. A good reference on the history and editor, W.L. Scheirman, 5201 W. 99th St., Overland Park, geography of the colonies is Adam Giesinger's book. Kansas 66207. Please enclose a self-addressed stamped Besides family histories, town envelope with information questions.

Village Research in the U.S.S.R. Dr. William Wiest Dr. Wiest presented an excellent informative slide show on his own village research in Russia. For complete information and photographs, we refer readers to the AHSGR Journal, Volume 12, No. 1, Spring 1989.

49 VISITING UMSIEDLER IN WEST GERMANY Tina Block Ediger

Years ago I lived next door to Harley and Ruby Stucky in Christmas time, but we did not. During World War II we North Newton, Kansas. They became my family. Behind did not even receive letters from our loved ones in Russia. my apartment was their large pasture filled with horses and Our place was different from those of our "Canadian" sheep. I often told the Stuckys that if I ever got married, I neighbors. We were required to speak Low German at would like the wedding to take place in their pasture. home and High German in church. Our friends spoke Anyone could come to the wedding, but all guests would English at home and attended English services. Why have to bring their own chairs and a sack lunch! I said this couldn't my parents be like other children's parents? As I in jest. Then the time actually came when I was going to matured I discovered that my parents were special people. marry Elmer Ediger, Elmer and I were spending the Our home was the kind where friends loved to come evening with the Stuckys when Harley reminded me about because our parents visited with them. I learned to know the wedding in their pasture. Before I could respond, Elmer my parents as loving, caring, considerate and unselfish remarked, "No, we are not getting married in the pasture. I people. am afraid the horses will say 'nay.'" I remember the excitement in our home when, after many It is a privilege to speak to an audience that is so familiar years, we received a letter through the Red Cross from with the German-Russian story. In knowing and mother's older sister who was in a refugee camp in understanding our past, we can better determine our future Germany. We learned that Mother's youngest sister and and in the process learn to know who we are. children were also in a refugee camp. We made plans to My parents emigrated to Manitoba, Canada in 1928 from have both aunts and their families come to Canada. The the Chortitza Colony in the Ukraine. We and others like us, older aunt lived in our home for two years. Her husband were the Russlaenda in our community. As children we was missing and her sixteen-year old son was killed in the heard many interesting stories of life in Russia and of better war. days. These happy times were followed by the terrors of As refugees came to Canada, many settled in our World War I, the revolution and the famine. The German community where they had relatives. They joined our people lived in fear and many emigrated to Canada in church and we young people realized that the road to search of a better life. Others emigrated to cemeteries. My English services was far from becoming a reality. Because parents prayed that they might be able to leave Russia for of the influx of "Displaced Persons," German would be the Canada. Their prayers were answered and they arrived in language of the church for years to come. "the promised land" on October 31, 1928. They were free Sometimes we were impatient with the ways of the but they missed their loved ones who stayed behind. displaced persons because we did not understand them. At In our community we Russian Mennonites who bedtime, our dear old aunt would rub herself with liniment emigrated to Canada in the 1920's established our own and wintergreen and the whole house would smell! One church because we did not feel at home in other churches. day my sister and I were in the kitchen talking about the The people who visited my parents were mostly our own "D.P. 's," when our aunt walked in. My very sharp sister kind. Often on Sunday afternoons families would visit each saw a can of peas on the shelf and pointed to it, saying, "... other and reminisce about the good and bad old days in de peas on de shelf." In time we came to embrace our Russia. I believed that every child grew up with such heritage. I am grateful to God that my parents were able to stories. I felt cheated as a child that I did not know my leave Russia and that we children had a chance at life. grandparents. I never sat on Grandpa's knee or ate In 1977 a cousin who had been exiled to Central Asia Grandma's cookies. Other children could go to Grandma's received permission to emigrate to West Germany. It had house, but we could not. Other children received presents taken him five years to get exit papers. In 1978 my husband from their grandparents at and I planned a trip to Europe.

50 We wrote to these relatives to ask if we might stop in for a relatives in the Soviet Union and almost all of us did. Some day while we were in West Germany. Their response was, met parents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins and "If you come for only one day, don't come at all." We shirt-tail relatives. It was a moving and exciting experience. stayed for five days. As we approached Stuttgart on the During our first evening in Moscow, while we were train I wondered if we would recognize each other. As we waiting in the hotel lobby for our room assignments, an got off the train we saw a man and young woman, excited man burst upon us. He asked if we were the seemingly waiting for us. "Are these my relatives?" I Mennonites from Canada. "Yes," we replied. "Is there a thought. We approached them and I asked, "Hans?" "Ja. Peter Friesen in the group?" Tina?" "Ja." We embraced and shed a few tears. The young "Yes." woman with Hans was his daughter Larissa, We spent the next two days with Hans and Anna and their children. They "Which one is he?" all lived in a three-family apartment, Each family had a We pointed Peter out to him. He rushed over to Peter and bedroom and shared the kitchen and bathroom. Hans and embraced him. Weeping, he said, "I am your brother Franz." Anna were most hospitable. For the first time we heard Peter and Franz had not seen each other in 43 years. Franz stories of relatives in Russia; stories that could not be told in knew his brother was coming to the Soviet Union but he letters. After two days of hearing about trials and could not wait for him to arrive in Central Asia. He took the tribulations, I said to my husband. "I don't know if I can train to Moscow and finally found Peter after searching in a hear any more. It makes me so sad. But then I only hear number of Intourist hotels. We wept with Peter and Franz. about it. They had to experience it." That was the beginning of an emotional tour. We wept every My cousins were most grateful to the West German day as we witnessed the reunion of loved ones who had not government for allowing them to come. They could hardly seen each other for many, many years. One of our group met fathom the new freedom that was theirs. They were afraid his father from whom he had been separated for 46 years. I this new freedom might not last. They feared that one day can still hear them weep as they embraced. I saw a son meet someone would knock on their door and tell them that it his mother in Frunze, from whom he was separated 44 years was all over, earlier when he was a baby. Later he met his father in In 1984 my sister and I traveled to West Germany and met Zaporoschje. with Hans' sister Anna and her family, who lived in the I met five first cousins, all nieces and nephews of my same apartment complex. Again we. heard many tragic mother. Three sisters came to Tashkent and the two brothers stories. My cousins lost their father, six brothers and a met me in Alma Ata. I was sorry that I could not meet their husband during those terrible years in Russia. We had to parents (two aunts and one uncle) because they lived in leave before they told all the stories so I asked Anna to areas that were off-limits to tourists. But I did get to speak write about her life in Russia. She claimed that she was not with one aunt on the telephone. She asked me many ques- educated and could not write, but I would not let her get by tions but the one that startled me the most was, "Do you with that. Several months later I received a ten-page, hand- have a cow?" written German letter, with no margins and all in one "No." paragraph, I wept as I read her letter; how could one person "Can you buy everything in the store that you need?" survive so much pain and not lose her mind? Anna was only "Yes, we can get everything we need and lots of things one of the many refugees who fled to Germany with her we don't need." She had no idea of what life was like in family in 1943. Enroute her only son died in Poland, Later America. she and her family were captured by the Soviet army, sent One of our group met 150 relatives on that trip. He was the to Siberia for 15 years and then exiled to Central Asia only one of his family who was able to emigrate to Canada. where they lived until 1977-1978. Anna is a beautiful The others were all exiled to the Soviet Union after having person whom we all have learned to love. escaped to Germany during the war. My desire to learn more about my heritage inspired me to Everywhere we traveled in the Soviet Union loved ones visit the Soviet Union in 1987.1 joined a Canadian tour were waiting for us. At the close of each which was designed for us to meet

51 visit our group would join them in singing "God Be With and act. They have been a downtrodden people who have You Till We Meet Again." A frog in my throat kept me been denied their rights. from singing with them. One day, just before leaving for Worship services were conducted Saturday afternoon the airport, my travelling companion and I were in the bus and evening, as well as Sunday morning and afternoon. while the others were outside singing our parting song. I People did not mind sitting through long services. For them turned to my friend and said, "These people live in an open it was a privilege. Their songs were usually sad songs about prison." "Yes," she replied. "And it could be you and me a "Heimat (homeland)." On Sunday morning the chairman standing there." How true, and how grateful we were for of the service asked all those to stand who had arrived in the opportunities that enable us to live in America. Germany during the last twelve months. More than half of At a church meeting in Karaganda I heard the people sing the 3,500 people in the auditorium rose to their feet. That "We Are Marching to Zion." I sat down, listened and tried was impressive! All these people new to West Germany are not to cry. "If anyone has been on the march, you people looking for the homeland of their dreams. have," I thought. Over and over again I thanked God that While at this gathering I learned that Umsiedler are those my parents got out of Russia in 1928.1 wish I could thank who came to West Germany from the Soviet Union in the them again but they are both gone. early 1970's; that the Rueck-wanderer are those refugees Since 1987 twenty-seven relatives have left the Soviet who moved to Paraguay in the late 1940's, found life very Union and I saw most of them on my recent visit to West difficult and returned to West Germany in the last few Germany, By now I have 49 relatives in West Germany and years; and that Aussiedler are those who have come to West another 14 waiting to come. A visit to West Germany is Germany from the USSR, Poland, Hungary and Romania in most worthwhile! My two aunts and one uncle are among the last ten to fifteen years and continue to arrive every day. the 27 relatives who now live in West Germany. Among them are Lutherans, Catholics, Baptists, A highlight of my trip to West Germany was to attend a Mennonites, and I assume some who do not have any Mennonite reunion in Bielefeld, June 10-11. Travelling church affiliation. Once they have been processed by the along the Autobahn at 140 kilometers an hour a car passed government and have received the necessary papers, they us. In the back seat was an elderly woman with her hair in a are able to request visas for mothers, fathers, brothers and familiar bun. We decided that they also were going to the sisters. The influx of immigrants continues at a high rate. Bielefeld reunion. We caught up with them, rolled down These Germans from Russia are conservative in their dress, our window and called out, "Are you going to Bielefeld?" hair styles, and religious beliefs. The women wear head "Ja." How did we know? They looked like Mennonites scarves or shawls at home and in public. The younger from the Soviet Union! women wear their hair in braids. Middle-aged Sara told us About 4,000 people gathered at Bielefeld, all eager to meet that a Muslim woman on the street smiled at her, probably long lost friends. I observed, listened and learned. I tried to mistaking her for a fellow Muslim. imagine what their lives must have been like and I was The week-end came to a close but my visit with relatives deeply moved. Often I stood back and just watched people continued. A few days later I found myself in Bad meeting people who had not seen each other in ten, twenty, Friedrichshall where I met my uncle and aunt for the first thirty or forty years. There were signs of recognition, then time. They arrived in Germany on May 2, 1989. This was embraces, kisses and tears. I saw men hugging and kissing the aunt who wanted to know if I had a cow! My uncle, each other. These people had the common bond of who is my mother's youngest brother, has been ill for 38 suffering and surviving. Many of their loved ones did not years. For 33 years he has been bedfast. He is paralyzed and survive. Each of them has a story to tell, but who will is hardly able to speak. I sat at his bedside and longed to tell record these stories? They must not be lost; they must be my parents about this visit. My mother always talked so preserved. Future generations must know about the lovingly about her little brother Peter. And there he lay in suffering of these people. This suffering shows in the way bed and I sat at his side. I held his hand, looked into his they walk eyes and said, "Uncle Peter, I wish you could say something.

52 Please, please try." Then, in a whisper, I heard, "Tina, you needed to go to German language school before they could look like your father." I was moved to tears and I admitted find jobs. Many of the older people who come learned to that I was a chip off the old Block. Soon he began to talk speak German at home, but they never learned to read or and it was a story about the time gypsies came to their write it. They are functionally illiterate and need to go to home and his older brother chased them away. He had a school before they are able to fill out job applications. twinkle in his eyes as he recalled that experience. This visit The immigrants we met at Unna Massen had come from was a dream come true. I was able to meet my Uncle Peter Poland. Some arrived in their own cars, towing campers (the only uncle I have left), his wife, their son whom I had filled with household goods. Why do people want to leave met in Alma Ata and their grandson and his family. I left the land of their birth, whether the Soviet Union, Poland, Uncle Peter, wondering whether I would ever see him Romania or Hungary? Because they long to be reunited again. My joy continued when I met Aunt Lena, who with loved ones. They want to live out their faith. They arrived in West Germany about a year and a half ago. She is want political and personal freedom. They want to be 91 years old, deaf, with a wrinkled, toothless face and the Germans among Germans. They dream of a roof over their brightest sky-blue eyes I have ever seen. We were able to heads, a place to work and an education and better fife for communicate in spite of her deafness. It was both a pleasure their children. and a treasure to meet this aunt who has suffered so much The West German government is concerned about the in her lifetime. Aunt Lena lives with her daughter and son- country's decrease in population, about one million since in-law and is the mother of the three sisters I met in the last census. Some Germans resent the influx of these Tashkent. Her daughter Anna said to me, "In Russia we immigrants while others welcome them and believe that this were the Germans and in Germany we are the Russians. is good for the economy of the land. An official Wir haben keine Heimat. (We have no homeland.)" This is representing the West German government in Bonn spoke the plight of those who come. They find a "homeland" but it at the Mennonite gathering in Bielefeld. He welcomed all is different than what they imagined. Their experiences in the immigrants when he said, "We need your large families. Germany are bittersweet. We need your work ethic. And we need you to spread your Some people cannot make the adjustment and return to faith in our country." He encouraged the people to fan out the Soviet Union. Others will persevere. They will make the through West Germany, rather than settle in small best of it and pray that better days are ahead for them in communities. West Germany. If it cannot be their home, perhaps it will be Many Germans in Russia have dreamed about Germany. To the home of their children and grandchildren. be in West Germany means to be free and at home at last. It was a moving experience to visit Unna Massen, an arrival Many find it isn't quite what they dream after they have center for new immigrants. We saw lines of people waiting been there for some time. Some become disappointed and to report their arrival, waiting to receive financial help, return to the Soviet Union. The others who remain and are waiting for room assignments, waiting for vouchers that determined will succeed, for they are survivors would give them supplies to furnish their bedrooms and Heimat — for these people it is not the land of their birth kitchens. We saw one bedroom with three bunk-beds and a but the land where they and their children will find freedom table in the comer where four grown men ate their lunch. of religion and fulfillment of life. For them these can be The wife/mother was cooking a meal on a two-burner found only in West Germany. Yes, all of these Germans hotplate in a common kitchen down the hall. These men from Russia have a story to tell and part of that story is the spoke of waiting and boredom. They wanted to get on with search for their homeland. their lives, but papers had to be processed and then they Editor's Note: Tina Block Ediger works in the Development Office of Prairie View, a mental health center in Newton, Kansas.

53 RUSSIAN GERMANS BETWEEN THE BLACK SWASTIKA AND THE RED STAR

Arthur Janke Thank you for the introduction. I should say to all of you, and the rest of the privileges from Catherine n. That's why "Good day, Guten Tag, or even Zdravstvujte!" I apologize we are the dumbest. to you for my West Virginian pronunciation. I have been Now let me return to events that were detrimental or telling everyone I am from West Virginia. They ask me, historically important to all of us assembled here. When I "What part?" I tell them it is to the east of Richmond. How was given the subject, I debated how to approach it since far? About 5,000 miles. And where would that be, in we have basically three different groups with three different Pennsylvania? No, a little bit farther. interests: three different generations over here in respect We, the people of this conference, assemble under the with immigration to the United States. I am one of those name of Germans from Russia and not by accident. last ones who came to the United States after WW II. There Germans from Russia might not be the shortest or the is a group of you here that came between the wars, and one simplest name for a group of people but we have to admit that came a very long time ago. It was very hard for me to that we are neither Germans nor Russians. In Russia they assemble material in such a way that it would be interesting called us "nemtsy," which means "mutes; those who cannot to all of you. But I will try to bring the points out that are speak, who have problems with language." In Poland they common to us because we are "Russian Germans" or call us "Szwab" or "Keszubin." In France they call us "Germans from Russia." "Allemaine." In the United States, it is very simple: Russia was basically a cosmopolitan empire. In Russia "Nazis, communists, krauts, or the ones who caused World there were not only Russians but over 160 other Wars I and II, the warmongers." After World Wars I and II nationalities. And the Tsars of Russia, from Peter the Great the Allies called us "Russians." We were subject to on, all had quite a bit of German blood in them. So they deportation to Russia, the Soviet Union to our destruction. were basically not anti-German. Nicholas II, the last Tsar There have been four groups of Germans in Russia. The of Russia, was related to Wilhelm II, was cousin to the Baltic Group, the Volga Group, the Black Sea Group (or King of England and was nephew to the Emperor of Schwarzmeer Deutschen), and the Volhynian Deutsch. The Austria. At the end of the last century the cosmopolitan Baltic Group was separated from the family of Russian state of Russia declared itself "Protector of Orthodoxy," of Germans in 1922 by treaty when the Baltic States were the Greek Orthodox Church and "Protector of Slavic declared independent from Russia. The Volga Germans People." Russia could not keep away from the turmoil of were the most populous with the most territory, most Europe, and especially the Balkans, the life interest of privileges and the richest. The Black Sea Germans were Germany and Austria. Russia needed access from the Black considered as martyrs. The Volhynian Germans were the Sea into the Mediterranean and to the Balkans. Germany smallest group by their number and the smallest group needed the path through the Balkans into Turkey and the territorially. They were economically the poorest, most Middle East, Neither one was going to give. Slavic people unfortunate politically and most vulnerable from the in the Balkans demanded protection of the Tsar from the strategic point of view. On top of that, we are called "the Germans. Clash was inevitable. Therefore, the Tsar of dumbest" because we are the poorest. I say "We," because I Russia and his Church spared no means of support to all belong to them. World War I and World War II hit us first kinds of national unrest in the Balkans, the Slavs and the and harder than anyone else. Our ancestors came to Orthodox Church. On the other side of the border, ad- Volhynia on their own. There was no Catherine II behind vocates of great Germany, extreme nationalists who later us, to provide for us. Some of our ancestors came in on produced the Nazi party, promoted the idea of wheelbarrows. They bought their land, every foot of it, consolidation of all German people living outside of while Volga Germans and Black Sea Germans received Germany. That was already done in 1880, so Hitler's idea their land wasn't new.

54 In pursuing this policy, the Germanophile looked for colonists in Russia had been sent out along the strategic sympathizers in the German colonies in Russia. These points of Russia and were ready to provide the approaching German nationalists provided funds for German schools in Germans with a basis for artillery installations and Russia and for training the teachers and ministers and clergy triangulation points so German artillery could be accurate. in exchange for support of German policy, trying to They (the extremists) did not say that the German artillery establish a foothold in our grandfathers' minds. But their was accurate anyway and did not depend upon spies. The efforts had little support among the German colonies. At colonists were not spotting for the Germans or passing on that time, our ancestors didn't consider themselves information to the enemy. "Deutsch." There was no such thing as "Deutschland" when The Volga River is a river of the German Kaiser. The people came from Germany into the Volga area. There was German Kaiser intended to build a castle on the Volga no such thing as "Deutschland" when people came to the River: The Castle of the Niebelungen, if you remember this Black Sea area, and to the Dnieper River. There was only song. The communists had to be murdered before they Schwabia, Schwabenland, Hessen, Lombardia, could take over Russia. As the front neared Volhynia, the Brandenburg, Prussia, etc. There was no "Deutschland," so screams of those "KKK" were so loud that it was dangerous there was no "Wie Deutschen." My grandfather didn't for both sides when hostilities broke out. So authorities consider himself "Deutsch." He considered himself Koszub. took measures to move the Germans to the safest place to Only later, after creation of the German Empire with a prevent hostilities. You also hear about Rasputin, that monk Prussian King in 1871 did "Deutschland" come to who was so influential in the Russian empire. He was the existence- That was after our ancestors came to Russia. We one who screamed, "Kill the Krauts, Kill the Swabs!" The spoke "Deutsch" only after World War II. Before, we spoke government issued an order to evacuate the Volhynians to a Swabisch, Hessisch, Sachsisch, Plattdeutsch. There was no distant district of the Volga. They found there shelter and "Deutschland," no "Deutschesprache." So you see, the sympathy. mighty powers of Europe, the empire of Austria-Hungary At this point I must point out that the other residents of clashed and struggled for our support. And they stirred up Volhynia and/or the western part of Russia, were also unrest among our ancestors. Many of our ancestors fell removed before the oncoming German army. Railroad, victim to the propaganda of the nationalist "Deutsch" technical personnel, Polish people, intelligentsia were all extremists that 100 years later became known as "Nazi's." moved with us. I say us: my parents, my grandfather. They As the world broke up in 1914, the antagonistic forces on were all removed from in front of the oncoming German both sides played the highest on the sentiments of public forces. So it was not exclusively anti-German action, as opinion. In Russia, their success was minimal. Neither the those respectful gentlemen from Germany, like Kuhn and communists nor the public was swayed one way or the Leuck and Karasek were writing and propagandizing. It other, for the Germans or against the Germans. But in was not exactly anti-German. The relocation ordinance only Germany, chauvinism picked up momentum. Kaiser partially affected the Black Sea Germans. The ones who Wilhelm II declared that the Slavic people were born to ser- had large land holdings or big farms were permitted to stay. vitude. They were considered the mainstays and suppliers of the I apologize for my trembling voice. I lost it while serving in Russian army, not the destruction of Russia. They had the the artillery. I had to communicate with 36 guns, and I had best horses of Russia and they supplied more grain and to yell. meat for the Russian Army. Therefore they were left sitting The average German, the "Reichsdeutsche," began to there on their farms. The Volga Germans were not affected think of himself as the supreme being. at all. Neither were the Germans of the Baltic States. Those The defeat on the front in Russia has been attributed to Germans were the generals in the Russian army. They led activities of the fifth column. The fear of German colonists the German army. The Germans from the Baltic States were spying for Germany increased. Rumors were spread by the the privileged group in Russia. They were in the extremists-nationalists of Russia, something similar to your government. So once again I want to contradict Leuck and KKK over here. They spread the rumors that the German Karasek and Kuhn, who later

55 became SS generals. There was no general antagonism or even or regain their lost territories. When the opportune hate of Germans in Russia. time arrived in 1939, by the agreement between Hitler and After four years of life in exile the Volhynians returned Stalin, Poland ceased to exist. The downfall of Poland to their land. They came back long before the war was over. provoked a more devastating, bloody and hateful conflict During the German occupation they returned to Volhynia. It than the world could ever have imagined. shows you that there was no planned anti-German For Russia, the years of 1917-1921 were years of campaign by the government to destroy them. It was only revolution, occupation and banditry. The majority of the temporary action. My father returned to Zhitomir before the German colonists living in the territory maintained Germans occupied it during the time of the provisional neutrality to all combatants, tending to their fields and to government. I was born in Zhitomir just before the their farms. Only here and there individual colonists took Germans came in. up arms to protect their property from the ravaging bands in The Great War ended with celebrations in the halls of the Ukraine and on the Volga. When the oustered German Versailles. The victorious allies danced while our frustrated forces retreated from the Ukraine and the Don areas, only a body languished. In all practicality, the Versailles Treaty few colonists took to the road back west. The majority was a dictate upon war-ravaged Central and Eastern remained where they lived. That was their homeland. Europe. It also created a League of Nations, a debating In all fairness, it must be admitted that revolution brought a society for vindictive victors. That "War to End All Wars," new prosperity to farmers all across the Soviet Union. I as American President Woodrow Wilson declared, created know, you will say, "Yes, how about the famine?" Yes, more problems than it solved. First, it created a troublesome there was famine, and a terrible one but that was the period state of Poland. Second, it laid the basis for communistic before everything settled down. This prosperity was due to states led by the Bolsheviks. At the helm of the Polish State the redistribution of land after the revolution. Many farmers stood ambitious, arrogant leaders with insatiable appetites received more land after the revolution than they had ever for territorial expansion. These politicians ignored the had before, only in a couple of years to be deprived of this boundaries set by the Treaty of Versailles, and with the by "Indian giving." Being allowed to work gave immense blessing of the Allies, overran their neighbors. Poland prosperity to the Germans in Volhynia and the Black Sea acquired additional territories against the will of the and Volga for the next 8 years. German Colonies became victorious Allies of Versailles. It took big chunks of the show-place of farming for both officials and Russian territory from Volhynia, took more from Germany, took farmers alike. some from Czechoslovakia, and took a big chunk of land The Soviet Union and Germany, after World War I, had from Soviet Russia. The final treaty between the Soviets many things in common. Both were robbed of territory and and the Poles in 1920 made Poland a multi-national state in both were laying in ruins and international isolation. It was which Poles were considered a dominant nationality but a only natural for them to attempt to join together to alleviate minority. Under this treaty Volhynia was divided into two common hardships. The echo of victors celebrating still in parts. One part is called today West Volhynia, or as some of Versailles reverberated in the halls when the Soviets and us know it today, Polish Volhynia. The other is East Germans got together in Rapallo, Italy, and concluded a Volhynia, or Soviet Volhynia. pact called the Rapallo Treaty. This 1922 treaty was a treaty I would say from here on that in the long run, the West of friendship, trade, technical assistance, and military Volhynians had better luck than the East Volhynians. But cooperation. German technicians and engineers assisted this is neither here nor there. For 20 years, Volhynian Russia to rebuild destroyed industry, Wehrmacht officers Germans lived under two different systems of government. plowed the shores of the Volga. They test-fired new The Polish government was chauvinistic, but democratic. artillery; they tested new tanks, they flew the future The Bolsheviks were communists. Polish aggression Luftwaffe plane, the "Stuka," all in cooperation with the angered not only Germany, but most of all Russia, the Soviet Union. They trained the officers of the Russian Soviet State. The Germans and the Soviets waited almost general staff. They were the professors 20 years for an opportunity to get

56 of the military academy in Moscow. In return, the Soviets despair in postwar Germany. The German communist party sent farm products, lumber, raw materials and communist grew in size daily. Most vital of these plans, the Kremlin propaganda to Germany, to entice Germans to the so-called leaders prepared US Russian Germans to be the avant garde "permanent revolution" of communism. of communist revolution and to be leaders in the next With all this going on, the Russian Germans regained their German Russian communistic state. We were carefully and prestige. They were viewed by the local population as the diligently prepared to play the role to overthrow the German people who could do it all. The Germans were the Republic and to introduce a new system of communism. "Wunderkinder," the geniuses. The German language I know it, because my father was one of those trained for became the second language in Russia. They needed to read that purpose. My father was destined to go to Germany as a the German language to be able to read the technical representative of trade from the Soviet Union before he was manuals the Germans provided, and because Karl Marx arrested. Meantime, the German nationalists under the threat wrote "Das Kapital" in German. Many colonies in the south of communism supported national interests to resurrect the were declared national domains. The Volga area was great German Reich. They knew they needed to convince declared the National German Republic. In Volhynia, the the world that such a "worker's paradise" could be created. whole county was the National German County. In such They needed to convince a majority of us Germans that we national autonomous places, German was THE language. In were anti-Russian and that we wanted to return to Germany. courtrooms, in newspapers, in government, everything was They started to shuffle the figures, first in Poland. In in German. Poland, supposedly two million Germans were unsatisfied This is supposed to be a true story. A Ukrainian went to with the Polish government and wanted to return to Poland to a 'market. He walked around, came home, and his Germany. There were nine million Ukrainians the Russians neighbor asked him, "How was the market in Poland?" wanted returned. The Nazi leaders tried to count all the "Oh, so." "Did you see a lot of people there?" West Volhynians as those who wanted to return the territory "Yes, people. Behind those crowds you can see people." to Germany. Later they counted us East Volhynians into this He couldn't understand anything in the market, all was figure. And then they counted the Volga Germans into this crowds. figure as if they were in a territory of Poland. So they say The main language in schools in these areas was German. figures don't lie, but liars figure. That kind of propaganda Many colonists on the Volga, on the Black Sea area and in called for anti-propaganda measures of the Soviet Volhynia knew some Russian or Ukrainian but Russian was government. the second language. Colleges in the German colonies, The collectivisation of farms had gained full momentum by Dnepropetrovsk, on the Volga, were the admired schools. 1929-30. The possessions of the rich farmers were Many other nationalities tried to send their young people to confiscated. The rich farmer, the "kulak," was sent to the German schools in Russia. Siberia and his family followed him. That was not an act of Germany itself gained quite a bit of popularity and terror against only the German population. Germans, as the admiration. Dreamers dreamt of Soviet Germany, united richest farmers were affected the hardest not because they with Soviet Russia, into a great communistic state, in which were Germans, but because they were the richest. One terror Russian resources and manpower combined with German campaign after another followed. The more the Germans in technology and the German "how-to-do-it." The communist Germany screamed about the bad luck of our Russian Ger- party in Germany was secretly financed by the Soviets. mans, the more the terror raged in the Ukraine and the German communists were trained in Moscow schools to see Volga. The leaders of this campaign in Germany, Kuhn, that world communism would succeed sooner. The seed of Karasek and Leuck included a well-known gentleman. Dr. communist propaganda fell onto fertile ground and Karl Stumpp- He was also one of those who yelled and economic misery and screamed how bad we wanted to return to Germany. I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Karl Stumpp in Russia, in 1941. At that time, I wasn't aware of the facts, or of all the infor-

57 mation I am presenting to you now. At that time, I didn't Germans. And this led to the annihilation of the general know better; I knew only that we were persecuted. When I staff of the Red Army. Eighteen hundred generals of the prepared the material for this speech, I discovered those Red Army were put before the execution squads. Out of facts I just presented to you. The Nazis were steering our five hundred commissars, five hundred were shot. As you minds but without success. But Stalin didn't believe it. can see, they shot not only Germans, they shot their own Russia and Germany mutually tried to inspire revolution. communists. Stalin could do it; he had world opinion on his The Nazi propaganda, or "pro-Nazi" propaganda (it wasn't side. Hitler wanted to destroy the Red Army, and he did it. Nazi yet) steered the revolution the other way and clash He also destroyed the will of our people to stay in Russia. was inevitable. And who were the sufferers? We, the We were eager to get out of that "paradise of communism." Russian Germans. We got hit on both sides, And the Russian people wanted to get out of Stalin's yoke. The years 1933-34 were extremely remarkable years in the When Hitler attacked the Soviet Union, there was no Red history of mankind, and tragic for us Germans from Russia. Army to defend Stalin. Seven million Soviet citizens On the international scene appeared three political figures, I surrendered to Hitler in the first couple of months. They did call them great. You might differ but bear with me. These not love Hitler; they hated Stalin. I did the same. I did not were the figures who were destined to control the lives and betray my land, I fought against Stalin. I didn't fight for the future of billions of people. And they lasted for a Stalin. I fought against Stalin. decade and better. These were the three dictators of the Finally, we were occupied by the Germans, those Germans world. The first act of the newly elected President of the who cried so about our fate and our misery. They didn't United States, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, was to recognize want to know us. We were not allowed to join the German the Soviet Union. This was a time when Stalin was raging army. We were not allowed to wear the German uniform in in his terror. President Roosevelt recognized him as "Good German service. Our women were not allowed to date Uncle Joe." He recognized his brutality, not only to us German military personnel. SS men were not allowed to Germans, but to all Russian people. That was the seal of talk to Folksdeutschen frauen. SS officers were to be approval given to him, "Go ahead, kill them, send them to courtmartialed if caught having a relationship with a Siberia." And he did. Stalin needed the opinion of the world Polksdeutsche frau. That was the "Grosse Deutsche Reich" to steer his way, and Roosevelt provided him the that became so bitter in the name of our misery. We were opportunity. He recognized that there is nothing wrong with third-class Germans, not second class. terror in Russia. Now Stalin had world opinion on his side. As the fate of the Third Reich was sealed, we the He ignored everybody else. One terrible act followed Folksdeutschen, became "the Good Germans." They another. Collectivisation, deportation, starvation, needed our blood. They needed the salvation of the Nazi repression, and mass execution were the results of the state. They gave us the honor to join the SS, the elite Aryan United States recognition of the Soviet Union. This was all outfit. Not long before we were not Aryan at all. Now we done with the blessing of the United States of America. became the best Aryans. We were the mainstay of Leaderless Germany finally found a fuehrer to lead them to Himmler's Waffen SS. There were more Folksdeutschen in a decade of terror, national downfall and international the Waffen SS than Reichsdeutschen by the end of the war. disgrace. He embarked on unification of all Germans into a We were permitted, we were given the honor, to spill our single Reich. We Germans from Russia suddenly became blood for the Third Reich to save the Nazi state. the "Folksdeutschen," the children of the lost tribes. And For that we paid and paid dearly. Not many of us came the more the Nazis lamented about our misfortune, the through. Most of us were left on the fields of Normandy. harder Stalin came upon us. That was a press screw. On one And the mountains of Italy. In the plains of Hungary, and side, Stalin was pressing, and on the other, Hitler was on the Eastern Front. Not many are around here to even pressing. The common effort of this team led to the admit that they have been in the SS. I do it. I have the destruction of German settlements all over in Russia, an honor to have been captured seven times. I have the honor annihilation of millions of to have received a stay of execution three times. I have the honor to have been wounded three times. And finally I was

58 presented with the Iron Cross to put on my grave, because communists, against the tyranny of Stalin, against the evil they didn't know where I was to deliver it to me. empire that was finally termed "right." When the war ended, we fell into the hands of the NO! We need not be ashamed of our deeds. We should be Americans and the Allies. We take the blame of the Third proud of them. No Russian German was accused of treason Reich because we all were stamped with the "Blutgruppe against his country. No Russian German spied against his SS." To the Allies we were the criminals. In an American country. No Russian German ran from the battle-field. Be prison camp there was little difference between the white proud of your and your ancestors' deeds. star and the red star for us. We were considered Russian Thank you. citizens and subject to deportation. And there was no mercy Editor's Note: Arthur Janke was born in Zhitomir, on us. We were the criminals of the Third Reich. Volhynia, USSR, to German parents of good Prussian stock We Russian Germans need not hide our faces. We need not from Warsaw, Poland. He has attended and graduated from be ashamed of our past or our origins or our line of birth or schools in Zhitomir, USSR; Wuerzburg, Germany; Urbana, our deeds or the deeds of our fathers, for they were all hard- Illinois; working and honorable people. We need not confess of our Kent and Cleveland, Ohio; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. deeds or our past for we have contributed nothing to crime. He has taught in Urbana, Illinois; Kent and Akron, Ohio, as We have not betrayed our allegiance to our country of birth. well as in the USSR and Germany. He has also lectured at Our ancestors fought honorably against the enemies of the Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan. He has published articles Russian Tsar. Our ancestors took up arms with the White in professional journals in English, Ukrainian, and Polish. Army against the Bolsheviks and communists. Most here He served as an officer in the Red Army during World War assembled took up arms in the U.S. Army against the Nazi's n, taking part in the Polish and Finnish campaigns against (whom I supported), against the Japanese and the North Germany. He also served on the Eastern Front against Koreans and the Vietnamese communists, while others Stalin. He was decorated by both armies. He currently fought in the Red Army which fought our army. And as I resides in Uniontown, Ohio. said, I took up arms against the

59 RESEARCHING MY ANCESTORS FROM RASTADT, SOUTH RUSSIA Paul J. Polansky Schneller From your obituary and genealogical records and your I stand before you as a very proud member of the American excellent library I began to find some of my ancestors. Historical Society of Germans from Rus-sia. I say "Proud" Then I ran into a blank wall which I call the "Genealogical because very few societies have accomplished so much in Iron Curtain." From your records I got my family history such a short time. These accomplishments are quite back to the 1880's, and in some instances to the 1860's, but incredible. From building a permanent headquarters that is then there was a complete blank and an end to my the envy of most historical societies in America and abroad, genealogy. I have lived in Europe for the past 26 years. In to publishing a well-edited journal that reaches every part Europe I found the solution. After beating my head of our union and is collected in many countries of Europe, uselessly against the genealogical iron curtain that the this society takes a back seat to no one. Therefore it is with archivists and bureaucrats throw up around the records in a bit of trepidation that I ask you to do a bit more to climb Moscow, I went to the Heimatortskartei in Stuttgart, in one step higher and demonstrate to all those other societies 1976. There I found my first address for a man with my that we are the leaders in our field, that we are a historical grandmother's maiden name of Redler. He had returned to society that is proud of our name, and above all, that we are West Germany from her native village in Russia. The a historical society that will go that extra mile to save our Heimatortskartei is a refugee organization established heritage. shortly after World War II to reunite families who became As I explain I have conducted my research and the dispersed during and after the war. They have a department sources I have used to obtain my information on the village for every country where Germans lived before the war. project of Rastadt, South Russia, I want you to contemplate Each department has the addresses today for almost every how this society can do the same on a greater scale to save German who lived in an Eastern European country before a large part of our historical heritage that is about to the war. Since my grandmother was from Rastadt, Odessa disappear forever. It will be irretrievably lost if we do not Region, I got all the addresses for people from that village. do something about it quickly. The Heimatortskartei not only has addresses for these I live in Europe and most of my time is spent working in Germans from Russia living today in West Germany, but the archives of Eastern Europe and in interviewing those also those still living in different areas. They also have Germans who are returning from what we call the "Iron addresses of those who emigrated to Canada, South Curtain Countries." I am a member of the American America and the United States after the war. I started this in Historical Society of Germans from Russia because my 1976, and in my exuberance selected the first German on maternal grandmother was born in Rastadt, near the Black the list who had my grandmother's name and rushed off to Sea. Although her American neighbors might not have find him. The address turned out to be in a "slum" district understood her cultural background, she was very proud of of Mannheim. I was given no telephone number so my wife it and told her grandchildren her stories of Russia, her and I drove to the address. We climbed a flight of wooden family and her people. At the time it was a bit confusing to stairs to a door that had no name on it. A small, thin old hear my' grandmother say that she was from Russia, then man, half-stooped and holding a cane answered the door. tell us stories about Germans. Perhaps it was this confusion When I asked if he was Herr Redler, he looked at me with that made me remember those stories and when the op- the saddest eyes I have ever seen. He started to shake as he portunity came, to leam more about these Germans from stood there. His wife came up from behind him and looked Russia, I joined for the same reason that most of you did: at us with a blank face. I blurted out, "I am your cousin we want to leam more about our ancestors. It is because this from Nebraska." Actually I am from Iowa but I knew the society holds out the hope of learning more about those last contact we had with the Redlers in Russia was in the ancestors that I am a member. 1930s, from Nebraska. Herr Redler took my hand and cried. He ushered us into his small apartment

60 which had little furniture. However, in my haste to find my The most difficult part of interviewing these Germans from first German from Russia I had forgotten to find a translator Russia is to gain their confidence, Most were born during a to assist us. I do not speak German well and for the next reign of terror. All had relatives taken away never to be twenty minutes Herr Redler and I struggled to seen again, during the terrors and famines of the 1920s and communicate. In desperation, I drew out my family tree for 1930s. Many were taken away because they wrote letters to him. He added to it to show how we were related. relatives in America, asking for help, food, or money. His wife then left to find someone next door who spoke When local Soviet officials learned of these letters, they English. She returned with a huge German woman who arrested the writer who usually disappeared for good. The immediately verbally attacked us for bothering this old ex-mayor often can break down barriers to interviewing couple. She wanted to see our papers, to see what these people and can often tell you where the village's permission we had to interview them. Despite my pleas that church books are located. The archivists in Moscow told we were related and only wanted to know family history, me that my village church books had been destroyed during this self-appointed guardian of shot-putter proportions the war. When I found the last mayor of Rastadt, he told me shoved us toward the door. It would be an exaggeration to that some had been burned in 1938 when the Reds looted say that I was thrown down three flights of stairs by this the village. He had managed to save many of the books Amazon, but it was not far from it. When I contacted Herr himself, and took them with him when he went to a refugee Redler months later with the help of a proper translator, I camp in Poland, in 1944. Unfortunately, the books were learned why his neighbor was so anxious to protect him and taken from him there. I heard many similar stories from his wife. The tragic story began in 1945 when he escaped mayors of German villages in Russia and especially from from Russia with his wife and only son. They walked 2,000 mayors of German villages in Bukovina. But church books kilometers, miraculously reaching the Western sector and seem to have lives of their own, and for whatever reason, hiding in the same apartment where I found them. The have a habit of surviving. Because so many of the stories Americans had captured their 17-year old son on the streets told of books being confiscated in Poland during the War, I of Mannheim and had handed him over to the Soviets. The went to Poland to search for the books. Redlers did not know of "Operation Keelhaul," which the I found the church books for Arbora, Bukovina and Rastadt, Allies put into effect to appease the Soviets. In spite of the South Russia in the Sates Archives in Posen, western rules of the Geneva Convention, they handed over any Poland. I learned from a Polish genealogist who helped me Germans born in Russia. From 1945 until I found them in that these books are not officially in the catalogs of Posen, 1976, the Redlers stayed in hiding, venturing out only to do and that many similar books lie in the basement of this odd jobs. They never again trusted anyone except their archive. Technically the books belong to the Soviet Union. neighbors who had vowed to protect them. They never If they were cataloged, the Soviet Union would have the asked where I got their address. It took years for them to right to demand their return. The East Germans in Leipzig accept me as a relative. Until their deaths a few years ago, and the West Germans in Regensburg also have many they never lost their fear and distrust of almost everyone. church books from Eastern Europe, Russia and Romania, Their only moment of happiness came in the early 1980s but they have cataloged them. But they also have laid legal when another Rastadter returning from the Soviet Union claim to them because the contents are records about Ger- brought them a message from their son. He was alive and man families. married, living in Central Asia. Since I was doing the village project for Rastadt in I spent most of the next four years tracking down all those addition to my own genealogy, I wanted to interview Rastadters who had returned or were returning from Russia. everyone from that village. I immediately discovered that it They were not difficult to find once I located one, because was a waste of time to try to get information from those they always found each other and stayed in contact. I traced born or educated after World War I. They are the the last mayor, several of the last school teachers and all the generation who were told nothing. They are the generation Redlers who were related to me. who fear the most. They are the generation upon whom Stalin had the most influence. Their parents, on the other hand,

61 are the real keepers of our epic tales, our culture, our returned to the beginning and told me of the Relder's epic history, and our oral tradition. They still remember life trip to Russia in 1808. Two brothers and a sister emigrated before Stalin. They still remember the times when they with their families. One of the brothers rode a small white were free to talk without fear, to hear the old family and pony while the others walked. They first went to Karlsruhe, village tales. They also know that they are about to die and where they had a hard first winter. One of the brothers for the first time in almost seventy years they want to tell found life in Russia too difficult and left to return to someone before it is too late. Do not waste your time on Germany. He left in the middle of the night and was later anyone else. Find these old people, these old timers before thought to have perished. it is too late! How often have I sat in their homes in West Frau Eberle never heard of the Stumpp, Height, or Keller Germany with their own children (now mostly in their 50s books where many of these details are confirmed. She and 60s) hearing with me these stories for the first time. knew only the oral histories that her family passed on to her Often these middle-aged children meekly ask why they before World War I. From Frau Eberle I learned about were never told these stories of their ancestors' journeys to every single Redler descendant from 1808 to the present Russia. The answer is always, "We did not want you to day. I also heard all the colorful gossip of Rastadt and some know anything. We did not want you to know so you would of the stories are quite bawdy. not get into trouble with the police." But for every old timer like Frau Eberle there are many I told you about Herr Redler, whom I found in more who were born later and still live in fear. When I Mannheim. He was born in 1912, but knew very little of started my Rastadter project, and long before I met Frau the old histories. He was only five years old when the Eberle, I started to visit Rastadters who emigrated from revolution started and the first men in Rastadt were lined up Russia to Canada and the United States. These were the against the wall and shot. But the ex-mayor of Rastadt soldiers who fought in World War II. I knew their names introduced me to a much older woman named Eberle. She from the Heimatorkskartei in Stuttgart and I had their war was born just before the turn of the century and knew records from the Berlin Documentation Center. I tracked almost everything about Rastadt. She was also born a Red- them to Saskatchewan, North Dakota and to the Eastern ler. When I first met her, she had been out of Russia only a Seaboard of the United States. Many were still hiding and few years. She had received permission to join her two fearful, but they were all in contact with each other. As I daughters and their families who had managed to escape left one place to go on to the next, a telephone call would five years before her. Her daughters were delightful but precede me to warn the next person that I was coming. No showed the scars of having worked for many years as one believed I was just doing a village project on Rastadt or lumberjacks in the forests of Siberia. Each was missing that I was trying to locate my so-called Redler cousins. I fingers from one hand. At first they were very protective of did not understand until I called one to whom I had written their ancient mother who had been through so much. After several times. He had never answered my letters, so I told I broke the ice by telling them of the letter which my him that I would be there the next day at 3:00 pm to Redler cousins in Nebraska had received in the 1920s, old interview him. The next day he was waiting for me, Mrs. Eberle told me everything. The cousins in Rastadt surrounded by his wife and children. They had their bags asked for money because they were starving to death. The packed. They told me they knew this day would come Redlers in Nebraska passed the hat among their relatives sooner or later, and they were ready to surrender. I did not and collected over $500.00. Frau Eberle began by telling ask him what happened during the war, but many pieces me how Hieronymus Redler came to write the letter to started to fall into place. I left him a broken man and my Nebraska. He had lost two children to starvation by the village project "on hold." I knew I could never publish my time he had written the letter. Hieronymus Redler did research while this generation was still living. receive the money from Nebraska but was taken away and Since then I have confined my interviews and activities never seen again when the local Soviet authorities learned to the old timers still returning from the Soviet Union. They of it. The village rumor was that he had been shot. come with their stories of woe and grief, still leaving loved She told me many stories of horror as if to get them out ones behind. But they of her system. Once that was done, she

62 also come with the stories of their ancestors and those epic history and culture which these people bring with them. As tales of pioneering. . a consultant to the German Research Council, I know there Our ancestors who came to America came with their is no money or interest at this time to help save our own tales of journeys across the sea to the United States, heritage. There will not be until people and organizations Canada and South America. They tell of the soddies and like our own AHSGR lead the way and call attention to the planting the wheat which they brought from Russia. They problem. I believe that we will be successful and lead the tell of their neighbors and fighting to be accepted in this way to demonstrate that there is a culture and heritage and new land. They tell of their triumphs and defeats. This is genealogy worth saving, and that the West German the heritage we have in the Americas. But left behind in government will also help. Russia is a great part of our earlier culture and heritage. In In November I wrote to Ruth Amen, pleading for her spite of wars and revolutions, our culture and heritage of support and for that of the Society to save those German family oral histories and genealogy has survived. Stalin oral histories for which our relatives sacrificed so much. I almost succeeded in eradicating it from living memory, for promised my own support in the form of a donation of there is only one generation remaining in Russia which $1,000.00 if this Society would accept the challenge of remembers our stories. This generation is on the brink of taking on this historical project. Tonight I would like to leaving us and talking with them the last bits and pieces of hand in my contribution and hope that all of you here will the culture, heritage and genealogy which link us with our also help to make this project successful. real past. Miss Amen, because I have come from Europe, I have The West German government is today paying only British Pounds Sterling. Tonight I would like to thousands of millions of dollars to bring home these present to you this check for 640 British Pounds, the Germans from Russia, in spite of opposition in from some equivalent of 1,000 U.S. dollars, to assist the fund drive German citizens. The West German government is housing which I hope will enable us to meet our obligation to add them and re-educating them how to cope in a modern these missing records to our ever-growing heritage. society. But the West German government is making no attempt to save the

Visit the 1990 Convention in Sacramento!

63 Report of the Executive Director Miss Ruth M. Amen

My report to this convention will be a recap of my years with the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia. I returned to Lincoln from a position in New York City in the fall of 1968 to learn that a society for Germans from Russia had been organized. My father, who was then 92 years of age, was already a member. Within a few days I heard from AHSGR's founder, David J. Miller of Greeley, Colorado, asking me to join and to serve on the board. I accepted his invitation and have been associated with AHSGR ever since. I flew to Denver to attend my first board meeting in January, 1969. That weekend the Denver area people had a meeting which I attended. Also there from Lincoln were Delores K. Schwartz and her mother. The three of us were given a charge — to go home and organize the first chapter of the Society. This we did, enlisting the support of Ed Schwartzkopf, Ralph Giebelhaus and others. Some of you know that chapters don't just happen. My sister, Alice Heinz, was chapter organization chairperson for a number of years and with the cooperation of local members, through correspondence organized a number of chapters like Northern Colorado, Greater Seattle, Oregon, and Denver Metropolitan. I traveled to many locations to meet with groups of members to organize Columbia Basin, Golden Wheat, Melon Valley, Nebraska Panhandle, North Star of Minnesota, Olympic Peninsula, and others. It isn't easy to organize and some groups struggle to stay alive. But it is so in any organization. David Miller was president of AHSGR from 1968-73, after which I was president for 5 years. Like Dave, I said 5 years was enough, but agreed to stay on as Executive Director. I have been in that position since 1978, much of that time at no salary. When I became president in 1973,1 traveled to Greeley and Jake Sinner went by truck to move the files, office records and an addressograph that weighed tons, to set up an office at 615 "D" Street. The Lincoln Chapter rented that house to use as an office and museum. We moved them out of the back bedroom and that 10 x 12 room was all the international office we had. It held a used typewriter desk with the machine, a student desk and another table. We had one unpaid staff member, yours truly, and lots of volunteer help. The addressograph went to the basement and with the help of folding tables we could get out a mailing. We even had board meetings there. Several years later the house at 631 "D" Street became vacant and we moved where we had 3 rooms. I learned to know Jo Ann Kuhr and when she came to inquire about a job, I told her we couldn't afford her. But thanks to the generosity of members, we worked out a schedule. It has always been so in acquiring staff and all who work for AHSGR understand that while we have special assignments, we will be called on to help wherever needed. When books had to be packed up to send to this hotel everyone pitched in along with several volunteers. In time it was decided that international headquarters would be located permanently in Lincoln. A committee decided on the location you toured on Wednesday afternoon. So we moved the office again to 1139 South 7th, so we could clear the land for our headquarters building. I've never forgotten that Henry Heckman came up with the idea of immigrant plaques. They helped greatly in paying for that building. We moved in in January, 1983, with the building paid for. We have always operated that way. We pay all bills upon receipt. We don't owe anyone a cent. That's the Russian German way. These annual meetings — this is the 20th — have been great strength building events. We had 70 registrations at the first one in 1970. The Lincoln Chapter took charge of the banquet that year, at which Dr. Joseph Height spoke. Dave asked me if we could have the convention in Lincoln in 1971. We took the challenge. Since then I have been actively involved in the planning of every convention. To do this I have traveled to every convention site to become familiar with the facility the local chapter selected. We then worked together to plan the special programs and selection of speakers. It has been challenging, interesting and fun.

64 But that isn't all in the life of the Executive Director. The management of the headquarters and its staff, meeting the people, both members and non-members, helping to plan board meetings, watching expenses — even having to say "no" at times — speaking to many groups, service clubs, genealogical societies both in-town and out, visiting chapters, keeping in touch with their presidents in the hope they will share important information with all their members, doing layout of Newsletters, checking with the printer on publications — all of them being prepared by headquarters staff— please know we haven't had an editor for several years. Simply stated, the Executive Director is not working a forty hour week. There have been six days a week at the office and work at home at night. Yes, you eat, drink and sleep AHSGR. And you thank God for all the members and chapters who are so helpful. You weep and then receive a letter of appreciation for all you and the staff are doing to make AHSGR a growing organization. And you look back at the 21 years knowing that much has been accomplished and that there is much more that we can do. Thank you.

Report of the International Secretary Elaine Wilcox

Mr. President, Convention Chairpersons, Executive Director and fellow members: The Board of Directors has held four meetings since the last report to the members. This organization, by virtue of the inclusion of "Historical" in its name, devotes much time to the past. The Board of Directors, however, must look into the future to determine present and future methods of preserving this history. This Board has been presented with proposals for financial support of projects, for preservation of objects, publication of books and programs of research. The debate over the gathering of "things" continues, as does the debate over decentralization and establishment of a computer network in which each region or chapter maintains its own records on its own computer, linked with those of other regions or chapters. At the first meeting held in Milwaukee, the Board received the resignations of two members. These vacancies were filled at the October meeting in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Arnold Schroeder and Ralph Ruff. Two additional meetings in the Board Room at the Headquarters Building were held in May and July, immediately prior to this convention. The discussions about gathering information from ethnic Germans emigrating from Russia resulted in a request to the Foundation for $2,500.00 to fund the implementation of a feasibility study. The election process was reviewed, and the Nominations Committee was charged to use the recommendations for proportional regional representation in selection of a slate. The bylaws of the newly organized Central Coast Chapter were approved and this Chapter was welcomed to the organization. Elizabeth Wilson was selected as Executive Director effective August 1, 1989. The Board of Directors has accepted plans for the Convention in Sacramento, California, July 23 - 29,1990, and in Chicago, Illinois, in 1991. The Board would now welcome Convention invitations for 1992 and beyond. Members of the Board of Directors serve without compensation and value all constructive comments from their fellow members.

65 Report of the International Treasurer Mr. Jake Sinner

The balance sheet as of December 31, 1988, capitulation report: Our current total assets: $509,098.25 Furniture, fixtures, equipment, vehicles, net accumulation of appreciation: $ 49,964.25 leaving a balance of: 12,265.44 Collections, archives and library cataloging: 23,339.05 Total Assets: $544,702.74

Total current liabilities: $ 92,858.55 Other liabilities deferred, revenue, life memberships: 16,200.00 Total liabilities: $109,058.55 Fund balance: 435,644.19

Total liabilities and fund balance: $544,702.44 Under the statement of activities for the period ending December 31, 1988, total revenue: $222,985.58 Excess of revenues over expenses: 16,955.79

66 Finance Committee Report JohnJ. Kisner

The members of the Finance Committee are: Henry Grenemeier, Jake Sinner, Lydia Jesse, Rosemary Larson, Albert Miller, Raymond Pfau, Robert Smith and John Kisner, Chairman. Our first assignment was to work up a budget for 1989. After correspondence and meetings prior to the fall Board meeting, we were able to project a budget balance for 1989. A review of that budget for the first six months, just prior to this convention, shows that based on the financial report we have come very close to the projected figures for the six months. We were able to finish 1988 under budget. We have been able to accomplish this due only to our members' generous donations. We will continue to do so only with your continued support. The majority of the finance committee has not been happy with the details of the financial reports and we are in the process of a two-pronged approach to improve this. First, we are developing guidelines for the handling and reporting of revenues. Second, we are working toward doing most of our accounting in-house by computer. This brings me to the next item. As you may have heard, our present computer has crashed and with it we have lost part of our data. We will need to replace this and reprogram the lost data. The Foundation has again come to our rescue and authorized a contribution so we can purchase the necessary computer and hardware. This board has recommended that the President appoint an Ad Hoc committee to review the needs of the Society and with the input of the staff, purchase what will meet our needs, The majority of the committee hopes that we can have our own on-site accounting and recommends that the Board hire a certified public accounting firm before the end of the year to review, audit and file the necessary tax reports. To accomplish this by a committee of the membership is too burdensome, both physically and financially. An organization our size needs and should have the services of a C.P.A. audit and review of our finances and accounting procedures. Finally, this committee in conjunction with the Historical Research Committee, has committed to sending someone on a fact- finding trip to Germany to study the feasibility of the Aussiedler program. I am sure you will hear more about this later. We have already raised in excess of $1,400.00, plus the generous grant from the Foundation. We hope to raise the balance of these funds in the very near future to carry out the first phase of this project. I would like to make a few personal comments now that I have served six years and am therefore leaving the Board: I have tried hard to bring our accounting and financial reporting into generally accepted standards for practices, procedures, and reporting for non-profit corporations. While we have made some progress, we have not yet reached that goal. I am sorry to leave the board before we have completed that goal. I realize that I have at times pushed hard and have been very critical. For that I do not apologize; I apologize only for not doing more. Last year my report was not what everyone wanted to hear, and it was not included in the Journal. I hope that this year's report will appear in the Journal because I feel it is important for the members to know what is happening within their Society.

67 Editorial Committee Report Dr. Nancy B. Holland

Good News! Good News! More books are coming! At this meeting of the convention, I have to report to you that the Beratz translation, the one you've been waiting for, the classical historical account of the founding of the Volga colonies in Russia, is one-third complete. You have a chance to share in the work of that publication by buying a raffle ticket. All the proceeds from the beautiful quilt raffle will be donated to completing that book. It won't be long! Also, we have in the works the anthology of seminal articles on the Germans from Russia, being prepared by Dr. Timothy Kloberdanz, who probably should tell us how much longer we will have to wait for that himself, (ed. note: from the audience: "Soon!") One other wonderful book will be coming out, we hope by the end of 1990, in time for your Christmas giving: another novel by Mela Meisner Lindsay, who wrote the beloved book The White Lamb. I'm sure Tante Mela is not here; she's autographing copies in the bookstore probably at this moment. But we're hoping to prepare a companion novel, a story of a little German- Russian boy, for your reading pleasure soon.

Folklore Committee Report Ruth Preehling

The members of the 1988-1989 Folklore Committee are; Gerhard Buhr, Hannah Deines, Irmgard Ellingson, Reuben Goertz, Sally Hieb, Tim Kloberdanz, Marian Meisinger, Al Reiber, Lawrence Weigel and Ruth Freehling, Chairman. This committee's goals for the past year were: 1. To continue the publishing of the "Folklore Forum" in the Journal^ as well as Lawrence Weigel's "We Sing Our History." 2. To initiate an "Every AHSGR Member Folklore Solicitation Program," which is to be an ongoing endeavor; and have each chapter send in the name and address of its Folklore Chairman. 3. To engage two speakers for the Folklore Symposium at our Society's convention this summer. We have made the following progress: 1. The "Folklore Forum" copy failed to meet publication requirements for the Spring issue of the Journal. However, with the necessary changes and information on the articles originally submitted, the "Forum" was re-submitted for publication in the Summer issue. Lawrence Weigel's "We Sing Our History" was published in the Winter, 1988, and Spring, 1989, issues of the Journal. 2. The April, 1989, Newsletter included the "Every Member Folklore Solicitation Form" and its accompanying letter. A letter was mailed to all Chapter Presidents in February, alerting them to this effort as well as seeking their help and asking for the names and addresses of their chapter Folklore Chairmen. A list of the Chapter Folklore Chairmen has also been made. 3. We engaged two speakers for the Folklore Symposium at our 1989 convention: Victor Carl Priesen (whom Tim Kloberdanz obtained for us) and our own Lawrence Weigel. Dr. Priesen's topic is entitled "Mennonite Plautdietsch Folklore of Western Canada and the American Midwest," and Mr. Weigel's is "Humor, a Good Medicine." Also I take this opportunity to thank my committee members, our Folklore Symposium speakers and all others who helped promote the preservation of the folklore of our people.

68 Genealogy Committee Report Allyn Brosz, Co-Chair

Genealogy is certainly one of the core activities in this society, and it tells us that we are indeed linked to this grand group of people called "Germans from Russia." I believe that when we know that, it gives us the confidence to look forward to the future, and to believe that we can accomplish anything if we understand our roots. The Genealogy Committee of the Board of Directors this year included Delbert Amen and me as co-chairs. Arthur Flegel, of Menlo Park, California, and Laurin Wilhelm of Lawrence, Kansas, were additional board members of the committee. In addition, this year the committee asked President Metzler to recognize additional AHSGR members around the country who are doing exciting and helpful genealogical research to the benefit of our members. These include: Margaret Freeman, Santa Monica, California (the immediate Past Chair of the Genealogy Committee) Gerda Walker and Dr. Jacob Lebsack, both of Denver, Colorado Ron Neuman, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Mrs. Louise Potter, Toppenish, Washington Curt Renz, Ames, Iowa Tony Schwan, Phoenix, Arizona Marianne Wheeler, Yukon, Oklahoma These people were recognized for their genealogical research. They were asked to assist the committee because the Genealogy Committee exercises a broad outreach function, seeking to assist people with their genealogical research. The Committee wishes to acknowledge the research activities of all AHSGR members. We regret we do not have time to tell you about all the exciting genealogy research that is going on. Very briefly, I would like to review the goals that the Committee adopted at the October, 1988 meeting of the Board of Directors. First, we recognized the need to establish a communications network among the genealogy committees in the local chapters. I'm pleased to report that we were able to initiate that project at a meeting yesterday afternoon, (ed note: July 28,1989) We hope to publish a newsletter to communicate to AHSGR members interested in genealogy what's happening, what's available, and what resources would be helpful. Second, we recognize the need to create and distribute a comprehensive directory of researchers skilled in various aspects of the genealogy of Germans from Russia. We will continue to work on that project this year and publish information in the genealogy newsletter. The Genealogy Committee is responsible for organizing a genealogy symposium program for the 1989 AHSGR convention here in Lincoln. Dr. William Wiest, of Portland, Oregon, and Mr. William Scheinnan, of Overland Park, Kansas, spoke yesterday morning, and many of you attended. The Committee has agreed to prepare and distribute genealogical research guides and fact sheets. Committee members have developed some and will solicit inputs for others. The Committee also hopes to encourage wider awareness and use of computers for genealogical research and communication. You will hear more about that at the Sacramento Convention in 1990. I want to close with a challenge to each of you. We've heard many speeches at this convention about the Aussiedlers coming to western Europe from the Soviet Union. If that potential is realized, if we can gain access to Soviet Archives under "perestroika" and "glasnost," there is the potential to gain new genealogical information. I challenge you — are you prepared? Will we have the wherewithal to assimilate that information? Please support the work of this Committee with your research, with your finances.

69 Library Committee Report Adam Giesinger

At last year's convention, which I was not able to attend, the following resolution was approved unanimously: "Whereas the collection of materials on the history of the Germans in Russia was the main concern of the founders of AHSGR, and whereas there are still so many thousands of books, periodicals, and documents on this history in libraries and archives in Germany and Russia, of which we have not yet acquired copies, be it resolved that this twentieth anniversary of our Society that the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia initiate immediately a fund drive to raise the sum of $50,000.000 for the acquisition of at least the most important of the available materials on the history of our people." (See Fall, 1982, Journal p. 71) A year later there is still no sign of any action on this resolution. This is deplorable. The last five years have been a period of stagnation in the development of our library. There has been no provision for it in our budget. The only funds available to us are small donations given for that purpose by some of our members. This is totally inadequate to do the job that we ought to be doing. Raising the money is not impossible. If we promoted library development with the same vigor as we promote our building plans, we could eventually become what we ought to be: the best library on the history of our people existing anywhere in the English-speaking world. It is time for action on this matter! Editor's note: During the past year, there have been the following additions to the library: 36 books purchased; 114 books donated; and 44 family histories donated.

Chapter Organization Committee Report Marian Meisinger

This year, 1989, is the twentieth Convention of AHSGR. We now have 57 chapters throughout the United States and Canada. We, the members of AHSGR, are concerned with their welfare and growth. Our chapters are the guardians of the future of AHSGR and the preservation of our ethnic history. Let us welcome into our family a new chapter: the Central Coast Chapter, Monterey, California. The birth of a new chapter makes us very proud. We congratulate the President, Dr. Wayne Rosenoff, and the officers and members and wish them well. May their lives be enriched by the on-going knowledge of our unique heritage and the fellowship of our ethnic family.

70 Public Relations Committee Report Selma T. Hieb, Chairman Maria MacTavish Marian Meisinger

Following last year's convention, the Public Relations Committee formulated and submitted a long range planning policy at the request of President Larry Metzler. The committee also produced a policy for obtaining and regulations for use of the newly purchased AHSGR travelling display case which was purchased with funds graciously donated by many chapters and individuals. These regulations were published in the April Newsletter so all members would have the information at hand. In addition, an illustration of the unit with suggestions for its use was mailed to each chapter President in March. Our committee encourages more chapters to make use of this travelling display unit. This committee has continued to provide publicity for the Board of Directors for their home-town newspapers following board meetings in hopes of stimulating interest and inquiries about AHSGR. Committee member Maria MacTavish, with the help of Katherine De Santis, has spent a great deal of time, effort and money to publicize AHSGR through extensive newspaper articles in the Rochester and Albany, New York district. Maria and Katherine deserve special thanks for this undertaking. The committee is concerned about the amount of misinformation which has been circulated within the Society this past year. We concur with President Metzler's request in his December 6,1988, letter to chapter Presidents when he stated, "One of my greatest concerns is the abundant amount of mail in circulation which sometimes does not carry the truth. Before you publish any of this mail or pass it on to others, please contact me to verify its truth." Good public relations must be truthful. The committee wants to thank all AHSGR members who have helped foster good public relations in publicizing our Society to those who do not know about us, as well as those who have fostered good relations within the Society. Each of you is our greatest potential for advertising AHSGR. Whatever strengths you have at your local level; folklore, history, music, food, genealogy, please use them to create and sustain interest in the Society. We continue to carry on this work with limited funds and with committee members covering all their own expenses in their work. We welcome all suggestions and help to complete our task,

Membership Committee Report Maria MacTavish

On behalf of the American Society of Germans from Russia, we welcome the new Life Members and congratulate them. Dr. Barry and Fern Hieb are receiving their life membership as a gift from brother Jim. We have begun a campaign for new members in the Northeastern states of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. We are contacting newspaper editors and requesting free space to advertise the activities of AHSGR. To date we have acquired 35 new members, including young people. Hopefully we will be in a position to organize a chapter or two as a beginning. Our present total membership stands at 5,422. Committee associates are: Hanna Deines, Delbert Amen and Mary Proscheiser. New members gained at this convention number 12.

71 Historical Research Committee Report Dr. Harley J. Stucky

The Historical Research Committee members worked on a number of different projects during the year. For want of time, we shall confine this report to two major objectives: contacting the chapters of the Society to discover what they are doing, and to encourage further activity and laying the groundwork for historical research among the Aussiedler. Our committee wanted to ascertain the research activity among our members and within the various chapters. We decided to make as systematic and comprehensive an approach as possible and felt this could best be done through a questionnaire. We prepared and mailed out the questionnaire. It gave some suggestions as to what the chapters might be doing and asked questions about the organization and work within the chapter. About a third of the chapters responded and the members of the Historical Research Committee want to thank the individuals and chapters that took the time to consider the questions, fill out, and return the questionnaire. In answering, most chapters seemed to involve their entire executive committee. This, in itself, is a plus because it activated some thought. The reactions to the questionnaire ranged all the way from "shock" and a refusal to cooperate to a new determination to do something. About a dozen chapters either assigned the task of historical research to an individual or to a committee. Thus the questionnaire stimulated interest and a new sense of responsibility. The Historical Research Committee hopes that the individuals appointed in the chapters or the local committees will keep it informed of historical research activities within each chapter. This will enable the International Committee to gather and compile the list of research activities. We can then act as a liaison between all the parties and can encourage research in areas not covered. The Committee also sees the need for activity among elementary, secondary and university students. The returns indicated the following conditions of historical research: Apparently prior to the questionnaire, one chapter had assigned an individual or committee to monitor and encourage historical research. At least in answer to the question, does the chapter have a person or committee assigned to monitor historical research?" only one chapter answered yes. In answer to the question "Do you know of students or others writing themes, papers, articles, novels, stories on the history or folklore of any other aspect of the Germans from Russia story?" only three reported knowledge of such activities. There were other comments of interest: "We feel our chapter does not need a historian or historical committee." " We have a very large library which gives resources and help to anyone needing historical information." "Sad to say, but most of our membership is not very active in research."" Another chapter reported, "We have a folklore chairman," One chapter president reported, "Yes, I keep a scrapbook." Another president reported that"... right now no one is collecting genealogies. A number of chapters reported that they were too small, or too old, or too apathetic. "Apathetic attitudes are our main problem," or "Another hurdle is that our membership is elderly, therefore not too active." From this it is quite apparent that your Historical Research Committee has a lot of work to do by way of organizing chapters to do historical research. Once the Committee organizes the chapters, they also must keep the chapters excited about their work and findings. The questionnaire revealed the state of the art, and it also provided us with the names of those interested in or newly elected or appointed to do historical research. Some chapters seemed surprised that the articles of incorporation described AHSGR's purpose as searching out and collecting any and all material of whatsoever kind relating to the history of Germans from Russia. AHSGR "... will collect printed material such as histories, genealogies, biographies,. .. gazetteers, directories, newspapers, pamphlets, catalogs, circulars, handbills, programs, posters, manuscripts, as

72 well as such material as letters, diaries, journals, memoranda, reminiscences, rosters, service records, account books, charts, surveys and field books, and museum material such as pictures, photographs, paintings, portraits scenes, artifacts and material objects illustrative of life, conditions, events, and activities ... of the Germans from Russia." Quite a number of books were published this year that we could comment on, such as in the North Dakota Centennial Heritage Series, which includes a chapter on "Volksdeutsche: The Eastern European Germans," by Timothy Kloberdanz. We appreciate all the family histories, the translations of German or Russian books and original studies which were given or purchased and are now listed in our library catalog. Another major concern is for the "Aussiedler." They are our relatives and some of you have aunts, uncles, cousins, even brothers and sisters among them. We are interested in helping you find your relatives and in their comfort. As a historical research committee we are also interested in the information, stories, books, maps, and other material and information which they have about the experience of the Germans in Russia and other East European countries. We have an opportunity now, and if we don't collect this material in the next few years, it will be lost. The Historical Research Committee applied for a grant from the Foundation to make a feasibility study of what is being done and what we could do to collect the stories, record the history, and secure the information which the "Aussiedlers" have and which is now available. If possible, we would like to apply for grants or make a fund drive to do the research and make certain that we collect all of the available information. We have even taken two collections at the Convention and we are happy to report that the International Foundation has given us $2500.00. Our collections brought in approximately $1400.00, and we have received numerous contributions for this project since then. Again, we want to thank all of you for your generosity and for your prayerful support and concern. Some have visited with the "Aussiedler" and have been surprised about the information they have on relatives — aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. Some people have reported that they found many of them to be virtual walking encyclopedias of the history, folklore and genealogy of our people. We trust that our efforts will bear considerable fruit in this regard.

Translation Committee Report Helen Koester

We continue to receive many translation requests from members. These are handled at Headquarters by Mary Rabenberg, who sends these to members who have volunteered to translate. The following list indicates the number of translators available at this time: German — 25 Polish — 3 Russian — 10 French — 3 Latvian — 1 Spanish — 3 Through the year we have had requests to translate: Letters — 53 German, 1 Russian Documents—21 German, 15 Russian Postcards — 3 German, 1 Russian Parts of books — 3 German Passports — 7 Russian, 1 Polish Miscellaneous — 1 German, 5 Russian Special mention should be made of the translations of the articles in the Wolhynisches Tagebuch by Hertha Karasek- Strzygowsld. These translations by Selma T. Hieb are being published in the Society's Journal. We are pleased to report that the translation of the Beratz book is progressing nicely. Translators are Dr. LaVerne Rippley, Dr. Leona Pfeifer and Dr. Dona Reeves-Marquardt. Editors for this project are Arthur E. Flegel and Dr. Adam Giesinger.

73 Resolutions Committee Report Lydia Jesse

The 1989 Resolutions Committee of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, meeting in Lincoln, Nebraska, is composed of: Ralph Ruff, Vacaville, California; George Buhr, Merriam, Kansas; and Lydia Jesse, Wheeling, Illinois. We present the following resolutions: 1. Whereas through the devoted efforts of the Executive Director, Miss Ruth M. Amen, the dedicated headquarters staff and the numerous volunteers, the Society has continued to grow and prosper and to meet the needs of its members, be it resolved that our special thanks be extended to them. 2. Whereas the AHSGR International Board of Directors, under the capable leadership of Larry Metzler, and the AHSGR Foundation Board of Trustees, under the able direction of Ralph Giebelhaus, work with tireless and unremunerated efforts to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of our organization and the achievement of our goals, be it resolved that we recognize their efforts and express appreciation of all they do for Unser Leute. 3. Whereas the success of any convention is based upon the conscientious efforts of its chairpersons, we salute Mary Froscheiser and Harry Hofftnann for their hours of hard work and attention to detail which have resulted in a highly organized and successful convention. We applaud our hosts, the entire Lincoln Chapter and their neighboring chapters: Mid- Nebraska, Hastings; Nebraska Panhandle, Gering; Platte Valley, Lexington; and Southwest Nebraska, McCook, for their contributions to an unforgettable event. 4. Whereas there were a number of members in the Lincoln Chapter who were involved in providing transportation to the various events of the convention, be it resolved that we sincerely thank them for their ser vices to provide for our ease and comfort and to make it possible to attend these events. 5. Whereas the AHSGR Headquarters at Lincoln, Nebraska, helps plan, provides expertise, genealogy files, publications, books, library materials and countless other services which contribute to the success and inspiration of the convention, be it resolved to express our appreciation with a generous round of applause. 6. Whereas our knowledge of the experiences and customs of the Germans from Russia has been increased through the contributions of various speakers and performers at this convention and Evelyn and Ralph Ruff, Ed Schwartzkopf and all others involved in the fine youth program, be it resolved that we express our appreciation to them. 7. Whereas the continued success of our yearly convention is contingent upon the countless individuals from all the chapters who give their time, money and physical resources to attend the convention, support the Society, and contribute their labor to the auction and bazaar, be it resolved that we share with one another the fellowship and pride in our common heritage. Furthermore, we value our auctioneer, Al Reiber, who each year enriches our coffers. We thank him for his talent which benefits us all. 8. Whereas the 1989 convention participants have experienced the warm hospitality of the city of Lincoln, met some of its officials and citizens, and have found the facilities at the Comhusker adequate and its offices and staff most cooperative in providing appropriate facilities for our meetings and eager to serve our collective and personal needs, to enhance our comfort and enjoyment, therefore be it resolved that we encourage our hosts to inform the appropriate city and hotel officers of our appreciation. 9. Whereas we are blessed with the presence of our founder and whereas his wisdom and foresight in recognizing our ethnic heritage, the need to preserve it and pass it on has given us a sense of who we are and caused us to become the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, be it resolved that we are forever indebted to David J. Miller. 10. Whereas Ruth M. Amen, Executive Director of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia has served our beloved organization in this capacity of leadership for the past eleven years after serving as president for the previous five years, and whereas her tenure in these wholly committed and too often unremunerated positions will soon end, be it resolved that this Twentieth International Convention and all those members of the Society absent from this meeting convened in Lincoln, Nebraska, July 24-30, 1989, congratulate her longevity sustained against great physical and emotional odds, do hereby commemorate her meritorious service and open-handed generosity.

74 AMERICAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF GERMANS FROM RUSSIA Twentieth International Convention July 24-30, 1989

MEMBERSHIP REPORT

The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia can be very proud of all it has accomplished since the fall of 1968. To think that we are having our 20th convention is amazing. Members come from all over the world to attend a week- long program that adds to their historical and genealogical knowledge. Folklore of our ancestors is related. We can truthfully say that we are the ethnic group that is engaged in publishing the story of our ancestors. We are losing members due to age, but we are enrolling many new members who are of the younger generation. When visitors tell us they have never heard of our society we must ask ourselves are we doing all we can to let others know about AHSGR? You who read this report may help by pledging now to enroll one new member by September 1, 1989. We'll look forward to hearing from you the name of the new member you have added to the roll.

A comparison of membership totals: June 30, 1989 5,367 June 30, 1988 5,418 June 30, 1987 5,450 December 31, 1987 5,666 June 30, 1986 5,370 December 31, 1986 5,655

A comparison of membership groupings:

6-30-87 6-30-88 6-30-89 New Members 591 534 583 Life Members 620 642 665 7 6 $50 Contributing 14 2 2 $100 Sustaining 1 4,228 4,106 5 $25 Renewals 4,219 5 Exchange 5 5,418 5,367 Non-Renewals: 711 684 709

5 States leading in new memberships:

6-30-88 6-30--89 1. California 105 1. California 96 2.Oregon 61 Nebraska 2. Oregon 78 TIE 3. Washington 55 61. Washington 4. Nebraska 47 60 5. Colorado 30 Colorado 39 Kansas 34

Life Memberships by Chapters: Arizona Sun — 7 Central Coast — 1 Arizona Sahuaro — 2 Central Oklahoma — 5 Central Big Ben — 5 Washington — 13 Colorado Hi Blue Mountain — 8 Plains — 6 Columbia Basin — 4 Calgary — 4 Denver - Metro — 24 Center of the Nation — 1 Edmonton & District — 1 Central California — 22

75 Flint, Michigan — 7 Northern Colorado — 22 Fox Valley of Wisconsin — 1 Northern Illinois — 25 Golden Empire - Bakersfield -4 Oklahoma Harvesters — 0 Golden Gate — 25 Olympic Peninsula — 6 Golden Spread — 7 Oregon — 42 Golden Wheat — 20 Oregon Cascade — 3 Greater Detroit — 5 Platte Valley of NE — 0 Greater Seattle — 26 Post Rock — 10 Greater Sheboygan — 11 Rainier — 8 Greater Spokane — 5 Regina & District — 4 Heart of America — 6 Sacramento Valley — 9 Heritage Seekers of SW KS - 4 Saginaw Valley — 26 Homestead — 1 Southeast Wisconsin — 8 Kansas City Area — 5 Southeast Wyoming — 3 Lincoln, Nebraska — 97 Southern California — 33 Lodi, California — 5 Southwest Michigan — 4 Melon Valley — 0 Southwest Nebraska — 3 Mid-Nebraska — 3 Sunflower — 8 Nation's Capital Area — 11 Yellowstone Valley — 5 Nebraska Panhandle — 7 Non-Chapter Area — 75 North Central Washington — 4 North Star of Minnesota — 9 TOTAL: 665 Northeast Kansas — 4

AMERICAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF GERMANS FROM RUSSIA Memberships by States, Provinces and Countries June 30, 1989 Alabama 3 Minnesota 147 Tennessee 6 Alaska 13 Mississippi 2 Texas 42 Alberta 93 Missouri 45 Utah 31 Arizona 65 Montana 73 Vermont 0 Arkansas 6 Nebraska 544 Virginia 36 Nevada 14 Washington 570 British Columbia 65 Newfoundland 1 California 938 West Virginia 2 New Hampshire 3 Wisconsin 167 Colorado 481 New Jersey 11 Wyoming 68 Connecticut 7 New Mexico 20 Washington, D.C. 6 Delaware 1 New York 54 Argentina 2 Florida 36 North Carolina 6 Australia 1 Georgia 11 North Dakota 47 West Germany 9 Hawaii 7 Ohio 26 Brazil 1 Idaho 41 Oklahoma 123 Israel 1 Illinois 149 Ontario 18 Japan 2 Indiana 23 Oregon 432 Mexico 1 Pennsylvania 19 Iowa 52 Saipan 1 Puerto Rico 1 Spain 1 Kansas 395 Quebec 1 Kentucky 0 Switzerland 1 Rhode Island 0 Virgin Islands 1 Louisiana 1 Saskatchewan 67 Maine 2 South Carolina 7 England 1 Manitoba 21 South Dakota 73 Maryland 24 TOTAL 5,367 Massachusetts 12 Michigan 237

76 Report on AHSGR Elections

The following candidates were elected to serve as directors. To serve a second three-year term, not eligible for re-election: Mrs. Selma T. Hieb, Henderson, Nebraska Mr. Ed Schwartzkopf, Lincoln, Nebraska Mr. Jake Sinner, Lincoln, Nebraska To serve a first three-year term, eligible for re-election Dr. Timothy Kloberdanz, Fargo, North Dakota Mr. Leiand Kraft, Pasco, Washington Mrs. Sara F. Neal, Walla Walla, Washington Mrs. Ella M. Reese, Puyaliup, Washington Mr. Ralph Ruff, Vacaville, California Mr. Arnold Schroeder, St. Catharines, Ontario Mrs. Ruth Williams, Portland, Oregon Elected to a one-year term, eligible for election to full three-year term: Mr. Herbert Babitzke, Olympia, Washington

Elected to serve as officers for 1989-1990: President: Dr. Larry Metzler, Fresno, California Vice-President: Dr. Harley Stucky, North Newton, Kansas Secretary: Mrs. Elaine Wilcox, Saginaw, Michigan Treasurer: Mr. Jake Sinner, Lincoln, Nebraska

Report on International AHSGR Foundation Elections The following were elected to serve a three-year term as trustees: Mrs. Joyce Deines, Mead, Nebraska Mrs. Selma T. Hieb, Henderson, Nebraska Mr. John Kisner, Wichita, Kansas Mr. Arnold Schroeder, St. Catharines, Ontario Mr. Ed Schwartzkopf, Lincoln, Nebraska

Elected to serve as officers for 1989-1990 were: President: Dr. Solomon R. Schneider, Ft. Collins, Colorado President- Elect: Mr. Ed Schwartzkopf, Lincoln, Nebraska Vice-President: Mrs. Joyce Deines, Mead, Nebraska Secretary: Miss Ruth K. Stoll, Yuma, Arizona Treasurer: Mr. Jake Sinner, Lincoln, Nebraska

77 WE HONOR OUR HERITAGE THROUGH FAITH The Rev. Fred J.WoIff

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we pause first of all to thank you for permitting us to open our eyes to a new day. You have watched over us, protecting us from danger and harm, both of body and soul. We further thank you for the convention of the AHSGR which now concludes with this worship service. We thank you for the heritage which is ours and we pray we might have the faith that our forefathers had as they left family and homeland to go to another place, there to live and worship without fear and with all freedom. Bless us now then, 0 Lord, as we pause to give you our special thanks in this service this morning. In Your Holy Name we pray. Amen.

Text: Ecclesiastes 2:24, "There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This I say, is from the hand of God." Amen. It is great to close a convention with a worship service, to thank God for the blessings of being together with people from all over the USA, Canada, Europe, and South America; for the actions taken by the people of the convention and to seek His blessings upon all as they go their homeward way. I have been in the ministry for thirty-eight years and exactly one half of those years was spent overseas, especially in Latin America. With all the problems one hears about and reads about in Latin America today, one of the most often asked questions is, "Why is Latin America so far behind North America?" There are many reasons, among them climate, food, governments. In spite of all these, I think there is still a greater reason, and that is the difference that the little letter "L" makes. Our forefathers came to a foreign country because of their desire to worship God. Their faith was in their creator. They went, knowing that the blessings of the Lord would go with them. Oh, not everything the settlers did is something we are proud of. Our treatment of the American Indian and the slaves causes us to hang our heads in shame. But basically. God was the factor that brought people here. If one takes a look at Latin America, especially the northern part of South America (Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador), we find the first to come there came not for God. By putting the little letter "L" between the 0 and the D, we get the word "GOLD." Our ancestors came because they loved God and STAYED. Those early explorers coming to South America sought GOLD, took it, and left. They destroyed and left in waste. Those coining to our country stayed, built roads, schools, hospitals, orphanages, old people's homes. I do not want anyone to think that all was beautiful in "Good Old USA." There are parts that we are not proud of and we wish that our children would not have to read about those acts in the history books. But again on the whole, I believe our heritage is one that we look to and pray that we, too, might so live our lives and have faith in God as did our forefathers. If we truly want to honor our heritage, each and every one of us should so try to live our lives that when our children and grandchildren have conventions such as this, they can look upon "their" heritage with pride and joy. May each of us have faith in God, so that faith causes us to do His will and be of help to our fellow man. Thank you for asking me to be with you at this service. The blessings of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen. Der Herr segne dich un beheute dich, Der Herr lasse Sein Angesicht leuten ueber dir Und sei dir Gnadig, Der Herr erhebe sein Angesicht auf dich und Gebe dir Frieden. Amen.

78 WE HONOR OUR HERITAGE THROUGH FAITH Memory and Hope! Pastor Herbert E. Wenz

Leviticus 25; 18-24, The land is a place to exist but only as sojoumers, a birth right, not to be sold. I Peter 2:9-10, God calls us to be his people, to declare God's wonderful deeds. Text: I Peter 2:9. "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. God's own people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of God who called you out of darkness into God's mar-velous light."

Our father and mother in the faith, Abraham and Sarah, were elderly and established in the Ur ofChal-dees when God called Abraham, had him and Sarah pack their belongings and migrate down to Canaan. God told Abraham that he would become the father of many descendants who would inhabit Canaan. God called Sarah to bear a son in old age so that could happen. How could they accomplish this? MEMORY AND HOPE! They remembered God's call and promise, and hoped they would be faithful so God could realize His call through them. Joseph in Egypt, now in Egypt's leadership, remembered he was Jacob's son and hoped God would grant him the grace to help his brothers, who suffered drought and starvation back in Canaan. They came to buy grain, even though they had sold Joseph into slavery. Moses remembered God's promise and through hope led his people out of slavery in Egypt. In the forty years of wandering in the desert, Moses constantly reminded the Israelites how God led them out of slavery and how God expected them to remain faithful for their own sakes, so they could remain God's people. The first commandment states, "I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before me." MEMORY AND HOPE! Moses kept the Israelites' thinking focused on the MEMORY and the HOPE they would continue to be faithful to the God who called them. MEMORY AND HOPE! Things were not well in Germany politically during the 1700's. All kinds of power-hungry emperors tried to dominate as much of Europe as possible, denying fellow Germans their rights to practice their religion and not take up arms. In 1763, the ancestors of you Volga Germans began to leave Germany to accept the invitations of Catherine the Great. This German-bom ruler promised them much because she knew they were industrious people:

Full religious liberty Exemption from military service About 60 acres free land Complete control over their own churches and schools Almost complete autonomy in local government Free transportation from Germany to Russia Tax exemption for ten years Interest-free loans of 500 rubles.

Upon arrival in Russia, your Volga German ancestors were homesick for Germany as they looked at the barren steppes of the Volga region. But they resolved to make a breadbasket out of that vast, desolate area, against all kinds of hardships, including the plundering of their villages by Russian vagabonds. They did this because they remembered that God called them to be his faithful people. In return, they hoped they

79 would be faithful, "declaring the wonderful deeds of the God who called them out of darkness into mar-velous light." MEMORY AND HOPE! Later, in the early 1800's, my ancestors, known as the Black Sea Germans, left Germany to settle in Odessa, Krim and Bessarabia. By then Catherine's son was ruling and the freedoms she promised began to erode. Two generations later, about a century, our ancestors from both the Volga region and the Black Sea area began to emigrate. Some, like Dr. Stumpp, returned to Germany, while others went to North America, and still others went to South America. Again, they remembered that even though me world treated them as "no people," God called them to be His people to whom He showed mercy. They hoped to be faithful. And they were, even though they had very little in material goods. MEMORY AND HOPE! In this country, they helped make the railroads succeed and they again made a breadbasket out of the Great Plains and California. Neat and productive farms graced the countryside in Iowa, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, Colorado, Minnesota, Washington state, "declaring the wonderful deeds of the God who called them." MEMORY AND HOPE! Today we have a minimum wage, and that is good. Our ancestors took a menial job and graced it with a production as though they held a high and honorable position. Too often they had to say, "I will work for you; pay me what you choose." Too often they were taken advantage of. During my eight years as pastor of First German Congregational United Church of Christ, I had the funeral of one member. He, with a young wife and two small children, washed dishes in a local restaurant ten to twelve hours a day for fifty cents. The world again treated them as "no people," but they knew they were God's people called to "declare the wonderful deeds of God, who called them out of darkness into light." They were GOD'S OWN PEOPLE. All God's people have MEMORY AND HOPE. And they want a place (land) where they can dwell securely and practice their faith responsibly, as the author of Leviticus wrote about the Israelites: "Therefore you shall do my statues, and keep my ordinances and perform them; so you will dwell in the land securely." We can proudly honor our heritage. Our ancestors weren't perfect, and there were some stinkers among them just as there are among us today. We honor our heritage best by being as honorable, loyal, ethical, moral, productive, sincere, sensitive as they were. We will be if we remember that God calls us to be faithful and hope, pray and resolve that we will be as faithful in our time as our ancestors were in their time. MEMORY AND HOPE! God's people thrive on it. AMEN!

Pastor Herbert E. Wenz, Rev. Fred J. Wolff, and Wilbur H. Amen, who presided at the services.

80 REPORTS TO THE TWENTIETH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ……………………………..64 Executive Director — Ruth M. Amen International Secretary — Elaine Wilcox Treasurer — Jake Sinner Finance Committee — John J. Kisner Editorial Committee — Dr. Nancy B. Holland Folklore Committee — Ruth Freehling Genealogy Committee — Allyn Brosz Library Committee — Adam Giesinger Chapter Organization Committee — Marian Meisinger Public Relations Committee — Selma T. Hieb, Maria MacTavish, Marian Meisinger Membership Committee — Maria MacTavish Historical Research Committee — Dr. Harley J. Stucky Translation Committee — Helen Koester Resolutions Committee — Lydia Jesse Membership Report — Maria MacTavish

REPORT ON AHSGR AND FOUNDATION ELECTIONS …………………………………….……..77

WE HONOR OUR HERITAGE THROUGH FAITH …………………………………………..……78 The Rev. Fred J. Wolff Pastor Herbert E. Wenz

On the cover: Heritage Center Buildings

END OF VOLUME 12, NUMBER 3, FALL 1989