CUTER FOR M. B. STUDIES IN CANADA 77 HENDERSON HIGHWAY WINNIPEG, MANITOBA R2L 1L1

Volume VIII, Number 4 Mel?.,ol?ite December, 1982 Historial?

Penner, and Gerhard Huebert. Four more were elected: George Harder, Heinrich Dueck, Peter Regehr, and David Boese. Rather than choose their own elder at this point, it was decided to call on Jacob B. Wiens, Herschel, Saskatchewan to perform those duties designated only to elders, i.e. baptism and communion. Deacons were elected - Gerhard J. Baergen, and Tobias Schmidt (also later Gerhard Schmidt) - and these were given the responsibility of gathering and distributing the mission funds. A large portion of these were sent to Russia, but there was also some need within the congregation. Vorsaenger (song-leaders) were an impor­ tant part of the worship, and the first ones chosen were Gerhard Schmidt and Heinrich Voth. The hymn books that were available A Sunday school picnic of the Chinook-Sedalia congregation. The date was July 19, were the Gesaogbucb with its chorales, and 1932. Sunday School teacher G. G. Baergen is with the group. Photo courtesy of Irene the Dreibaod, a three part collection of Klassen. somewhat livelier songs. It seems that the preacher chose whichever he preferred. He would read a line or two and the Vorsaenger The Neukircher Mennonlten Gemeinde would start the singing, the preacher read the next few lines and so on throughout the von Chinook-Sedalia (1928-1950) numerous verses. Even without notes, or any By Irene Epp Klassen instrumental accompaniment, the congrega­ tion always sang in four-part harmony, and Who can say of any life, a person, a com­ already shown its vacillating climatic moods, they sang well. munity, or a congregation, that it was lived and discouraged pioneers were now eager to With high hopes and in great faith, a fully­ in vain? The Neukircher Mennoniten (Kir­ sell. Some of them were also eager to take responsible congregation stepped forth. chliche) Gemeinde von Chinook-Sedalia was advantage of these "ignorant greenhorns" Because of the great distances, two major born, budded and died, perhaps a premature and they did just that. sub-divisions were created, the South at death. But can it be said that it bore no fruit? The terms of purchase - no cash down­ Chinook and the North at Sedalia. These This is my tribute to a congregation of payment, half the crop share for up to 15 people had come from many and varied which I was a part, and which left its imprint years, plus taxes, plus seed, plus all other ex­ backgrounds in Russia, each person with his on me. penses - seemed reasonable enough in those own ideals, so during the following years in­ When, in the mid-1920s, the newly arriv­ first good years. Later they proved Quite ternal struggles did exist. ed Mennonite immigrants sought farms in disastrous. Although the group was mainly General western Canada, there was an area in eastern Before long over 300 Mennonites (about Conference, the Mennonite Brethren and the Alberta that became available. It extended 50 families) had purchased farms either Alliance were also represented, and their from the Saskatchewan border between the through the Colonization Board or private­ preachers, G. Harder, G. Huebert and C. main CNR Saskatoon to Calgary line, ly. Addresses included Chinook, Cereal, Ex­ Penner, were generally accepted. Some of the through Chinook, in the south, and the CPR cel, Naco, Sedalia, New Brigden, Esther, mission funds were divided among the Con­ line through Consort in the north - a span and Monitor. ferences; there was even a baptism service for of about 40 miles. In 1926 the CNR built a On March 14, 1928, the first brotherhood the Mennonite Brethren; Bibelbesprechungen spur line which dissected the area at Sedalia, meeting was called and the Neukircher Men­ (Bible studies) were conducted by ministers and although the train ran only once a week, noniten Gemeinde von Chinook-Sedalia was from both conferences. Some rivalry arose it did improve communication and especial­ born. William Martens, who had been large­ at times, but the people sought to settle dif­ ly grain shipment tremendously. ly responsible for collecting all the loosely­ ferences amicably, since their chosen motto The area had been settled about 20 years grouped and scattered people, was given the stated: "Let all things be done decently and earlier. However, being just within the boun­ leadership. Other ministers in the group at in order" (I Corinthians 14:40). dary of the infamous Palliser Triangle, it had that time were Heinrich Janzen, Cornelius (to be concluded) Page 2

Family Sludies U of M Genealogy Course Hughes Arnett in 1922 as a theme song fOl The Continuing Education Division of the the province ofManitoba. It appears to have MHC Genealogy Sources University of Manitoba will be offering a been laught in many schools after that. genealogy cour e beginning on February 7, ·H yOU were taught that song, and Conclusion 1983. The:: course will continue for 10 weeks, remember it, or if you can tell me something The first section of this article appeared Monday nights from 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. about that performance at the Legislative in the June, 1982 issue of Mennonite As an introductory course, the study is Building, write to: . Historian. designed to "provide a basic grounding in Ed Thornhill genealogical re earch, with emphasis on c/o Manitoba Seniors Journal Maps beginning and organizing the research pro­ 1102 Childs Bldg. These help to pinpoint origins, and create cess." Eric Jonasson, founder and past presi­ 211 Portage Ave. background information for family studies. dent of the Manitoba Genealogical Society Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 2A2 will be tbe instructor. Tuition is $65.00. P.S. The .melody and words of Genealogical Publications If interested, please contact Dr. James "Manitoba" were reprinted in Manitoba German Mennonites like RH. Unruh, G. B. Hartman or Eilain Stevenson at the Con­ Seniors Journal for utumn, 1982, p. 6. Reimer, K. Kauenhofen, etc. have publish­ inuing Education Division. Call 261-5760 or amples of the reprint are a ailable on re­ ed useful studies on Mennonite families and loll free 1-800-432-1904. quest. Enclose a tamped envelope for an names. Unruh's valuable book on the Dutch­ answer. Prussian backgrounds of the Mennonites in More on Reunions Russia is still available at the Canadian Men­ A Stoe z reunion (descendants of six FOR SALE nonite Bible College bookstore. The Centre toe z wbo came to anitoba 1874-80, also subscribes to several genealogical jour­ Mary, Anna, Katharina, Jacob, Cornelius First Mennonite hurcb in Saskatoon nals which are very helpful sometimes. and David) was celebrated on June 19-20, 1932·1.982 1982 at lhe Winkler Bible School. It was The history of the congregation from its Mennonite Historical Library at C.M.B.C. planned by Mary Wiebe of Portage la Prairie early beginnings to the present. 320 p., This may be the largest collection of Men­ .and Ed toe z of Winnipeg. George Unger 307 photos. nonite history materials in Canada. Most of of orton, III. has collected much material Price: $25.00, plus $1.60 postage. it can be used on loan from the library, and on mo .1 of the lin ofCornelius and Jacob. Order from: offers a broad selection of information for First ennonite Church background materials on family studies. The H. . Dyck family held a reunion on ugu t 14-15 in win Current, Saskat- 418 Queen Sl. chewan. he Dyck family formerly re ided Saskatoon, a katcbewan Titles useful for family studies: (brackets at Waldheim, Sask. Among the guests were S7K OM3 . show what MHC Archives has on hand). persons from Indiana and Omaha, Archiv fuer Sippenforschung (1961-1968) Nebraska. Baxter, Angus. In Search of Your Roots. A Family Album - Patkau, Harder, Krahn Guide for Canadians Seeking Their In Edenthal, Manitoba, the grandchildren Ancestors. Toronto, Macmillan of of the late Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Wiebe met A family tree of each seven generations Canada, 1978. last summer at the Rempel horne. About 600 of Jacob Paetkau (1759-1818); Marten Clues (published by the American Historical Wiebe cousins attended, some from as far Harder (l 39-1891), and Johann Krahn Society of Germans from Russia ­ away as St. John, N.B. (1763- ?) 320 p., 297 photos,plus stories. 1973-present). Price: S40.00 Doane, Gilbert H. Searching for Your Research Requests Order from: Ancestors. The How and Why of Genea­ I am looking for information about the Esther Patkau logy (Bantam Books, 1974). Paperback. family of Cornelius Huebert (1835-1897). We 2206 Wiggins Ave. Jonasson, Eric. The Canadian genealogical know that he was born at Schoenwiese in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan handbook: a comprehensive guide to fin· Ukraine, and that he married Anna Wiebe, S7J lW7 ding your ancestors in Canada. Winnipeg, a widow with four girls from an eartier mar­ Wheatfield Press, 1978. riage. Any pictures, or other information Mennonite Family History (1982- ) Meditations on a Place about the C. Huebert family would be very and a Way of Life Mitteilungen des ippenb ndes der Danziger helpful. Mennoniten Familien (l926-1939?). If you have anything, please write to: Unruh, B.H. Die niederlaendisch-nieder­ By Ken Loewen and Margaret Loewen Victor Huebert Reimer deutschen Hintergruende der mennoni­ R.R.2 tischen Ostwanderungen im 16., 18. und Ruthven, Ontario Selection of black and white photos by 19. Jabr hundert. (Karlsruhe, Germany, NOP 2GO (1955). Ken Loewen, with selected suitable text by Margaret Loewen Reimer. 128 p., pb. $14.95 For fUl:ther details write for an article en­ I am looking for information about the titled "Canadian Sources for Mennonite performance of a song entitled "Manitoba" Order from: Genealogies - The Mennonite Heritage Cen­ in the Legislative Buildings around 1927. I Mennonite Heritage Centre tre;" available free from· the Mennonite understand that a Mennonite group, possibly 600 Shaftesbury Blvd. Heritage Centre archives, 600 Shaftesbury school children, sang this song in that set­ Winnipeg, Manitoba Blvd., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Can. R3P OM4. ting. The song was composed by Jonathan R3P OM4

Mf;NNONITE HISTORIAN is published quarterly by the History Archives Committee of the Conference of Mennonites in Canada. It is edited by Lawrence Klippenstein. All correspondence and unpublished manuscripts should be sent to the editorial office at 600 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3P OM4. Subscription fee, $3.00 per year. ISSN 0700·8066. Page ~ Milestones of plants nor the one who waters is. anything, Gnadenthal Dedicates First Mennonite Church but GOD who causes the growth." (I Cor­ Its History inthians 3:7-9). Reprinted from Cburcb Family News, Mar. 15, 1982, pp. 1-4. by Peter P. Paetkau by Esther Patkau A special dedicatory service to unveil Part IV (Conclusion) Notes from Tiefengrund Gnadenthal's recently published history book took place at the new Gnadenthal The 1970s brought other changes. In July by Helen L. Funk School on Sunday, December 12, 1982. 1971 Rev. Enns left the pastorate here and Following Paul J. Peters' welcome to the Rev. Henry A. Wiens took his position in This material was preparedfor the celebra­ full house assembled for the event, Professor September of the same year. tion of the 70th anniversary of the Jake P. Redekopp, chairman of the Book To give added space and more functional Tiefengrund Mennonite Congregation, held Committee, presented the book for dedica­ room, under the intitiation of the Men's Ser­ October 1980. tion. Assisting him were representatives of vice Organization, the area between the the two church bodies which once had a place church buildings and the manse was filled in, The first church, built in 1910, was sold of worship in the village. Written "in the adding a pastor's office, a library, and Board to the Horse Lake congregation, about 25 spirit of faith, that our fathers have ex­ room, a Sunday school room, and a much miles northeast of Tiefengrund, for $1000.00 emplified," the history of Gnadenthal was appreciated lounge on the lower level. That when the second church was built in 1958. dedicated to the glory of God by Rev. Abram was in 1972. This Horse Lake congregation was one of the A. Teichroeb (Conference of Mennonites in The format of the services changed. In many outposts served faithfully by horse and Canada) and Mr. Henry H. Kuhl, Sr. (Men­ 1973 two services, one all in German held buggy or sleigh by Rev. John Regier, son of nonite Brethren Conference), both long-time during the Sunday School hours, followed Rev. Peter Regier and uncle of the present residents of the village. by an all English service, was tried, and has pastor Rev. R.A. Friesen. Noting the "commitment and dedication" continued to work well. J.J. Martens, who The little church is beautiful. The ceiling that a local history book committee must at one time served as conductor for the is high and rounded ("gewolbt") made of have in order "to record it at least in some regular choir and for many years had been narrow, varnished hardwood boards. The measure," Redekopp proceeded to introduce a member of that choir, now in 1974 took acoustics are perfect "like the inside of a the members of the committee. He requested on the directing of a German choir. beautiful guitar," as Marvin Regier former each to face the audience, so that it could Search was made for an assistant to aid director of music at R.J.C., and grandson have a good look at them while Redekopp the pastor and in 1976 Esther Patkau was in­ to Elder John Regier, said. The main area portrayed them in his own inimitable man­ stalled in that position. In 1977-1978 a young is untouched, except for upkeep, also the ner, and handed to each a gift copy of the man, John Braun, was received as a pastoral ladies' and men's rooms. The basement has Gnadenthal history. apprentice to learn by experience the work been arranged for accommodating meals at While the Committee did all the work in of ministry. That changed his course in life, weddings, funerals, etc. It was recently researching the records of Gnadenthal's past, and after further training he was ordained painted (outside walls and roof) and is ap­ as well as some preliminary writing, Pro­ as a pastor in Steinbach, Manitoba, on preciated. A small entry to the church and fessor Elizabeth Peters, from the Faculty of January 31, 1982. basement and a minister's study had already Education at the University of Manitoba, The 19805 are indicating new blessings. In been added in 1945 in Tiefengrund, at the was engaged to do the major editorial work. January 1981 the Covenant Mennonite con­ rear side. Presenting greetings to the people assembl­ gregation began meeting, and on May 31, ed here were Arnold Brown, MLA, Robert and Ellen Krahn from this congrega­ Rhineland, and Rev. Peter D. Zacharias, tion transferred their membership to become recently ordained pastor of the Blumenorter charter members there. Thus the 7th General Mennonite Church. Both men emphasized Conference Mennonite Church in Saskatoon the fact that "the book does have began. significance beyond the Gnadenthal com­ Rev. Wiens was granted a study leave in munity and the Mennonite educational the fall of 1981 to spend time at the Seminary circles. " to enrich himself and thus better to serve the The program concluded with the auction­ church. ing off of the first, second and third editions To provide better accessibility for the ones of the book by the local auctioneer Ben who have disabilities, an elevator was install­ Schellenberg. ed which meant adding a few extra feet of After the auction the 15OO-copy first prin­ new entrance on Queen Street. The dedica­ ting went on sale for the first time. Amidst tion was held December 13, 1981. coffee, cookies and glimpses guests could In the fall of 1981 Ken and Rhonda now see this new thing wrought in Gnaden­ Warkentin were hired as Ministers in Music. thaI, the pride and joy of everyone who has As we look back over five decades of this ever been associated with the community. congregation, we must in all humility say: The book, Gnadenthal1880 - 1980, is indeed Thanks be to God! It was not because of the Pat Reimer, graduate of Mennonite one of the finest local histories to be publish­ many programs, organizations or activities Brethren Collegiate Institute in Winnipeg, ed by the Mennonite community in Canada. that this church grew; nor because of the per­ Manitoba won first prize for an essay sub­ sons who have served in various roles; nor mitted to the Heritage Commission, aCMC, Note: The book can be ordered from Mrs. because of the contributions in money or in in 1982. Her essay was titled "The John Dyck, 48 Coral Cres., Winnipeg, talents that was invested here but alone Significance of the Anabaptist Vision To­ Manitoba, Canada. The cost is $25.00 plus through the blessing and grace of the Father day". Pat is presently a student at CMBC. postage. that this congregation is what it is today. Third prize winner was Audrey Falk, of Paul wrote it this way: "For we are God's Waldheim, Saskatchewan, with an essay titl­ fellow workers ... neither the one who ed "Origin of the Mennonites". Page 4 7. To complete work on a second volume Rhineland Mennonite Mennonite Heritage of the Bote Index. The first volume cover­ ing the years 1924-1947 was published in Studies Seminar Centre News 1976. by Peter B. Paetkau 8. To enter discussions with other Men­ nonite groups who might wish to work with A second Rhineland Mennonite Studies the program of the Mennonite Heritage Cen­ seminar sponsored jointly by the Manitoba Goals for 1983 tre from 1983 on. Mennonite Historical Society and the Men­ These are some ofour objectives. Natural­ nonite Heritage Centre was held in Altona by Lawrence Klippenstein Iy, we will also continue to welcome visitors, on December 11, 1982. The seminar, attended by about forty in­ At the threshold of a new year we invite and help researchers of all types as much as possible. We want to work at the program terested people and meeting in the Education all our readers to consider how a better as a part of our God-given conference Wing of the Altona Bergthaler Church, history-archives program can be developed ministry to our communities and congrega­ focused primarily on the writing of local in 1983. Four years ago in January we of­ tions, and to other people as well. Our prayer history. The general theme was examined by ficially opened the Mennonite Heritage Cen­ is that as an interested supporter you will join two very thorough study papers, and com­ tre as a symbol of a more serious effort to us in this endeavor in the months ahead. plemented by reviews of two recently understand our heritage and to interpret it published local histories on the Altona and for future generations. Fifty years ago Gnadenthal communities of southern the Conference of Mennonites in Manitoba. Canada asked B.J. Schellenberg to serve as After the usual introductions and sharing archivist so that materials for such inter­ of some projects by participants, Dr. John pretation would be on hand when needed. Donor Acknowledgments Friesen of CMBC, presented the first paper What steps shall we take now to carry for­ entitled: "Family Studies as Local History." ward this vision and this concern? We are much indebted for support in re­ In his paper Dr. Friesen discussed three Together with you, the members of our cent months to a number of persons who different approaches to genealogical studies. constituency, we propose the following goals have remembered the Centre in their giving. After noting that the original purpose of for our program at the Centre: The total of these contributions (October­ Mennonite genealogical studies, begun in I. To take another look at our many at­ December) was $1,358.00. Thank you very Europe during the 1930s, was to determine tics, closets and old trunks, also our church much! the purity of the Mennonite lineage, he pro­ nooks and crannies, in search for valuable ceeded to discuss more wholesome and documents and other records, which should Frank H. Epp, Waterloo, Ontario broader reasons for engaging in genealogical be placed in the archives. We want to under­ Peter Letkemann, Lethbridge, Alberta research, urging genealogists to put their take a stronger collection program so that Elmer Reimer, Winnipeg, Manitoba studies within the perspective of Anabaptist­ additional valuable items can be preserved John P. Friesen, Headingley, Manitoba Mennonite history. in proper archival facilities. An "archives in Helen Janzen, Winnipeg, Manitoba Genealogy can contribute toward an the attic" meeting, perhaps several, will be S. A. Derksen, Langham, Saskatchewan understanding of local history by including planned - with more details to follow. B. Hoeppner, Vancouver, B.C. beyond the context such specifics as diaries, 2. To set up a schedule for monthly public LaVerna Klippenstein, Winnipeg, Manitoba travelogues, writings and sermons produc­ gatherings at the Heritage Centre where con­ A. P. Toews, Furguson, Missouri ed by members of a family, Dr. Friesen said, cerns of Mennonie church life, history, Etta S. Schmitt, Goshen, Indiana and is merely one way of recording history. literature and community development can Emil O. Toews, Sacramento, California Since "it is one window into the movement be considered and discussed. Wm. Friesen, Winnipeg;' Manitoba of a people, one should make it as good as 3. To prepare additional finding aids and K. Giesbrecht, Port Alberni, B.C. ' possible so that the values, the beliefs and registers for the collections already on file. Linda Thiessen, Mather, Manitoba the issues of a people can be handed on to Two new staff members, Marilyn Froese and Tina Gollan, Edmonton, Alberta the next generation," he advised in Mark Froese, with us since December 13, Jacob Mantler, Winnipeg, Manitoba conclusion. 1982, will be working on this with regular Arthur B. Hoock, Langley, B.C. After the discussion following the review members of the staff. Jacob G. Guenter, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan of the Gnadenthal history book by Peter D. 4. To complete our "Mini-Centre" for Anton W. Dyck, Lowe Farm, Manitoba Zacharias, a second paper was read by Bet­ children. This will be a mobile display of Donald' L. Klippenstein, Minneapolis, ty L. Dueck on "How to Write Local books, photographs, audio-visuals, games, Minnesota History." "I learned to research local etc. which we hope to loan to churches and Henry Siemens, Victoria, B.C. history," she began, "the 'guess and by gol­ schools for heritage education and apprecia­ H.H. Goertzen, Winnipeg, Manitoba ly' way." She was now going to share pro­ tion purposes. The lending library part of it per methods about research and writing, and is already finished, and groups are invited so went into detail about that process, citing to write us to obtain the list of books some simple guidelines derived from her own available. writing experience, and in effect discussed, 5. To provide workshops and seminars New Staff Help among other things, such matters as methods for interested communities in various areas of filing information, working with a history of our conference. The first one this year is Two CMBC graduates, Marilyn Froese committee, gleaning information from the planned for Leamington, in March. More in­ and Mark Froese of Wheatley, and St. archives and assembling photo collections. formation will be forthcoming. Catharines, Ontario respectively, recently Followed by some interesting reviews and 6. To provide a directory of all joined the MHC archives staff. They will be discussion of the Altona history, a report newspapers, periodicals, newsletters, etc. staying for six months under a federal about the Altbergthal School Preservation now available at MHC. As well, a list of government employment grant. Their tasks project and reference to developing a holdings in the Mennonite Historical Library include preparing inventories (e.g. of museum facility in Altona, the seminar con­ of CMBC will hopefully be completed this periodicals), microfilming, sorting, catalogu­ cluded with a tour of the Friesen's printing year. ing and research assistance. plant. Page 5 Russo-Ukrainian Studies (cont. from column 1) 400. Both congregations meet in the same meetinghouse. Persistent efforts to secure permission to build a separate Kirchliche meetinghouse have been repeatedly refused. There is yet hope, however, that such 'an undertaking will become possible. Karaganda Mennonites: The Baptist church in Karaganda has a Invited to Strasbourg membership of 1,500, of which probably 70 per cent are German speaking. Many of these A long-delayed hope came to fruition in persons share a Mennonite Brethren Karaganda, U.S.S.R. on September 16, background. 1982. A Mennonite World Conference In addition to visiting the two congrega­ delegation of four persons spent one day in tions and the two elders in Karaganda, the that long closed city. delegation also made contact in Novosibirsk The delegation was comprised of Carl with the Kirchliche Mennonite congregation. Brusewitz, vice presi<\ent of MWC; Jacob Bernhard Sawatsky, another member of the Pauls, MWC Executive Committee member; delegation to Wichita in 1978, serves here as Abram Enns, pastor of Enkenbach Men­ elder. A visiting elder, Johann Schellenberg nonite Church; and Paul N. Kraybill, MWC from Tokmak, was also present. Executive Secretary. This visit was part of Highlight of the tour was an opportunity a 12-day tour of the Soviet Union. The visit to extend an invitation to the XI Mennonite followed upon invitation by the All-Union ~. World Conference, to be held in Strasbourg Council of Evangelical Christians-Baptists, in 1984. host for the official delegation. A member ~! It seemed clear that such a delegation of the Council, Rev. Jacob Fast, served as I.· would be possible if the Kirchliche Men­ guide for the tour. This greeting card, wishing the receiver nonite were willing to seek the help of the The crowded schedule included a morn­ best wishes for a good Christmas and a Hap­ All-Union Council in arranging the joint ing gathering with 100 local ministers and py New year, was submitted to Der Bote by delegation. However, the Council of leaders. Lunch followed in the home of a reader, David Neudorf, of West Germany. Religious Affairs, and the Baptist Union Heinrich Goertzen, Mennonite Brethren Neudorfspent some time in a Soviet prison both confirmed that the Kirchliche congrega­ leader who was part of the MWC delegation camp at Vorkuta in the Soviet Arctic region. tions should make the selection of their four from the U.S.S.R. to the 1978 Tenth Cards like this were drawn by the inmates delegates. Assembly of MWC in Wichita, Kansas. and sent to friends at Christmas time. The Kirchliche elders responded favorably The usual obligatory city tour was unique­ to the invitation and the procedural sugges­ ly different. Instead of visiting the typical tions. Excerpted from a report by Paul N. landmarks and memorials, the delegation Kraybill in MWC Newsletter, December, was accompanied by 15 or 20 people in a tour 1982, pp. 1, 9. of the city's remarkable variety of churches. Visits were brief, but were concluded each time with songs, sung together by the group Mennonite and Baptist elders in Karaganda, Soviet Union visit with a "MWC" delega­ before leaving the church building. The tour tion in September, 1982. Rev. Julius Siebert, an elder of the Kirchliche Mennonite con­ included the Mennonite, Pentecostal, Or­ gregation in Karaganda is the second man from the left. thodox, Catholic and Baptist churches. Time constraints prevented a visit to the Lutheran and Adventist churches. Scheduling problems necessitated the plan­ ning of two services for that evening. A joint Kirchliche Mennonite and Mennonite Brethren service was held in the Mennonite meetinghouse, and a second service was held in the Baptist church. Twice during that day the delegation shared in a meal with the Mennonite and Baptist leaders after church services. These occasions provided opportunity for discus­ sion, questions, fellowship and sharing. Among others, Julius Siebert, elder of the Kirchliche Mennonite congregation, and Heinrich Goertzen,elder of the autonomous Mennonite Brethren congregation, par­ ticipated in the discussion. The Mennonite Brethren church in Karaganda is an autonomous congregation and is registered. Its membership totals 1,046. The Kirchliche Mennonite congrega­ tion also registered, has a membership of (cont. in column 3) Page 6 member of the MHSC will be asked to at­ for his translation of a book on MB church MHSC tend the annual meeting of IMS in January. development in the USSR, written by * MHSC has agreed to become joint spon­ Heinrich and Gerhard Woelk. sor of a Jacob Y. Shantz biography being The presidents respectively of the MHS prepared for the Bicentennial year in On­ and MMHS are Shirley Smith, chief archivist tario. Sam Steiner, Frank Epp and Lorna at the Hudson Bay Archives in Winnipeg, MHSC Meeting Notes Bergey are members of a local editorial com­ and Dr. Victor Doerksen, chairman of the mittee for this project. German Dept. at the University of The annual meeting of Mennonite • It was agreed that MHSC will become Manitoba. Historical Society of Canada was held on the official sponsor of a publication portray­ December 4, 1982. Twenty persons, in­ ing geographical distribution of Mennonite cluding the five-member executive were and Brethren in Christ congregations in FOR SALE present. Ontario. Growing up Mennonite The following items re: information and * A proposal for preparing a audio visual decisions are of note: on Canadian Mennonite archives was ac­ Stories by the people. Over 150 entries * The MHSC constitution is to undergo cepted. $1500.00 was placed in the budget and anecdotes collected by Menno Klaus. revision. Ted Friesen of MHSC and Dr. for this project to be completed in 1983. 70 p., pb. John Friesen, of CMBC were appointed to * Frank Epp shared information about Price: $4.50' plus postage serve. A third member will be nominated by participating in the International Doukhobor Order from: the Manitoba Mennonite Historical Society. Intergroup symposium held at Castlegar, Donovan Friesen Provincial societies reported regional * B.C. in June, 1982. Lawrence Klippenstein Box 504 events. Ontario will be working hard on was also present at this symposium. It was Cayuga, Ontario preparations for the Bicentennial celebra­ agreed that the Society should express its NOA lEO tions in 1986. Manitoba sponsored a joint gratitude for this invitation, and its will­ meeting with the Manitoba Historical Society ingness to remain in dialogue with the German Canadian Yearbook in November. A major publication project Doukhobor community of Canada. The German-Canadian Yearbook informs being envisioned is the publication of a Representatives of the provincial societies you about the most recent research of all critical edition (possibly four volumes) of Ar­ appointed to the board of MHSC for 1983 German speaking groups and individuals, nold Dyck writings. A brochure on the or­ include: Gerhard I. Peters (B.C.), Dick H. starting with Prince Rupert of the Rhine who thography of Low German writings is being Epp (Sask. Alta.), Ted Friesen (Man.), Lor­ in 1670 became the founder of Rupert's Land prepared, as is a register of Mennonite na Bergey (Ont.), Herbert Giesbrecht and the Hudson's Bay Company (cf. Year­ cemeteries in Manitoba. (member at large). book VI, 1981). A survey of available artifacts, and a series Well known authors of Mennonite, and of of oral histories, have been completed by First MHS - MMHS other German cultural groups, contribute to students working for MHSSA. The a variety of related concerns. Saskatchewan-Alberta society has helped to Joint Meeting Volumes II to VI (1975-1981) are still initiate the organization of a museum socie­ The Manitoba Mennonite Historical available for $19.00 a volume, incl. postage ty in Rosthern, Saskatchewan. Alberta Society held its first joint meeting with the for shipping. members are being encouraged to form their Manitoba Historical Society on November Order from: own provincial organization. British Colum­ 16, 1982. About 75 persons attended a pro­ Historical Society of Mecklenburg bia has recently published a book Remember gram at the Mennonite Heritage Centre, on Upper Canada Our Leaders, written by G. I. Peters. Work the CMBC campus in Winnipeg. P.O. Box 193, Station "K" is continuing on the Museum in Clearbrook. [n the format of the Manitoba Historical Toronto, Ontario M4P 2G7 * The chairman of MHSC reported that Society the program featured a lecture, in the papers of the Mennonite State of the Arts this instance, on the establishment of reserves MHSO Genealogy Conference (Toronto, June, 1982) will be in Southern Manitoba. A comparison was published in the first issue of Journal of presented with slides on the beginnings of the Committee Formed Mennonite Studies, scheduled for January, Roseau Indian Reserve, just east of Letellier, The Genealogy Committee of the Men­ 1983. The Journal is being prepared by the Manitoba, and the two Mennonite reserves nonite Historical Society of Ontario held its Chair of Mennonite Studies at the Universi­ on the east and west sides of the Red River. first meeting at Conrad Grebel College on ty of Winnipeg. Interested persons may write Speaker Lawrence Klippenstein noted the Thursday evening, November 18, 1982. Lor­ to Dr. Harry Loewen, Chair of Mennonite difficulties of getting efficient government raine Roth is chairman; Alan Dettweiler, Studies, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, action to carry through the arrangements of vice-chairman; Helen Freeman, secretary. Manitoba. Treaty No. I (1871) so that the boundaries The secretary outlined the committee's goal: * Frank Epp prCS{:nted information on the of Roseau could be firmly set out (some dif­ to record information found on tombstones, proposed publication of Vol. III and IV of ficulties persist to the present day). For Men­ set up a filing system, promote the collecting Mennonites in Canada. Grant money will be nonites it was not nearly as complicated to of family pictures, and assist those who are applied for. get land settlements because "they were working on their own family histories. • The board passed the following resolu­ among the settlers desired by the province Frank Epp spoke on the reasons for the tions on a suggested new edition of Men­ in the 1870s. existence of a genealogy society, illustrating nonite Encylopedia: "That the MHSC go on Roger Townshend, researcher at TARR his interesting lecture with his own family record as strongly favoring the publication (Treaty and Aboriginal Rights Research) genealogy. The House of Heinrich, as well of a new and thoroughly revised edition of research centre, brought some up-to-date in­ as other genealogical charts and books. the Mennonite Encylopedia, that it com­ formation about significant recent efforts in D. Douglas Millar municate this sentiment to the Institute of community development at the Roseau Mennonite Studies and Herald Press, and af­ Reserve. Several persons were acknowledg­ The material on this page was supplied firm its own willingness to assist in the ed for new publications: Mary Enns, of Win­ by the Mennonite Historical Society of preparation of Canadian Mennonite nipeg, in writing the book Mia (the story of Canada. materials for the revised Encyclopedia." A Mrs. A. A. DeFehr), and Victor Doerksen Page 7 Visit Book Reviews with two other women and a man. . THE HEART OF EUROPE Russia's doors had closed. Mia .an(f a See the Church's Story friend fled to the Russian-Chinese border, hoping to reach America eventually. *Neuwied/Frankfurt - centres for MCC Midst fears of discovery by Russian border *Strassbourg, the future site of Men­ John Hofer, David Wiebe and Gerhard patrols, of drowning while crossing the two nonite World Conference Ens. The History of the Hutterites Elie, km. wide Amur River, and of guides who *Zurich - home "town" for Zwingli and Manitoba, 1982. 108 p., pb. $5.00 History might turn them in to Russian authorities at Conrad Grebel of the Hutterites Workbook, to accompany the other side, Mia, her friend, and several *Prague • the place of Johannes Hus above. pb., 67 p., $1.50; AnSwer Keysand men dared to escape Russia. *Wittenberg - cradle of the Reformation Review Tests to Workbook. pb., 21 p., Harbin, China, had become a refuge for *East and West Berlin - with the Men- $1.25. Reviewed by Mark Froese, Mennonite, Mennonites. Mia and Anna reached this nonites today Heritage Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba . comparatively safe haven without posses­ *Witmarsum in Friesland - the birthplace The first few chapters of this book link the sions or food, and with scarcely any money, of Menno Simons Apostolic and Early Church with community for they had lost the little they had when their 21 days - August 10-31, 1983 of goods, non-resistance, persecution and terrified Chinese guide capsized their Escort: Lawrence Klippenstein, martyrdom. These themes are the founda­ makeshift raft. editor and historian, Winnipeg tions of a continuity that followed the history In 1931, at the age of 22, Mia finally of the Hutterites from their beginnings in reached San Francisco. She had a student More details from: Moravia, through to their migration and visa, but was not permitted to work. Menno Travel Service establishment in North America. While these Penniless, while learning a new language .851 Henderson Highway emphases are clear to the reader the tone of and gaining three degrees in it, Mia Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada the book is even, and it does not stray into siinultaneously served hundreds of congrega­ R2K 2L4 Ph. 334-4347 polemics, a possible temptation given the tions with informative talks re - conditions 1983 is "the year of Luther" nature of the history. Part II, deals with Hut­ in Russia. All consequent earnings were terites in Canada, describing the organiza­ faithfully sent to Russia to keep her family tion and development of the colonies in such from starving. The account of these years in areas as agriculture, mechanization, colony particular, is a testimony to the beauty of Mennonitische Rundschau expansion, education. As well, some of the true friendship in times of duress. Microfilmed philosophy behind these structures is After two years of teaching, primarily Ger­ The oldest Mennonite periodical publish­ explained. man, she was not re-hired, due to the impen­ ding war. It was 1939. ed continuously under one name (105 years) Written primarily for use in Hutterite col­ is now available on microfilm. Coordinating ony schools, it is interesting to examine how Once more she was destitute - no work, the microfilming of this periodical was Ken the Hutterites wish to portray their history no home. Systematically, with a believing Reddig, Archivist at the Center for M.B. to their children. Hutterite history receives faith, as she had approached life's problems Studies in Winnipeg. a fair and balanced treatment in this work. to date, Mia prayed to God for a husband, Some I V2 years of effort went into the It is well organized and reads easily. The alerting Him to three essential characters in such a man. project, initially to locate and collate all ex­ bibliography is detailed and the suggested isting copies. Principally the copies came reading list for children is extensive. A 'dif­ The Lord wasted no time in fulfilling her from the Mennonite Historical Library, ficult words' list at the end of each chapter request, precisely, in A. A. DeFehr. Goshen, Indiana; Mennonite Library and is helpful for young readers. An accompa­ During her last illness Mia DeFehr wrote Archives, Newton, Kansas; and the Center nying workbook for pupils is simple and her life-story. Mary Enns drew on this ac­ for M.B. Studies in Winnipeg, Manitoba. straight forward, designed to emphasize im­ count, as did Rev. Gerhard Lohrenz for his After negotiating with several companies portant points. The organization of both the German version of Mia. Through the main to take on the task of microfilming the book and workbook should make this a sources is the same, the latter contains more almost 70,000 pages, University Microfilms reliable teaching aid. As well, it is a concise, historical and anecdotal material which adds of Ann arbor, Michigan was selected to com­ well written overview of Hutterite history for considerable flair and imagination. How plete the project. the interested reader. much of this is due to Mia's own writing, to The microfilming of this periodical now The books are available at the James the first-person account of the Oerman makes generally available also the first 22 Valley Book Centre, Elie, Manitoba ROH book, or to Rev. Lohrenz' interpretive genius years of the periodical, found only in the OHO. cannot here be determined. It does add zest Goshen College and Bethel College historical to an already breath-taking story" libraries. The collection however, is not as Mary M. Enns, Mia, The Story of a yet quite complete. Some 27 separate issues, Remarkable Woman. Winnipeg, Manitoba: and the entire year of 1897, have not been Christian Press, 1981, 175 p., pb., $4.95; also located to date. According to Ken Reddig, hc. Gerhard Lohrenz, Mia, oder Ueber den every effort was made to locate missing Amur in die Freiheit. Winnipeg, Manitoba, copies both in North America and Europe 1981, 178 p., pb. $3.95; also he. Reviewed Book Note without success. Therefore, it was decided by Clara K. Dyck, Winnipeg, Manitoba. This is indeed the "story of a remarkable to microfilm what was available and should .A translation of the book on MB additional copies eventually be located, they woman," as its title emphasizes. history in the Soviet Union written by The Russian Revolution totally destroyed would be added to what has already been Heinrich and Gerbard Woelk is now microfilmed. Mia's stable lifestyle in a prosperous Men­ available in English. The title is A Microfilm copies of the Rundschau may nonite home and community in the Ukraine. Wilderness Journey Glimpses ofthe Men­ now be ordered from University Microfilms, Later, for being the daughter of a "Kulak" nonite Church in Russia 1925-1980. Write 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, (wealthy landowner) she was expelled from to the Heritage Centre for copies. Cost: Michigan, 48106. Ken Reddig, Centre for Medical School. Then, as governess in $10.00 MB Studies, Winnipeg, Man. Moscow, she slept on a large trunk in a room Page 8 Book Reviews (continued) 1981), 150 pp, hardcover, $9.00. Reviewed dians, both within government and without, Berta Bachman, Erinnergungen an by George K. Epp, Winnipeg, Manitoba. were evidently either not interested in hear­ Kasachstan: Erfahrungsbericht Einer Jonathan Wagner is the first Canadian ing about the Nazi danger or too hostile Russlanddeutschen Schriftenmissions ­ scholar to attempt a comprehensive review toward those attempting to point it Verlag, Gladbeck, 1981, Pb., 160 p. of the Nazi movement in Canada. There out ... " (Wagner, p. 121), and in spite of Reviewed by Peter H. Rempel, Neuwied, have been references to the phenomenon, but the depression and the large pool of German West Germany. the serious broad study of this shortlived immigrants from Eastern Europe, who could The book is a lucid and interesting account phenomenon in Canada was still missing. In have been easy prey for an anti-communist of the author's experiences as a young the four chapters of this book, Brothers ideology, Canada in the 1930's was not the woman who was forceably resettled with her Beyond the Sea, Wagner presents evidence soil for a Nazi movement or any other fellow Germans to Siberia during WW II. It and a surprisingly objective analysis of one political extreme. includes a short introduction (20 pages) on aspect of history of the Canadian depression The author has presented us with an ob­ her childhood and youth in the pre-war years which some would rather forget. But jective study of a subject that deserves our period, then the major section (100 pages) we cannot run away from history, and this attention, especially at a time when na­ on the life as resettled German in Siberia dur­ is obviously the author's position, when he tionalism and extremist movements are aga ing the war, and a concluding section (35 attempts to recreate the stage of the depres­ very much in fashion. pages) on the post war experiences. It is one sion era, to enable us to see the events from of the few accounts of the Germans who a distance. On the whole, Wagner's insights Other Books Received were resettled to Siberia at the outset of the are very helpful. Neufeld, Gerhard G. What God Has Done. war rather than before or after it. Chapter one is devoted to the study of the Winnipeg, Manitoba, 1982. Trans. by Church or religious life is mentioned in­ Canadian German community of the 1930's. Margaret Neufeld. pb., 92 p. $8.00. Order frequently in the first two sections but the The author's conclusion that the large from: Marg Neufeld, 152 Barrington, last sections include a longer account (25 number of ethnic German immigrants from Winnipeg, Manitoba R2M 2B2 pages) of the formation of the German Eastern Europe, who had experienced not Klaus, Menno, ed. Growing up Mennonite. Evangelical church in Tselinograd and the only communism on their own skin, but also Stories by the People. Vineland, Ontario, ministry of Pastor Bachmann, the author's the animosity and rejection by a society in 1982. pb., 72 p. $4.50 husband. which they lived as a minority, were very Hildebrand, Jacob. A Backward Glance. Mennonites apparently were included in vulnerable to the enticement of a mystical Crystal City, Manitoba, 1982. pb., 136 p. the gathering of all Tselinograd Germans "Volk-idea" presented in one package with illustrated. $10.00 who formed the Evangelical church there. anti-communist, is not surprising. Lohrenz, Gerhard. The Lost Generation and Mrs. Bachman wrote: "Auch Katholiken Quite successfully Wagner traces in this Other Stories. Winnipeg, Manitoba, 1982. und Sekten Mitglieder waren uns freundlich chapter Hitler's policy toward the Germans pb., 178 p., $9.00 gesonnen und opferten gern ihre Scherflein; in Canada, and the gradual change of the Loewen, Ken and Reimer, Margaret Loewen hauptsache, es waren Deutsche!" (p. 133) mood among Canadian Germans from sym­ Meditations on a Place and a Way of Life. Mennonites are mentioned specifically at pathy to enthusiasm, at least in some A Book of Photographs. Winnipeg, Mani­ several points. quarters. The thunder of "Sieg-Heil," we toba: Hyperion Press, 1982. pb., 128 p. I. A Mennonite widow named Goossen learn, was not restricted to Germany and $14.95 gave 800 rubles toward the enlargement of many parts of Europe; in the depression thir­ Friesen, Bert and Epp, Frank. Partners in the church building in 1956 (p. 135-136). ties it could also be heard in Canadian cities, Service. The Story of MCC Canada 1963­ 2. By 1957 the church had a full choir, a including Winnipeg. 1982. Winnipeg, Manitoba, 1983. large number of whom were Mennonites. The chapter on Canada's pro-Nazis is of Pb., 76 pp. Illustrated with charts. The choir conductor had several song books particular interest. Although it will bring Redekopp, Elsa. Wish and Wonder. A Man­ with "Ziffern" as was the practise among back painful memories for some of the still itoba Village Girl. Winnipeg, Manitoba, Mennonites (p. 139). living actors of that period, after fifty years Reddell Publishing, 1982. pb., 59 p. 3. The choir conductor, probably a Men­ it is definitely time to forgive, but also time Plett, Delbert F. History and Events. nonite (see point 2) was sent to the Supreme for a critical analysis of that inglorious Writings and Maps Pertaining to the Soviet in Moscow in 1957 to complain about period. We cannot benefit from history if we History of the Mennonite Kleine Ge­ the closure of the church building. She had refuse to face our mistakes. Although it is meinde from 1866-1876. Steinbach, Mani­ a brother in Moscow whom she visited on clear that the Mennonite community, with toba. D.F. Plett Farms, Ltd., 1982. this occasion. She obtained permission from its large share in post-1917 immigration from Schulz, Henry. Snowborne. The Siberian the Council of Religious Affairs for the con­ Eastern Europe, was not directly involved in Chronicles of Henry Schulz. Vancouver, gregation to worship in their church and was the political movement, it is nevertheless em­ B.C., Orca Sound Publishing, 1982. pb., promised that steps toward the registration barrassing to read that along with most of 227 p. Hdc. $25.00; pb. $10.00. of the congregation would be taken (p. the German press in Canada, the Men­ Martin, Lynne. Peace Unearth. A Directory 139-140). nonitische Rundschau and Der Bote are men­ of Canadian Peace Organizations with The author was born in 1923 in Asarowka, tioned as papers with a pro-Nazi bias. International Concerns. Winnipeg, a German village south-east of Kharkov. She In his last chapter Wagner discusses the Manitoba, 1983. 250 pp., pb. $6.00, worked in a factory in Voroshilovgrad, was opposition to the movement in Canada and postage included. Order from: MCC resettled to Kasachstan in 1941 with mother the failure of this movement. The author (Manitoba), 1483 Pembina Hwy., Win­ and family, and there worked on a collec­ points out that until 1937 the only serious op­ nipeg, Manitoba, Canada. tive farm at Cherssonowka. She moved to position came from the Canadian Jewish Fast, Gerhard. In den Steppen Siberiens. Tselinograd (Akmolinsk) after World War Congress and from communists, the two St. Catharines, Ontario, 1957. 156 pp., II, and married Pastor Bachmann in 1956. groups most directly threatened by the Na­ pb. $5.00 (remainder of books left by Dr. Later they immigrated to West Germany. tional Socialists. H. Heese, Rosthern, Sask.). [n summary one could conclude from this Note: All titles in above list, or mention­ Jonathan F. Wagner. Brothers Beyond the study, that if the Nazi movement failed in ed in book reviews may be ordered Sea. National Socialism in Canada, Canada, in spite or'the fact that "until late through the Mennonite Heritage Centre. (Waterloo: Wilfred Laurier University Press, 1937 and early 1938, the majority of Cana-