MENNONITE HISTORIAN

Published by the Mennonite Heritage Centre and the Centre for MB Studies in Canada Volume XV, No.4, December 1989

Today, efforts are being made to preserve this structure and perhaps transform it into a museum.3 Local officials have already indi­ cated their support of such historical preser­ vation efforts. There has also been some dis­ cussion of moving this former church, now vacant, to the largest, fairly well-preserved Mennonite cemetery in the area, located near Stogi, formerly Heubuden. The cemetery at Stogi still has many grave markers with legible inscriptions. Efforts are currently underway to fence the cemetery and identify it with an appropriate historical plaque or other marker. In recent years numerous visitors to this area have helped to make Polish authorities aware of both the historical significance and the tourist possi­ bilities of the cemetery. Several other church buildings and ceme­ teries are to be found in the delta as well as along the Vistula_ Former Mennonite church buildings in Gdansk, Elblag, Rozgart (Pr. Rosengart) and Matav.y (Montau) now serve Catholic and Protestant congregations. In some other instances, as at Lubieszewo (La­ dekopp) and Orlowskie Pole (Orlofferfelde), This is a recent photo of the former Fuerstenwerder Mennonite Church building in churches have been removed, but a signifi­ northern Poland. It is being considered for development as a museum. cant number of grave markers can still be Photo: Courtesy of Peter J. Klassen. Fresno. California identified. Certainly Mennonites in this region made an especially noteworthy contribution to the The Vistula Mennonites Revisited: Some prosperity oftheir adopted country by excell­ ing in agriculture. Drainage systems they built Footsteps Remain still function; farm homes and bams they constructed still stand. In a number of instan­ by Peterj. Klassen ces, Mennonites built homes with the distinc­ tive front arcade; often the name of the In very few parts ofEurope has there been a zig) and Elblag (Elbing) ll1ese marshy low­ builder, chiselled into the door frame, is still Mennonite presence as long as that in Poland lands, once known as Werders, and today legible. and Prussia. Events in 1945 brought to an end called Zulawy, provided a homeland and op­ Few Mennonite markers in Poland and an involvement that had spanned four centur­ portuniry for Mennonites in the 16th century Prussia became as Widely known as the ies, and that had seen Mennonites in various and in later years. Polish kings and local "Nickelstein," the granite monument erected relationships with Polish and Prussian politi­ authorities allowed these refugees from reli­ in Schoensee (Sosnowka) in 1911 to com­ cal rulers, Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox gious persecution to settle on and transform memorate an event during the Napoleonic religious patterns, and agricultural and com­ these marshlands into what one observer wars 4 In 1806, on behalfofthe East and West mercial systems. At the same time, Menno­ described as a ··garden." Prussian Mennonites, Deacon Abraham Nickel nites often found themselves at the mercy of Even though Mennonites were allowed to presented "30,000 Taler" to King Friedrich national and international forces that reflec­ settle here, they were still restricted in many Wilhelm 1II to assist "widows and orphans of ted the pressures ofpower politics_ The parti­ ways, such as religious expression, occupa­ soldiers_" Today, this marker stands on the tion ofPoland in the late 18th century, when tion, and economic actiVity. Only in 1768, for east side ofthe Catholic church in the village the area ofMennonite settlement came under example, did they gain permission to build of Szynych (Schoeneich). Prussian rule, was only the most dramatic churches in the Werder. Even then, size and Researchers interested in examining var­ illustration ofthe way in which life along the style were severely limited. One of the chur­ ious aspects of the Mennonite story in this Vistula reflected political realities elsewhere.' ches built in that year still stands_ It served the region will find hundreds of documents in The role the Mennonites played in the his­ Fuerstenwerder congregation, and can be several archives. Holdings in Gdansk are tory of this region is still discernible today_ seen just outside the village of Niedzwied­ especially rich, with numerous contracts, vil­ Perhaps the most obvious reminders of ear­ zica. Although its exterior dimensions were lage charters, taX agreements, incorporation lier contributions are the church buildings strictly prescribed, an imaginative "BauheIT" papers, local government regulations, etc., and farms that stand in many of the villages designed it with three interior levels, thus providing insights into civil and economic along the Vistula2 They are especially nu­ greatly increasing the number of persons it arrangements. Here too may be found some merous in the delta between Gdansk (Dan- could hold. (cont'd on p. 2) Page 2 The Early Letkemanns Vistula Mennonites Revisited 1642, in which the king granted broad privi· leges to the Mennonites.s In a cryptic com­ (cont'd from p. 1) ment, he refers to his royal grandfather as by Henry Schapansky having granted similar rights earlier. Whether The unusual Mennonite surname "Letke· episcopal letters granting permission to build Sigismund Augustus actually did so or not mann" has provoked some authors to 6pecu· churches, and specifying obligations ofMen· remains uncertain. Thus far, historians have late that this name is derived from "the little. nonites iftheywished to live on land belong· been unable to find the corresponding leiter man" o[ "the little Luedtke." Be that as it may, ing to the church. or statute. Perhaps other students of Menno· the idea of Dr. H. Penner that the Mennonite One ofthe more remarkable documents is nite history will take up the challenge. Letkemanns are descendants of one jacob that of King W1adyslaw, dated 22 December Undtkeman, resident at A1tendorf, in the Vis· Peterj. Klassen is Dean ofthe School ofSocial tula delta, in 1727, appears to be correct. It Sciences and Professor ofHistory, California seems the Lindtkemans were among the orig· State University, Fresno, California. inal German settlers of the Vistula delta and joined the Mennonite church in the 1700s. The earliest written form of this name in the Mennonite church records is that bf jacob Endnotes Utckemann (1781), later written as jacob Let· tkeman (1807). lA recent sketch of backgrounds is part of this author's new book, A Homeland for The early Letkemanns had close ties to the Strangers. An Introduction to Mennonites in village of A1tendorf. The Konsignation Liste Poland and Prussia, published earlier this of 1776 shows only rwo Letkemann families, year by the Center for MB Studies, Fresno, both resident at A1tendorf. jacob (1737· California. Cf. also PJ Klassen, "Faith and 30.11807) and Peter (1756·12.9.1796) may Culture in Conflict: Mennonites in the Vistula have been brothers or otherwise related, as Delta," Mennonite Quarterly Review LVII jacob's daughter Agatha, married (7.4.1799) Peter's son Heinrich. Peter Letkemann mar· Ouly, 1983), 194·205. 2Cf. illustrations found in Horst Gerlach, ried a Sara Goosen, likely the daughter of Bildband zur Geschichte der Mennoniten Heinrich Goosen, also resident at A1tendorf (1980), 21ff. (1776). Ae, late as 1840, the binh of a great 3Cf. news release by Mennonite World Con· grandson ofJacob is recorded at A1tendorf. A Maria Letkemann (Mrs. johann Rahn) from ference dated September 6, 1989, for a sum· mary of information on Polish cemetery res· Halbstadt, Russia, visited the ancestral village toration and development provided by the in 1861, where she passed away 12.8.1861) i Hans Denk Fellowship of West Germany. and was buried. Helmut Reimer and Horst Heidebrecht direct There is good evidence to indicate that all /. the work of the Fellowship. the later Letkemanns are descendants of 4A "Nickelstein" photo is found in Gerlach, jacob Letkemann's sons Nicholas (Klaas) (1781·1830) and jacob (1788·?) or of Peter 55. sCf. John Friesen, "Mennonites in Poland: Letkemann's sons Heinrich (1779·1885) and An Expanded Historical View," Journal of Jacob (1792·?). Heinrich, his brother Jacob, A grave marker that has survived in the Mennonite Studies IV (1986), 94-108, for and jacob, the half-brother to Agatha Letke· cemetery of the former Fuerstenwerder congregation. materials related to understanding the Polish mann and possible cousin of Heinrich, emi· Photo: Courtesy of Peter J. Klassen, Fresno. California Privilegia of the 17th century. grated to Russia in 1818. Jacob Thiessen, the father of Heinrich's second wife also emi· grated to Russia in 1818. Heinrich and his Klassen and Arnold Dyck. Tiegenhagen Church Records, 1796·1944. mother had originally enlisted for emigration Jacob (born 4.8.1792, baptized 1808), the MHC Archives microfilm 73, 289. in 1803. Possibly the ill·health of Heinrich's brother of Heinrich, seems to have settled at Grosses Werder Baptismal Records, 1782· brother Peter, who died 2.12.1804, annulled Halbstadt, Molotschna, in 1818. Later Letke· 1840. MHC Archives microfilm 174. these plans. Heinrich's first wife, Agatha Let· manns resident at Halbstadt included jacob, RH. Unruh, Die niederlandisch-niederdeut­ kemann, died 19.2.1816 at Petershagen, Prus· the bookstore owner, and Peter, the Kom· schen Hintergriinde der Mennonitischen sia, and he re·married (6.10.1816) Elisabeth merzschule teacher killed 18.2.1918. Some of Ostwanderungen im 16.18. und 19. Jahr­ Thiessen of Petershagen. the Molotschna Letkemanns later wrote their hundert. 1955. Heinrich Letkemann settled at Insel Chor· names as Loetkemann. H. Penner, Die ost- lmd westpreufiischen titza, Russia, where his youngest son, Jacob, Nicholas Letkemann (1781·1830) remained Mennoniten. 1978. was born (25.1.1834). Another sonJacob had at Altendorf where he died (7.1.1830). It V. Peters and]. Thiessen, Mennonite Names. died previously. A grandSon, Heinrich appears that his widow, Anna (nee Hein), 1987 (27.3.1854'3.2.1900), later may possibly have together with the children, Anna, Agatha, ].S. Postma, Das niederlaendische Erbe der resided at the original homestead at Insel jacoband Martin, emigrated to the Molotschna preuszisch-ruszlaendischer Mennoniten in Chortitza. Other sons of Heinrich moved to in 1836. There seems to be some doubt as to Europa, Asien, und Amerika. 1959. Osterwick in the Old Colony. whether the oldest son, Nicholas (Klaas, born !.P. Klassen, Die [nsel Chortitza. 1979. Although there is some uncertainty as JO 25.11.1811, A1tendorf), also emigrated, since A Dyck, Collected Works, Vol. 3. 1988. which jacob moved to Nieder·Chortitza in the births ofrwo ofhis children are recorded Mennonite Historian XIII, I (March, 1987). 1818, I believe it was the brother·in·law (born in Altendorf in 1840 and 1842. Unpublished notes of PeterJacob Letke· 11.12.1788) and his wife, 'Helena Pauls. The mann. Letkemanns of Nieder·Chortitza appear to Sources Alfred H. Redekopp, Jacob Thielmann and have been well·known, since references to Petershagen (Tiegenhagen) Church Recorcls, Helena Kroeker: A Family History and them appear in the semi·fictional works of!.P. 1782·1831. MHC Archives microfilm 73. Genealogy oftheir Descendants. 1987.

MENNONITE HISTORIAN is published quarterly by the HistoryArchives Comminee ofthe Conference ofMennonites in Canada and the Centre for Mennonite Brethren Studies (Winnipeg) ofthe Canadian Conference ofMB Churches. It is edited by lawrence K1ippen,tein and Ken Reddig. All correspondence and unpublished manuscripts should he sent tothe editorial offices at 600 Shafteshury Blvd., Winnipeg. Manitoha, Canada, R.W OM4 (Phone, [2041 8AA·678I) or 1·169 Riverton Ave .. Winnipeg. Manitoha, Canada, R2L 2E5 (Phone [204 J 669·6575). Subscription fee, $6.00 per year. IS.~N 0700·8066. Page 3

FAMILY HISTORYAND GENEALOGY Toews, Ida. A Short lllustrated Narrative ofthe Family ofAbraham Heinrich Toews byAlfRedekopp and Susanna Martha Friesen (Winnipeg: Private Publication, 1989). 35 pp. Contact: Ida Toews, 133 Fraser's Grove, Winnipeg, MB, Queries R2K OE6. Abraham H. Toews (1885-1976), born in BERGEN - Katharina, b. 30 Nov. 1819-, d. Alexanderwohl, Molotschna, to Heinrich Isaak 11 Feb. 18'56, m. 12 Nov. 1842 to Kornelius Toews and Katharina Klassen, is the primary Ens, all most likely in Chortitza Colony. Child· subject ofthis book. In addition to the story of ren: Kornelius e. Ens and Katherina (Ens) this man's family, this book contains numer­ Wolf emigrated to Canada; Isaak Ens to Kan· ous photographs, several maps, and two sas. Also, Jacob and Elisabeth (Bergen) Neu· The first documented German settler genealogy charts. The Toews family ancestry feld, whose daughter Katharina Neufeld (1847· in Canada was Hans Bernath who arrived is traced back to Abraham Toews (1781) and 1921) married Kornelius e. Ens. Anyone with on May 1,1664. Elisabeth Warkentin (1783) of Heuboden, information on Bergen family, please contact: This image was produced by the Ger­ West Prussia. The Friesen ancestry is traced Verne Ediger, Box 701074, West Valley City, man-Canadian Congress, which has its back to Johann von Riesen (1768-1835) and ur, USA, 84170 ' Manitoba Office at 16-1110 Henderson Helene Schwarz (1763-1845) ofK.rebsfelde, EDIGER - Research underway on Ediger Hwy., Winnipeg, Canada, R2G 1L4. Prussia, who immigrated to Muntau, Russia. surname, regardless of when families emi· grated from Russia or Prussia. Please contact: Friesen, Ted E., compo Genealogy ofMar· Verne Ediger, Box 701074, West Valley City, Canada in 1926, and settled in south-western garetha Klippenstein, 1842-1909, and Mar­ LIT, USA, 84170. Manitoba, farming near Manitou, Ninga and tin Friesen, 18]8-1910 (Altona, MB: Private ENNS - Wishing to be in touch with the Minto, and eventually retiring to Boissevain. Publication, 1989). 87 pp., pb. Contact: Ted family that sent in the information regarding Driedger,J. DriedgerFamilyHistory (Stein­ Friesen, Box 720, Altona, MB, ROG OBO. theJohann Enns Family, pages 270·275, in the bach, MB: Henry Driedger, 1986). 124 pp., Margaretha Klippenstein, grand-daughter Johann Janzen 1752·1977 Genealogy book, hdc., $30.00. Contact: J. Driedger, Box 203. of Berend Klippenstein, 1781-1841, married compiled by K. Peters. Contact Mary Hoeppner, Roland, MB, ROG ITO. Martin Friesen, born in Bergthal, south Russia, Box 16, Morden, MB, ROG 1.10. This book traces the Driedger family of son of Abram Friesen, on 14 January, 1861. KOOP - Benjamin A. Koop, b. 12 Nov. David Driedger, 1858-1918 (son of Johan Johann M. Friesen, the first oftheir children to 1891, d. Apr. 196'5, Vancouver, Be. Married on Driedger, 1826-1918), and Anna Hildebrand, survive infancy, later went on to play an 3 Oct. 1922 to MargarethaJANZEN, b. 19 Dec. 1862·1937. It has the valuable addition of a important role in Mennonite education and 1896, lived in Gnadenheim, Molotsehna, and name index and is well supplied with photo­ Canadian Conference organization. immigrated to Canada in 1925, living at Drake graphs. and Colonsay, SK. Looking for place of birth Genealogy Workshop and marriage, and the siblings ofBenjamin A. Janzen, Russell H., compo janzen, 1780­ and Margaretha KOOP. Contact Margaret Sie· 1989. A Family History and genealogy of HearAdalbert Goertz ofWaynesboro, Penn· mens, 24307 - 68th Ave., RR ,,6, Langley, BC, jacob F. and Susanna (Baerg) janzen ­ sylvania, onJuly 21,1990 in Winnipeg on the V3A 4P9. theirancestorsandtheirdescendants (Boun­ topic: "Tracing Mennonite Roots in Prussia tiful, ill: Family History Publishers, 1989). and Eastern Europe." Goertz was born in 271 pp., hdc. Contact: Russell H. Janzen, 37­ 1928 in West Prussia, fled to Germany in 1945, Recently Published Genealogies 3351 Horn Rd., Abbotsford, BC, V2S 4N3. and emigrated to the U.SA in 1960. He has Guenter, J.G., compo Franz and Anna The family and descendants of Jacob F. authored a number ofarticles on the topic of Guenther& Descendants(1761·1989) (Sas· Janzen, son of Cornelius Jantzen, who emi­ church records from Prussia in such journals katoon, SK: Private Publication, 1989). 233 grated from Reinland, West Prussia, in 1817 to and periodicals as Mennonite Quarterly Re­ pp., hdc., $17.00 plus $1.50 postage. Contact: Lichtfelde, Molotschna, is the focus of this view and Mennonite Family History. Further .lac. G. Guenter, RR 4, Box 72, Saskatoon, SK, book. Cornelius was the son ofJohann Jant­ details about the workshop will be published S7K 3.17. zen, 1752-1823, and Marie Bergmann, 1758­ in the March, 1990, Mennonite Historian. 1808(?). The book is well supplied with pho­ This book consists of two parts. Part I pre· Address queries, etc. regarding items on this tographs, maps and an index. A chapter is sents the lineage of the late Gerhard, Peter page to: AI!Redekopp, CMBS, 169 Riverton included with a chronology of the Berg! and Aron Guenter up to 1989. Part II, entitled Ave., Winnipeg, Canada, R2L 2£5. "Collections and Reflections," recalls the Baerg families. images of bygone days. The book contains over 1600 names ofthe family, some ofwhom Polish/Prussian Mennonite have been born in Russia and immigrated to Symposium Coming the Americas and homesteaded in southern Germans from Russia Manitoba and central Saskatchewan. It also Symposium A symposium on the experience of Men· includes a diary of the author's recent trip to nonites in the city of Gdansk and the Vistula Ukraine. July 10-12,19-90 delta is being planned for July 21-24, 1990. It Dueck Album Committee. "Our Fathers North Dakota State University will be held in Winnipeg, immediately prior Have Told Us. " The Heinrich B. Dueck Fam· Fargo, North Dakota to the Mennonite World Conference. The ily (Winnipeg: Private Publication, 1989). 126 symposium will feature presentations on var­ pp., $50.00. Contact: Dave Dueck, 295 Wallace Featuring well-known, international ious themes, as well as displays of maps, Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2E OBI. speakers on various topics related to paintings and photos. The symposium is This book contains the history ofdescend· Germans from Russia. designed to be a "peoples' event," including ants of Heinrich B. Dueck (1877·1968) and both scholars and other interested persons. A Maria Dueck (1877·1921) and Katharina Dyck For more information contact: Michael full program will be published in the March (1884·1980). The Dueck ancestry is traced M. Miller, North Dakota Institute for issue ofthe Mennonite Historian. For further back to Bernhard H. Dueck (1849·1898) and Regional Studies, North Dakota State information contact John Friesen, Canadian Helena Wiebe (1852·1912) of Waldheim, University Library, Fargo, North Dakota, Mennonite Bible College, 600 Shaftesbury Molotschna. From the Arkadak area in Russia, 48105-5599, USA. Blvd., Winnipeg, Canada, R3P OM4, or phone the Heinrich B. Dueck family emigrated to (204) 888·6781, ext. 230. Page 4

REFLECfIONS ON COLLECTIONS

Gerhard Lohrenz Collection MG XX 62 byJim Suderman Gerhard Lohrenz (IR99· ]986) was born in Friedcnsfeld, 7-3gradovka. He married Anni Harder in 1922. They immigrated to Canada in 1925 where he farmed, attended MCI and later became involved in teaching and minis· try in Springstein, Manitoba. In 1947 Lohrenz became principal ofthe newlv·founded Men· nonite Brethren Collegiate Institutewherc he rem:tincd until 1952 when he became a pro· fessor al the Canadian Mennonite Bible Col· lege. He joined the Sargent A\'enue Menno· nite Church arkl was ordained in 1954 and became an elder in 1959. lie concluded his teaching career in 1964 and his direct involve· ment with the Sargent Church in 1969. During the 1970s he maintained his Conference involvements and led many tours to the Soviet Union. The Lohrenz collection consists ofapprox· imately 2.3 metres ofmaterial in German and Students and teacher of the Halbstadt School Division #886 in a photo of April 28, English. The earliest correspondence dates 1909. Halbstadt was a district in southern Manitoba east and somewhat south of from 1936 although most of it is dated 196'5 Altona. and later. This is a valuable record for almost Back row (I-r): Jacob G. Voth (teacher), Jacob Hamm, Agatha Heinrichs, Mary every endeavor of the last 25 years of Loh· Heinrichs, John J. Heinrichs, Peter P. Heinrichs, Peter A. Friesen. 2nd from back: renz's life and includes some of Lohrenz's Helen Neufeld, Mary J. Heinrichs, Helen P. Heinrichs, Mary W. Heinrichs, Margaretha own letters as well as those he received. Friesen, Anna J. Heinrichs, Susan J. Heinrichs, Sara Hamm. 3rd from back: Mary H. Topical files make up the bulk of the col· Heinrichs, Margaretha Friesen, Margaretha P. Heinrichs, Willie A. Friesen, Dietrich A. Iection, including substantial sections on Friesen, Anna Hamm, Bernard J. Heinrichs, Willie J. Heinrichs, Anton Heinrichs, Lorenz's m:jny tours, publications, historical Cornelius Friesen. Front row: Susie W. Heinrichs, Mary Janzen, David Heinrichs, work, sermons and theological nOles. Here Cornelius Heinrichs, Peter G. Friesen, Willie W. Heinrichs. too are valuable clues to the personal projects Photo: Courtesy of Kathy Martens, Winnipeg. Manitoba undertaken by Lohrenz - especially evident is his passion for Russian Mennonite history. The topics covered give one a sense of how Lohrenz perceived his role as a minister and a teacher. Notes and monographs by authors such as Frank H. Err, Benjamin H. Unruh and many others are also included in the collection. These materials range from personal biogra· phil'S and memoirs to commentaries on polito ical and church·related issues. There are significant gaps in the collection. Record of his involvement in the Conference of Mennonites in Canada and with CMBC is absent. Only a thin file of materials directly related to the Sargent Avenue Mennonite Church. His historical work is also poorlysupported in this collection. In every case but one there is little indication in the files relating to his publications as to what the main source or inspiration for his books was. The one excep' tion of The Lost Generation, the source of which lies in manuscript form within the collection. This Kroeger clock, manufactured in We like to think that Mennonite Histor­ 1833, was recently donated to the MHC ian has something for all ages. Here is by the members of the Johann Gies­ Luke Janzen, age 1, being introduced to brecht family: Anne, Mary and the late this fine newsletter (at Christmas time John Giesbrecht. It was given to the last year). Luke is the son of Ron and \'I,X~Ji~i{?'rl~/~N Noreen Janzen of Winnipeg. ·;l Centre as a "thanksgiving to God for His 600 Shaftesburv Blvd Wlnnlpeg,ManI10ba,Canada R3P OM4 goodness in leading our Mennonite peo­ Photo: Courtesy of Ron Janzen ple to Canada." Photo: Courtesy of Artur Kroeger Page ')

Canadian Mennonite Archivists Meet

Four Mennonite archives of Canada were represented at the annual meeting of the Mennonite Historical Society of C:lnada (MHSC) on December 2. The fo'urwere David Schellenberg ofthe EMC archiH's, Steinhach. Manitoba, Sam Steiner. Conrad Grehel C'll· lege, W3terloo, Ontario. Ken Reddig, Centre for Mennonite Brethren Studies. Winnipeg, Manitoha, and l.awrence Klippenstein. Men nonite Heritage Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoh:l. M3rlenc Epp and Ted Regehr, working on Mennonites in Canada Vol. III, as well :IS Ben Friesen, who chairs the Data Rase Committee ofMHSC, were present at the archivists' meet ings which took place at this time. Besides hearing reports from the archh'al centres, those present discussed putting to gether a "union" direCtory of serials, held in the various centres. CGC Archives. MHC At' chives and CMBS have computerized listings of all the periodicals, newspapers, etc., held Looking overthe Ben and Esther Horch Music Collection are (I-r): Ken Reddig, Centre in their respective holdings. Archivist, Esther Horch, Ben Horch, the donors, Irmgard and William Baerg, MBBC Marlene reponed that many congregations music faculty. Photo: Courtesy of Ron Geddert. MB Herald have sem information which forms a valuable resource now for further research on Menno· nite congregations in Canada. Major Music Collection HYmn Book Collection For the future Canadian Mennonite archives Received Donated will contribute to a new edition of the Men nonite World Conference directOlY ofarchives In Novemher, 1989, Ben and Esther Horch Another significant collection ofhymn hooks and historical libraries to be puhlished in donated their extensive music and hymnal recently received in the Centre has come 1990. A gathering ofNorth American Menno collection to the Centre for Mennonite Breth­ from Mr. William Neufeld of Winnipeg. Wil­ nite Archivists and ubrarians (NMW.) repre­ ren Studies. Consisting ofchoral and orches­ liam, long involved in mUSic-making hoth as a sentatives is being planned as well. It will he tral musical scores and numerous hymnals, cellist and a singer, donated some 44 hymn held in Winnipeg during M\X1C sessions time hoth German and English, the collection in books, two hand·wrinen books as well as two in July, 1990. many ways represents a composite of over 60 older periodicals concentrating on church Note: An audio·visual dealing with archives vears of music-making and education among hymnody. entitled, "It's News to Me" is availahle from Mennonites in Canada. A numher of the hooks in this collection the Centres mentioned ahove. Ben and Esther Horch have heen part ofthe were entirely new to the large hvmnal collec­ Mennonite Church community in Winnipeg tion housed in the Centre. The addition of from the beginning of the first Mennonite these books, together with those in the Horch congregation in Winnipeg, then the "lorth Collection, brings the number of items on Films and Videos End Mennonite Brethren Church. Both have this theme to more than a thousand volumes. taught and worked in a variety of positions, The following films and videos are avail­ including responsihilities on the facully of able for purchase or rental from the Centre for the Mennonite Brethren Bihle College. As CENTRE FOR MB Studies, 169 Riverton Ave., Winnipeg, early as 1934 Ben hegan 3 long career as 3 Manitoba, R2L 2E5. music workshop leader (Kurseleiter), even­ tually becoming the leading Mennonite Breth­ ]6 mm ren Kurseleiter in Canada. The Mennonite Brethren Church: A Mission­ A finding aid to this large collection is ary Movement. Rental fee: $25.00/film (3 in heing prep3red. The Horches, prior to donat­ series). ing the music and hooks, had sorted the col The Hutterites: To Careor Not to Care. Ren­ lection, placing it into a velY usable state. tal fee: $75.00 for one·hour film. Therefore, students and scholars can make immediate use of the collection. Video (VHS) As a token of appreciation for this collec­ tion, the Centre for Mennonite Brethren Stud­ MENNONITE The Mennonite Brethren Church: A Mission­ ies held an aftem(xlIl reception for the Horches ary Movement. Rental fee: $7.00/video (3 in BRETHREN series); purchase: $60.00 for the set. on December 6. ExpreSSing appreciation were William Baerg ofthe MBBC music faculty, and STUDIES IN The Birth of A nabaptism (with Dr. Abe Ken Reddig, director of the Centre. CANADA Friesen). Rental fee: P.OO; purchase: $32.00. 1·169 Alverton Ave .. Wmnlpeg. MB R2l 2E5 • (204) 669·6575 A rchives: The Inside Story (Introduction to Anyone interested in viewing this collec­ Using Archives). Rental fee: P.oo; purchase: tion is invited to visit the Centre. $40.00. Page 6 Reflections on the Russian Mennonite Bicentennial Symposium

by Peter Rempel

19H9 will surely he regarded as the hegin­ ning ofa new era in Russian Mennonite stud­ ies. 111e Russian Mennonite Symposium held in Winnireg, Novemher 9-11, 19H9, will he included, with the ruhlication of several major summative hooks [None But Saints. The Transformation of Mennonite Life in Russia, 1789-1889 hy James Urry (Hyrerion Press) ;lnd Mennonites in Russia. Essays in H on011 r ofGerhard Lohrenz, edited hyJohn Friesen (CMBC Puhlications) J and with an­ other symrosium in this field held in West Germany, as an harhinger of the new era. The Winnireg symrosium was sponsored by the several Canadian centres for Menno­ nites studies. Through rresentations ofexcel­ lent historical research, with serious attention to the Russian context, and with startling The Whitewater, Manitoba, Orchestra (ca. 1929-1933). William Neufeld is the young observations and fresh perspectives even man playing the cello. Photo: Centre for MB Studies. Winnipeg impassioned appeals, a challenge was issued for a new approach to Russian Mennonite historical studies and publications. tions. This challenge was well received bythe Mennonites in Russia Book Mennonite social and economic develop­ audience. It is supported by seemingly immi· ments in the pre-revolutionary period were nent cooperation with Soviet scholars and Launched placed into their national context by Len access to archives in the USSR, the growing Friesen. The Soviet context for Mennonites as study ofthe Russian/Soviet Mennonite expe· Mennonites in Russia, 1788-1988 came a religious communitywas elucidated byWal­ rience among the immigrants from the USSR off the press on December 1. The follOWing ter Sawatsky. James Urry's prolegomena of a to West Germany, and the new freedom for week, on December 7, about fifry people study ofMennonite society 1860-1914, based Mennonite church life in the Soviet Union. gathered at the Mennonite Heritage Centre to on a review ofavailable records, and George Ironically this renaissance in Russian Menno· "launch" the new publication. Epp's initial summation of original research nite studies coincides with the apparent ter· The book, sponsored by the CMC History­ oforal and informal sources on the 1930s and mination ofthe Mennonite presence through Archives Committee, is subtitled, Essays in 1940s provided Significant new insights and mass emigration. Honour ofGerhard Lohrenz. Editor Dr. John information with the promise of more to Friesen of CMBC presented the book to sev­ come. The presentations ofthree recent emi­ Peter H. Rempel is Program Director for eral members of the family of Gerhard Loh­ grants from the USSR, Johannes Dyck,Johannes Mennonite World Conference, Canada, Inc. renz, who passed away in 1986. Mr. Lohrenz Reimer and Anna Janzen, introduced alterna­ spent a good deal ofhis life and energy shar­ tive historical perspectives as well as critical Advertisements for the ing information about the Russian Mennonite evaluations of the Russian Mennonite com­ story, and the book will, it is hoped, carry on munity, shaped as it has been by the traumatic Mennonite Historian this concern. experiences of the Mennonites who have The Mennonite Historian invites adver­ The launching was held on the occasion of remained there until the present. tisements for: celebrating the 10th anniversary ofthe Herit­ Hitherto unresearched diaries and other Books: Genealogies, family histories, biogra· age Centre facilities. In his comments, Dr. original documents allowed Adolf Ens to phies, historical monographs, novels and David Schroeder noted the contribution of illuminate the fascinating episode of the translations of general interest to the reader· the P.W. Enns family in making the Centre selection ofchurch leaders by the first group ship of the Historian. possible. Mr. Lohrenz had a part to play in this ofsettlers. On the basis ofthe David andJacob Notices of Events: Family gatherings, meet· project as well. Joanna Enns received a copy Epp diaries, Harvey Dyck could recount vil­ ings, school and community reunions of of the book on behalf of the Enns family. lage life as observed and experienced by a general interest to the readership of the Mennonites in Russia includes fifteen essays teacher in the last half ofthe 18oos_ To com­ Historian. and an extensive bibliography. It may be plete the symposium there were informative ordered from the Mennonite Heritage Centre, Cost of advertisements are as follows: synopses of vital aspects of Russian Menno­ or bought at local bookstores for $22.50 per Full page $175 nite life: on Mennonite state service by law­ copy. Half page $90 rence Klippenstein, on notions of Gemeinde Less than half page $10 per 3 cm colurn n by John Dyck, on the emerging Mennonite intelligentsia by Harry Loewen and on the Most advertisements for books can be con· unique estate-owning class (the Gutsbesitzer) tained in a 3 em column or9 lines of40 spaces by AI Reimer. per line. Advertisements longer than 3 cmwill The newand differing academic approaches, be charged $3.33/cm. The minimum charge research focii and historical critiquesseverely is $10.00. Contact the Mennonite Heritage ra MENNONITES challenged the traditional history of Russian Centre orCentre for Mennonite Brethren Stud· Mennonites, a challenge evident by an open­ ies (Winnipeg) for further information. For ~~~~,~!~ ness to include negative as well as positive addresses and phone numbers see at bottom trends and to re-appraise prevailing evalua- of page 2. Page 7 In Memory of Stimmten mit gleichen Thonen an buden, West Prussia," Mennonite Historian Was Gott del' Herr durch sie gethan. XV, No.3 (September, 1989), 4. An early, Aeltester Cornelius Regier detailed account ofthis visit was published in Bald redet er mit sein Gefaert Johann van del' Smissen, "Zur Geschichte del' byJobnDyckandLawrenceKlippenstein A1s er ihm aufgetragen ersten Gemeindebildung in den Mennoniten­ Das BischofSamt5 Wenn er zu Erd Kolonien SOdruBlands," Mennonitische Bldt­ Here we present a final excerpt from the Gebracht wird, sollte sagen ter III (March-]uly, 1856),18-21,34-37,4951 poem about Altester Cornelius Regier and his Die Worte so in Roemer schoen 2Regier's birth year, given here as 1742, is 1794 visit to the New Russian colony ofChor­ Wird Acht Capitel vierzehn stehn. erroneously noted as 1743 in Mennonite titza, founded five years earlier. 1 Perhaps a Gott nahm ihm aus dem Jammerthal Encyclopedia, IV, 273. Cf. the Heubuden fuller study of this venture undertaken by Fuehrt ihm ins Reich del' freuden Mennonite Church register which notes that Regier and his church colleague, Cornelius Erloeste ihm aus diesel' Quahl Regier was 51 'h years ofage at the time of his Warkentin, will be undenaken in the furure. Nach dreiszig taegiges leiden death_ Microfilm No. 284, Mennonite Herit· Acopyofthe complete German text can be Versetzte ihm in Abrahams Schoosz age Centre Archives (MHCA). obtained from the Mennonite Heritage Centre. Und unter Gottes Altar blosz6 . 'Regier commented on his work in letters to Rev. Gerhard Wiebe in Prussia, cf. G. Wiehe Del' dieses Amt uns lange Zeit Wir all zusammen stimmten an memoirs, unpublished, handwritten manu­ Auch weit u breit Bediente Staadt freuden sollens lallen script copy in MHCA (uncatalogued), 275­ Er war geliebt von aile Leut Wehklagen fast ein jeder mann 276. On the preaching activity of Warkentin In dem nul' gutes gruehnte Die Krohn ist abgefallen during this visit, d. P.M. Friesen, Die Alt­ Ein Mann alt zwey u fuenf.lig Jahr2 o wahl' ach, uns Oberhaupt evangelische mennonitische Briiderschaft Aeltester drey u zwanzig war. Hat uns ein frueher Todt geraubt. (Halbstadt, 1911), 134-135. Warkentin was later given a medal by Tsar Alexander I in Oem schickt del' liebe Gott dahin Da war sein Mittgefaerdt allein recognition ofservices rendered on behalfof Mit einem wie wir wissen, Del' sich sehr taedt betrueben 3 the new settlers at Chortitza. £5 war Cornelius Warkentin Er waltet da in del' Gemein 4Warkentin kept a diary of this trip. It was Del' sich auch thaet entschliessen Als Bischof wie geschrieben published in Mennonitische Rundschau, No. Sie schaeuten beid in ihrem Fach Bedient mit Tauf u Abendmahl 4, 1897. It is possible that Regier became sick Zum naechsten Heil kein Ungemach.. Dazu erwente Lehrer wahl. . during this arduous five-week trip (errone­ Es war im Maerz die abschiedzeit, Ein Mensch kann wieder Gottes Rath ouslydated 1795 in Mennonite Encyclopedia, Oem Manne zu begleiten Und Willen nichts anfangen IV, 888) Die Lehrer von del' einer seit Weil Gott es so beschlossen hat 'This private ordination was confirmed a Kinder zur andern Seiten So ist es auch ergangen year later by the Rosenorter Mennonite Church Doch erste mit viel traurigkeit Herr schenk uns wieder einen Mann at Tiegenhagen. Cf. Ernst Regehr, et aI, eds., Bis in den Wagen ihm Begleit. Del' seine Stell betreten kann. Geschichts- und Predigertabelle der Mennoni­ Betraenten Wangen traurigs Herz tengemeinde Rosenort (Elbing, n.d.), 7. Wer koennt es wohl ansehen Endnotes 6Regier died on May 30 and his funeral was Wie sehr betruebt mit was fuel' SChmerz held on June 3,1794. Among the 451 guests 1st dieses wohl geschehen 'TIle first part appeared as "In Memory of was the director of the colony, Baron von Den Vater von hir reisen sehen Aeltester Cornelius Regier (1742-1794), Heu- Brackel. Durch Berg u Thall als sollt geschehn. Auch unterwegs Prueft sie Gott Book Reviews Russia is Heinrich Loewen, In Vergessenheit Durch seine A11machts Proben (cont'd from p. 8) gemtene BeZiehungen. Friihe Begegnungen Er stand sie bei in ihrer Noth der Mennoniten-Brli.dergemeinde mit dem Wo fuel' sie ihn stets loben hotels and restaurants in Poland, as well as Baptismus in Ruflland - ein Uberblick So sind sie unter Gottes Hand Polish consulates in the USA and Canada. (Bielefeld: Logos-Verlag GmbH, 1989, 94 Gesund gekommen in das land. This interesting and informative booklet is pp.). The first volume of Beitrage zur osteu­ an excellent introduction to an important ropaischen Kirchengeschichte, this work was Ihnen teaf erblickt da jeder ging segmentofMennonite histoty. Its most impor­ originally presented as a thesis at Mennonite Die liebe Gaest entgegen tant function may be that it brings the Men­ Brethren Biblical Seminary in Fresno. It traces Mit Thraenenfreud man ihn empfing nonite story alive by highlighting the geo­ relations between Mennonite Brethren and Die Zeit war gleich gelegen graphy of the lands and cities within which Baptists in Russia-USSR from 1837, well before Nach einigen Tagen auszuruhn Mennonites lived. the formal organization of (he MB Church, Die Oster Predigt darzuthun... through to the end of World War 1. D). John Friesen is Associate Professor ofHis­ Nun war da Tauf u Abendmahl tory and Theology at the Canadian Menno­ Erst Glaubenslehr muss Walten nite Bible College, Winnipeg, Manitoba. Books Received Hernach auch eine Lehrerwahl In neuung daw halten Book Notes Donald B Kraybill, The Riddle ofAmish A1lein als diesel' Iiebe Mann Culture (Baltimore:]ohns Hopkins Univer­ Acht Predigten da hat gethan... Colin P. Neufeldt, "The Fate ofMennonites sity Press, 1989), 304 pp., hdc., US$ 35.00, Zur hinreis bracht fuenf Wochen Zeit in Soviet Ukraine and the Crimea during the pb., US$ 8.95. Grad Dreizig Tag zu fahren Soviet Collectivization and the Famine (1928­ Theron F. Schlabach, Peace, Faith, Nation: Wie uns die Nachricht hat erfreut 1933)," (1989, 2 volumes, 674 pp.) is a Mennonites andAmish in Nineteenth Cen­ 1st kaum zu offenbahren detailed study from primary sources of the tury America (SCottdale/Kitchener: Herald Press, 1988). Mennonite Experience in Amer­ A1lein von krankheit er nicht meldte Mennonite experience during Stalin's deku­ Die sich zu ihm schon hat gesellt.4 lakization and collectivization, including the ica, Volume 2, 415 pp., pb., $24.95. famine of 1932-33. Neufeldt compiled this Dr. Mary PercyJackson, as told to Cornelia Da name die Krankheit ueberhand research report as part ofhis graduate work at Lehn, The HomemadeBrassPlate. The Story Hielt gleich schwach ihm darnieder the University of Albena. Of a Pioneer Doctor in Northern Alberta Sein Mittgefaert oft beye ihm stand Among the publications springing from the (Sardis, B.C.: Cedar-Cott Enterprise, 1988), Sie beid a1s Iiebe Brueder 200th anniversary ofMennonite settlement in 215 pp., pb., $11.00. Page H BOOK REVIEWS inSightful "The Changing Role of Biblical! sentences and varied styles, as well as a uni­ Theological Education in the Mennonite Breth­ que vocabularyand idiomatic phrases. He has Dueck, A.]., H.]. Giesbrecht and VG. Shilling· ren Church." One onlywishes his statistics on preserved the spirit and sense ofthe original ton, eds., 1beBibleandtheChurch: Essays in the formal education ofcanadian MB leaders yet produced a highly readable narrative. Set­ honour ofDr. David Ewert (Winnipeg, MB had included the last thirty years, since the tlement and village maps as well as photo­ and Hillsboro, KS: Kindred Press, 1988). 277 last three decades would surely also consti­ graphs further enhance the volume. TIl is pub­ pp, hdc, $19.95. tute a significant further shift, if not in kind lication is an excellent resource for the then degree. English-speaking student researching a paper Reviewed by Thomas R. Yoder Neufeld. In conclusion, one could add that the copy­ or English-speaking Mennonites searching editing of the volume is generally good, for their roots. It is a pleasure to review a Festschrift honouring a former teacher and fellow church although the persistent replacement of the Umlaut with an "e" is annoying, and, given John B. Toews is Professor of History at member. In this volume the edirors have col· Regent College, Vancouver, British Columbia. lened fourteen essays from a variety of col· contemporary technology, wholly unneces­ leagues and friends, reflecting Ewert's close sary. This reviewer commends the editors for ties to the Mennonite Brethren Bible College, an interesting and helpful collection ofessays honouring a great teacher and servant of the to c< >Ileagues ofother Mennonite institutions, Klassen, Peter]. A HomelandforStrangers. and, in the case ofBruce Metzger, to one who church. An Introduction to Mennonites in Polarld shares Ewert's scholarly interest in tex'tual his· and Prussia (Fresno, CA: Center for Menno­ tory and criticism. Tom Neufeld teaches in Religious Studies at nite Brethren Studies, 1989). 95 pp., ph., After an informative biographical sketch by Conrad Grebel College, Waterloo, Ontario. $18.00. Herbert Giesbrecht, who also furnishes an Reviewed by john Friesen. exhaustive bibliography of Ewert's writings, the essays fall into the two general categories For four centuries Mennonites lived along of "The Bible" and "The Church." The two Toews, c.P., Heinrich Friesen :lOd Arnold the Vistula (Wisla) River lowlands from Thorn headings aptly signify the twin, inter· related Dyck. The Kuban Settlement. (Winnipeg: to Danzig (Torun to Gdansk). At the end of areas within which Ewert has made his con· CMBC Publications and Manitoba Mennonite World War II these settlements came to an tribution The essays also serve two distinct if Historical Society, 1989, Echo-Verlag, 19'53). abrupt and violent end. The inhabitants dis­ overlapping constituencies, one being the Trans. Herb Giesbrecht. 109 pp., pb., $9.00. persed to Germany, Canada and Latin America. scholarly, the other the church constituency. Reviewed by John B. Toews. The story of the Mennonites who lived Ewert's scholarship has chiefly sereed pastors. along the Vistula River during Polish, Prussian It is the (aller who are the primary constit· Mthe end ofWorld War II Russian Menno­ and German administrations has become a uency for these essays, it would appear. nite emigres in Canada initiated a historical forgotten story, especially for English readers. -nle preoccupation of the articles in the series aimed at preserving the stories of the For German readers Horst Penner has pro­ second half of the book is thus, not surpris· various Mennonite settlements in Russia. These vided a detailed history in his two volume, ingly, with preaching, both as ro its place and researchers, led by the editor, writer and Die os(- und west preussischen Mennoniten methods. Of note here are the essays by humorist Arnold Dyck, hased their narratives (Weierhof, 1978, 1987). However, very little Elmer Martens, "From Text to Sermon",john on official documents, personal and collec· has been published for English·language Regehr, "Preaching that Delights", the late tive memory, or even on anecdotes circulat­ readers. This book helps to bring this story Frank C. Peters "Evangelical Preaching and ing within the community. Their task was alive for them as well. Pastoral Care", and Ewert's own "Preach the characterized hy a sense of well-founded Peter Klassen's booklet is an introduction Word." David Schroeder's "Discerning What urgency. Death was gradually depleting the both to the story and to the lands in which is Bound in Hea\'en: Binding and Loosing" emigres' community in the late forties and these people lived. The book is not, strictly will be read by pastors as both prod and early fifties. Their success was our gain. The speaking, a historical study. It includes a var­ encouragement. series, published under the logo "Echo­ iety of material, all of which is designed to Most ofthe essays appear to have a didactic Verlag," saved our knowledge of less known introduce the reader to the area and to the or an introductory intent. Bruce Metzger's Russian Mennonite settlements from extinc· people. "History of Editing the Greek New Testa· tion. In the first half of the book Klassen pro· ment" might well be seen as a precis of The newly-translated Kltban Settlement is a vides a briefhistorical overview ofthe history Ewert's own extensive biblical introduction, typical example of the series. It seeks to ofMennonites along theVistula from the 16th From Ancient Tablets to Modem Translations: depict the life l..1'cle of the settlement ­ to the 20th centuries. Anumber ofvelY help­ A General Introduction to the Bible, 1983. founding, golden age and dissolution. The ful maps are included. The centre section The exceptions might be john E. Toews' authors do so with a surprising degree of features nine color photos of former Menno­ "Women in Church Leadership," an exegesis detachment and objectivity. Though amateur nite church buildings. Each photo includes a , of 1 Tim. 2:11-15, and George Shillington's historians, they display a sense ofbreadth and description ofthe present use ofthe buildings. ,~ "Imaginative Participation in Parable Inter· maturity. The book touches upon commerce, In the latter part of the book Klassen sur­ j pretation," but even there the introductory industry and agriculture, as well as the cultu­ veys the fate ofthese lands after World War II, I objective is clearly visible. ral and religious life ofthe colony. There is an identifies the countries to which Polish/Prus­ I There is also the occasional polemical obvious pride in what once was and an sian Mennonites emigrated, and provides the ! note, reflecting engagement with contentious obvious sadness at its passing. Short yet com­ reader with a tourist's view of present-day ! issues in present MB life, such as the place prehensive chapters lead the reader through Danzig (Gdansk) and surrounding areas. The I and role ofwomen in the church. Both john the eras of private agriculture, revolution and major emphasis is on this latter section. E. Toews and HerbertSchwartz, "Women and emigration. Those who stayed behind not Klassen takes the readeron a detailed walking the Church: Biblical and Theological Perspec­ only endured forced collectivization but arrest tour ofDanzig (Gdansk), pointing out impor­ tives," make a strong appeal for full participa· and depoL1ation. The first line ofthe last para­ tant historical sites, buildings, and events. In tion ofwomen in the life and ministry ofthe graph in the book is a poignant ending to the the process he tells the history of Danzig church, quite consciously going beyond narrative: "A Mennonite Kuban Colony no (Gdansk), Poland, and the Mennonites in the Ewert's own draWing ofthe line at ordination. longer exists." area. His tour includes the cities of Elbing Both, however, are in my view hampered in The publishers can be justly proud of this (Elblag), Malbork (Marienburg), and Thorn their objective bya traditional view ofPauline first English volume of the Echo Historical (Thorun), as well as cemetery sites in the authorship. Series. Translator Giesbrecht has done a first countryside. To complete the tourist informa­ Noteworthy, finally, is Abe]. Dueck's bridg· class job ofdealing with a German text that is tion Klassen lists addresses of travel offices, ing ofthe two sections ofthe volume with his often complex, i.e., characterized by long (cont'd on p. 7)